Searching for the best Vortex scope for 50 BMG? When it comes to harnessing the great power of the .50 Browning Machine Gun, a quality scope that matches its immense capability. Vortex riflescopes are suitable companions that complement the rifle. Having the right Vortex scope calibrated for the .50 BMG leads to more accuracy and power for an exhilarating shooting or hunting session.
The .50 BMG is famous for its power reaching mind-blowing ranges. In this review, we delve into the best Vortex scopes for .50 BMG purposefully calibrated to endure the punishing recoil and adverse conditions associated with shooting with this beast.
Best Vortex Scope For 50 BMG
Let’s get straight into the models:
1) Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Riflescope
You should get the Viper HST if you are looking for a versatile unit with a litany of features for shooting accuracy. The splendid 6-24x magnification suits various ranges from close to long.
The VMR-1 reticle is another reason the scope shines at long ranges. The reticle doesn’t compromise on target acquisition, even in windy conditions or when taking down fast-moving objects.
Coming in an aircraft-grade aluminum housing, the riflescope is extremely durable for standing up to anything you throw at it. The tube is also waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, implying it will always perform regardless of how murky the conditions get.
The lenses are top-notch with a full multi-coating that revolutionizes light transmission and shields against scratch and dirt. Images delivered are crystal-clear and bright regardless of the time of shooting.
The parallax adjustment provides fantastic optical performance and can be adjusted from 40 yards to infinity. The turrets are easy to zero and have MOA adjustments.
Features
- 30mm one-piece aluminum tube
- Forgiving eyebox
- 4x zoom range
- Tactical turrets provide great repeatability
- All-weather performance
- VMR-1 reticle
- Hard anodized exterior
- XR full multicoating
Pros
- Generous amount of eye relief
- Superb light collection
- Top-notch build quality
- Insane precision and accuracy
Cons
- Bulky
2) Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm Riflescope
Another high-performance riflescope for the .50 BMG is the Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm. It is configured in a 30mm tube with a hard anodized finish providing a robust hunting riflescope that will endure anything mother nature brings on.
The accuracy and reliability of this riflescope is raved by many .50 BMG users. The glass clarity is impeccable. Besides having extra-low dispersion glass that maintains a clear picture across all power settings, the scope also harbors fully multi-coated lenses that minimize glare and maximize light transmission.
The image will not suffer from haziness because of the 50mm focal lens. Even when shooting in bright sunlight, there will be no distortion.
Another facet that stands out is the decent adjustments with positive and audible clicks. The capped turrets allow quick re-indexing to zero after sighting in. The precision force spring system is a major highlight that allows maximum turret repeatability without risking performance.
The Viper PA also smokes it when it comes to all-weather protection. The lenses are O-ring sealed and argon purged to prevent impurities like moisture and dirt from damaging the scope as well as your day.
The Armortek finish on the lenses shields from scratches, oil, and dirt. Also, the lens glide smoothly across all zoom levels courtesy of the precision glide erector system.
Features
- Side knob for parallax adjustment
- Precision force spring system
- Multi-proof technology
- Armortek coated lenses
- Precision glide erector system
- Wide 50mm objective lens
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 30mm tube made of top-notch materials
Pros
- Easy to zero
- Crystal clear glass
- Unbeatable durability
Cons
- Short eye relief
- Non-locking turrets
3) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Riflescope
Another well-packaged .50 BMG loyal companion is the Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm riflescope. Harboring a powerful magnification and a high-grade optical system, the Razor HD goes above and beyond to ensure you have clear views of the target in all situations.
The XR full multi-coating on the lenses amplifies light collection for unmatched clarity and low-light performance. Plasma Tech is applied for unsurpassed coating durability and performance.
It doesn’t end there; the glass has XD elements to deliver crisp images with top-shelf color fidelity and resolution.
Another parameter that cements the scope as excellent in low light is the illuminated reticle. It has eleven brightness settings with an off position between each setting.
Furthermore, the scope is built like a tank. Aircraft-grade aluminum is a construction material that reveals its resilience and durability. The matte exterior is hard anodized to keep abrasion at a minimum.
The L-Tec turrets provide easy, quick, and precise windage and elevation adjustments and have a locking function to prevent unintentional adjustments. The zero-stop system provides a hard return to zero.
Also worth noting is the external rotation indicator that gives a visual and tactile reference of the elevation turret rotations.
Features
- Side focus parallax adjustment knob
- L-Tec turrets with a locking mechanism
- Lenses are fully multi-coated with XR
- Matte anodized finish
- Erector tube system to withstand stress
- Weatherproof and shockproof
- 34mm single-piece tube
- Glass-etched, illuminated reticle with eleven levels
- Index-matched lenses for color correction
Pros
- Phenomenal glass quality
- The reticle is spot on
- Turre adjustments are great
- Accuracy is in a class of its own
Cons
- Heavy
- The zero-stop system is a bit mushy
4) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm Riflescope
The Razor HD will help you push the potential of the .50 BMG to great levels. The magnification is at 6-36x, perfect for precision shooting or hunting at intermediate to long distances.
The scope is durably made, incorporating weather resistance for long life, even under heavy usage. The exterior lenses have Armortek covering, which is a pro when it comes to fighting dirt, oil, debris, and scratches.
The durability is also secured by the hard anodized finish that counters corrosion unfairly, ensuring that nothing ruins your moment.
In addition, it uses the L-tec+ zero system that makes zeroing a cinch. It also facilitates more travel once it has been set. The external rotation indicator ensures you are up to tabs with the position of turret rotations.
Apart from that, the riflescope is outfitted with XR fully multi-coated lenses that optimize light-gathering power resulting in brighter and clearer visuals. The locking side illumination features eleven brightness settings to suit various lighting situations.
The reticle is situated on the first focal plane, adjusting as per the zoom level. It is sandwiched between two layers of glass for longer life.
Features
- Argon purged and o-ring sealed
- Designed with fully multi-coated lenses of XR caliber
- L-Tec+ turrets with a zero-reset feature
- HD optical system
- A glass-etched reticle that is illuminated and found on the first focal plane
- Armortek-treated exterior lenses
- 5 inches of eye relief
- Stealth shadow finish that is anodized
Pros
- Outstanding optical finesse
- Easy to set up
- Accurate and highly functional turrets
- Consistent zeroing
Cons
- Price tag may be a barrier for some
5) Vortex Viper HS LR 6-24x50mm Riflescope
Another product that gets brownie points is the Vortex Viper HS LR 6-24x50mm riflescope. This is a powerful, long-range. .50 BMG scope that you will appreciate.
The riflescope has been designed to survive abuse and exposure to harsh conditions as it is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Sighting and zeroing in on targets are no hassle, thanks to the capped windage turret and target-style elevation turret. The CRS Zero Stop ensures you always have zero by preventing rotations below your zero point.
The extra-low dispersion glass increases resolution and color fidelity, while the fully multi-coated optics boost light transmission for clear and brighter images.
You can take on a target at practically any distance, as the 6-24x magnification is there to make that possible. The 50mm objective lens ensures your images are always clear, even at high magnifications.
The precision glide erector system ensures that components in the zoom lens mechanism are working flawlessly and helps you make adjustments on the fly without wasting time. The fast-focus eyepiece keeps the reticle in sharp focus, making target acquisition easy and fast.
Features
- Hard anodized finish
- 50mm objective lens
- Side focus
- Capped windage and tactical elevation turrets
- CRS Zero Stop
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Precision force spring system
- Precision glide erector mechanism
Pros
- The glass renders crystal-clear views
- Sufficient eye relief
- Superb reticle
Cons
- Hefty
6) Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm Riflescope
Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm Riflescope is a powerhouse that hits all the marks when it comes to benefits and value. Featuring a 34mm tube diameter that allows plenty of room for turret travel, the Venom harbors the RevStop Zero System for an easy, quick, and reliable return to zero.
The turrets are exposed and have a tactical style. Accurate, easy-to-read, and fast adjustments are yours as a result.
The throw facilitates easy transitions from 5x to 25x so that you are always ready to make a kill no matter how far or close the target is. The EBR-7C reticle provides accurate holds across all magnifications and is located on the first focal plane.
On top of that, the scope is outfitted with fully multi-coated lenses. The result is excellent light transmission requisite for the clarity and brightness of the image.
The quality of the Venom is outstanding. It brags of a rugged outer layer that is cast from aircraft-grade aluminum and is anodized. It will do well in grim weather conditions without skipping a beat because it is 100% waterproof and fogproof.
The rugged aluminum structure makes the unit shockproof and hence can take a beating. Another point for durability is the glass-etched reticle and Armortek treatment on the lenses.
Features
- Tactical-style exposed turrets
- Fast-focusing design
- RevStop Zero system provides a solid and reliable return to zero
- Handy EBR-2C reticle
- A throw lever can be installed to facilitate seamless power alterations
- Full multi-coating with anti-reflective properties
- 34mm tube diameter
- The tube is nitrogen purged and sealed for weatherproofing
Pros
- Good price without lacking in quality
- The adjustments are incredibly precise
- Very functional for holdovers
- Top-grade lenses with optimum clarity
Cons
- The zero-stop is too spongy and difficult to install
7) Vortex Golden Eagle 15-60x52mm Riflescope
Another prime option for the .50 BMG is the Vortex Golden Eagle 15-60x52mm riflescope. Using the riflescope is a real treat thanks to its captivating features that are well received.
The first stand out is the lens, which is covered with XR fully multi-coating. The proprietary coatings deliver clear, bright, and sharp images, even when lighting is not ideal.
The extra-low dispersion components perfect the resolution and color fidelity contribution to the crispness and quality of the image.
A hard anodized finish, combined with the waterproof and fogproof inclusions, maintain the durability and top performance of the scope even when used in harsh conditions for extended periods.
The side focus eliminates parallax errors, while the turrets provide consistent tracking performance. The second focal plane reticle is fine and maximizes precision when handling long-range targets.
Features
- 15 to 60x power range
- XR fully multi-coated optics
- 9 inches of eye relief
- Hard anodized black finishing
- Extra-low dispersion glass amplifies resolution
- Extra-fine resolution turret
- Eyepiece has a quick focus design
Pros
- Adjustments are extremely crisp
- Bright and clear image delivery
- The reticle is fantastic
- Well-constructed with top-grade materials
Cons
- Clarity deteriorates at maximum power
8) Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-18x44mm Riflescope
Vortex Crossfire II is another gem that qualifies as one of the best Vortex scopes for .50 BMG. The advanced optical system is a great draw card. With a full multi-coating, the lens produces clear and bright images no matter the time of day.
The riflescope also features an adjustable objective lens that deals with parallax errors and a fast-focus eyepiece that focuses the reticle to enable quick target acquisition.
The tube is built from sturdy aluminum and is sealed and nitrogen purged on the inside to ensure that moisture and foreign matter stay far away. The turrets are capped for impact resistance. They are zero-resettable for great repeatability after sighting in,
Also, the outer part of the scope is hard anodized to provide a low-glare surface that is not easily seen by the target. This is essential if the target in the kill zone is intelligent and can be easily spooked.
The 6-18x magnification is impressive, making the scope suitable for shooting at various distances. You will always be in position regardless of how far the target is.
Features
- An integrated sunshade for glare reduction leading to image clarity
- 44mm objective lens
- Capped resettable turrets
- Adjustable objective lens
- Fast-focusing design for speedy locking on the target
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Hard anodized outer
Pros
- Super clear reticle
- Forgiving eyebox
- Smooth rotations for the turret
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- High magnification could lead to a smaller field of view
9) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Riflescope
This is a first focal plane riflescope that is highly versatile thanks to the 5-25x magnification. The splendid magnification is complemented by the 50mm objective lens diameter that collects plenty of light from the surroundings.
The lens benefits from the XR full multi-coating and Armortek treatment, allowing sufficient light gathering and repelling oil, scratches, and dirt.
Laser-etched turrets have a zero-stop function that makes it easy to go back to the original zero after making adjustments. It also comes with a fiber optic rotation indicator that helps you keep tabs on the position of the turrets.
Durability-wise, the scope doesn’t disappoint. It cements the reputation of Vortex producing top-notch scopes that are long-lasting as it is honed from aircraft-grade aluminum.
It is further enhanced by the O-ring seals and argon purging that grant the riflescope waterproof and fogproof for resilience and effectiveness in adverse weather conditions.
The reticle is illuminated for perfect visibility in low lighting. There are ten brightness settings with an off position between each level for more convenience.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass increases resolution and color faithfulness
- Sealed and purged with argon for weatherproofing
- Illuminated reticle with multiple intensity levels
- Laser-etched turrets with a zero-stop feature
- XR fully multi-coated optics
- Glass-etched reticle
- Versatile 5-25x magnification
- Wide 56mm objective lens
Pros
- Image rendition is unmatched
- Exceptional weather resistance
- Sturdy build for flawless performance and long-term use
- Reticle illumination
Cons
- Heavy
- It may be an overkill for newbies who don’t require advanced features
10) Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm Riflescope
We complete our in-depth review of the best Vortex scopes for .50 BMG with the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm riflescope. Its wealth of features make it a solid investment for any .50 BMG shooter looking to hone their shooting prowess.
The extravagant 5-25x zoom is easy to adjust to suit the prevailing condition using the throw lever, which is part of the scope’s design. This makes your shooting experience easier and more successful, with no shots fired going to waste.
The scope has a robust tube engineering and lens coating that ensures resilience and durability, granting power for the scope to withstand rugged conditions.
Like other Vortex scopes, it is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum. The tube is also waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for relentless performance in the demanding conditions of shooting and hunting.
The lenses are fully multi-coated and treated with Armortek for maximum light collection and scratch resistance, respectively. Supplementing the A-grade lenses is the extra-low dispersion glass that improves resolution and color fidelity resulting in crisp images of the target.
Along with that, the Strike Eagle is designed with turrets with a locking function to deter unwanted adjustments that could affect accuracy. The turrets provide easy-to-read, fast, and accurate adjustments for windage and elevation. A side focus adjustment eliminates parallax and maximizes image focus.
Features
- A throw lever for instant zoom modifications
- Glass-etched reticle for more durability and reliability
- O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged
- Recoil and impact resistant
- Locking turrets for prevention of accidental adjustments
- Full multi-coating on the lenses boosts light collection
- XD elements on the glass
- 34mm tube diameter
- Eye relief of 3.7 inches
Pros
- Zeroing is a piece of cake
- Solid and sturdy
- Clear and bright glass
Cons
- It can be heavy for some users
See Also
- Best Vortex Scope for 338 Lapua
- Best Vortex Scope For 308 Bolt Action
- Best Vortex Scope For Henry 45-70
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Vortex Scope For 50 BMG
Durability
A scope that cannot stand up to challenging conditions is as good as no scope. Ensure the scope you’re eyeing is built from tough materials like aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure it withstands rigorous activity.
Reticle
A well-designed reticle implies better illumination. There are various reticle configurations to choose from. Mil-dot reticles are commonly used for shooting in poorly lit environments. A BDC or Duplex reticle is suitable for hunting at long ranges. If you are varmint hunting, a finer crosshair is handy.
Lens Quality
The best Vortex scopes for .50 BMG have top-grade lenses with appropriate lens coating. The lens should be fully multi-coated to maximize light collection to optimize brightness and clarity. Low or extra-low dispersion lenses minimize color fringing with better resolution and color fidelity.
Eyepiece
The eyepiece should be properly angled in the scope. scopes with fast-focusing mechanisms help focus targets easily.
Tube Size
Tubes with a large diameter enhance the adjustment range for far-away targets while also enhancing the durability of the scope. Therefore, you need a scope with a 30mm tube or 34mm as these are suitable for varying weather conditions.
See Also
FAQs On The Best Vortex Scope For 50 BMG
1) What is the effective range of a .50 BMG?
The .50 BMG is a powerful cartridge used primarily in heavy machine guns and sniper rifles. Its effective range can go beyond 1500 yards and even reach 2000 meters in the hands of skilled shooters.
Bear in mind that the rifle’s effective range boils down to some factors, such as the shooting arena and angle.
2) Is a special required to handle the recoil of large rounds?
Yes. You will need a scope specifically tailored for the .50 BMG recoil and made to handle heavy recoils. This is because handling such recoil can be more difficult compared to small-caliber weapons.
3) What is the best sniper scope for a 50 cal BMG?
If I was considering a sniper scope from Vortex I’d probably go with a Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm, for its great FFP illuminated reticle, outstanding optical resolution, and durability. If I was to consider any other brand I’d probably take the Nightforce NX8 4-32X50mm which stands out for its durability and its tried and proven effectiveness on the field.
Conclusion
Vortex stands strong in the optics sector because it pays attention to detail, ensuring that its rifle scopes give excellent optics and durability, making them the best for the 50 caliber BMG cartridge. We hope this review has helped you find a Vortex scope to pair with your .50 BMG. There will be no regrets with any of them.
See Also