Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane Review

The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane

As someone who’s spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen my fair share of rifle scopes, from budget-friendly options to high-end optics that cost more than my first car. The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane sits squarely in that affordable range, promising versatility for close-to-medium range engagements. I’ll admit, I approached it with a healthy dose of skepticism, expecting compromises in glass quality and overall durability at this price point.

My journey to the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane began with a need for a reliable, lightweight optic for my lever-action .357 Magnum carbine. I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank but could still deliver acceptable performance for hunting whitetail in dense woodland, where shots are typically under 100 yards. I considered the Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm and the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9x40mm, but ultimately chose the Vortex due to its reputation for solid construction and the Vortex VIP warranty. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the scope’s compact size and surprisingly robust feel.

The anodized finish looked clean and durable, and the turrets had a satisfying click. My initial thought was, “This doesn’t feel like a $129 scope.” I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane took place at my local shooting range, followed by a weekend deer hunt in the Allegheny National Forest. The range session was crucial for zeroing the scope and getting a feel for its adjustments. The windage and elevation turrets, while capped, provided positive and repeatable clicks, each representing 1/4 MOA.

I tested the scope in both bright sunlight and overcast conditions. Image clarity was decent, though noticeably less crisp than higher-end optics. I was pleasantly surprised by the generous eye relief, even at the higher magnification settings. One minor issue I encountered was the stiffness of the magnification ring, which required a bit of effort to turn, especially with gloves on.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve subjected it to various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and temperatures ranging from below freezing to moderately warm. The scope has maintained its zero consistently, even after being bumped around in my rifle case and enduring the recoil of my .357 Magnum.

Cosmetically, the anodized finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear despite being exposed to brush and occasional impacts. I’ve cleaned the lenses regularly with a lens pen and microfiber cloth, and the coatings seem to be resistant to scratches and smudges. Compared to my previous experiences with budget-friendly scopes, the Vortex Crossfire II has outperformed them in terms of both durability and optical clarity.

Breaking Down the Features of Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane

Specifications

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane boasts several key specifications that contribute to its versatility and performance.

• Magnification: 2-7x allows for flexible use from close quarters to medium ranges. This makes it suitable for various hunting and shooting scenarios.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm provides a good balance of light gathering and compact size. This makes the optic suitable for various lighting conditions.
• Tube Diameter: The 1-inch tube offers a standard mounting platform. This allows for compatibility with a wide variety of rings and bases.
• Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP) ensures the reticle size remains constant throughout the magnification range. This makes it ideal for ranging at a specific magnification.
• Eye Relief: 3.9-4.7 inches provides a comfortable and safe viewing distance. This reduces the risk of “scope bite” from recoil.
• Field of View: 12.6-42 ft at 100 yds offers a wide field of view at lower magnifications. This allows for quicker target acquisition.
• Adjustment Click Value: 1/4 MOA provides precise adjustments for sighting in. This allows for fine-tuning accuracy.
• Total Adjustment Range: 60 MOA for both windage and elevation allows for significant adjustments. This is important for different rifle setups and ammunition types.
• Parallax Setting: Fixed at 100 yards. This ensures the target and reticle are on the same focal plane at 100 yards.
• Length: 11.3 inches contributes to its compact and lightweight design. This helps reduce the overall weight of the rifle.
• Weight: 14.3 oz makes it relatively lightweight. This is ideal for carrying in the field for extended periods.
• Construction: Aircraft-grade aluminum ensures durability and resistance to recoil. This provides long-lasting performance.
• Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated lenses enhance light transmission and image clarity. This offers better visibility in low-light conditions.
• Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof: These features make it suitable for use in harsh environmental conditions. This makes it reliable in tough field conditions.
• Vortex employs an ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating which protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt. This maintains optical clarity for longer.

Performance & Functionality

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane performs admirably for its price point. Its accuracy is commendable, allowing for consistent groupings at various distances. The scope’s relatively generous eye relief adds to the comfortable shooting experience, even with heavier recoiling rifles.

While the glass quality isn’t on par with high-end optics, it offers decent clarity and brightness, especially during daylight hours. One area that could use improvement is the stiffness of the magnification ring, which can be challenging to adjust quickly, especially with gloves. Overall, the Vortex Crossfire II meets and even exceeds expectations for a scope in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Vortex Crossfire II features a streamlined design that balances aesthetics with functionality. The anodized aluminum construction gives it a solid and durable feel without adding excessive weight. The capped turrets offer a clean, uncluttered look and protect the adjustments from accidental changes.

The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle adjustments to suit individual eyesight. The scope’s compact size makes it a good match for smaller rifles and carbines, maintaining a balanced overall feel.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vortex Crossfire II is built to last, thanks to its rugged construction and high-quality materials. The aircraft-grade aluminum tube can withstand recoil and impacts, ensuring consistent performance over time.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a lens pen and microfiber cloth. The waterproof and fogproof design minimizes the risk of internal condensation or damage from moisture.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane does not come with a vast array of accessories, but it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and bases due to its standard 1-inch tube diameter. Many users choose to upgrade the mounting system to a quick-detach (QD) setup for added versatility.

The scope itself is not designed for extensive customization, but its simple and effective design means that most users will find it perfectly adequate for their needs.

Pros and Cons of Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane

Who Should Buy Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane?

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane is perfect for hunters seeking an affordable and reliable optic for short-to-medium range engagements. It’s also a great choice for recreational shooters, rimfire enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a durable and versatile scope without breaking the bank.

This product is not ideal for long-range precision shooting or users who demand the highest levels of optical clarity. Those who regularly shoot in extremely low-light conditions may also want to consider a scope with a larger objective lens or illuminated reticle. Must-have accessories include a quality set of scope rings and a lens cleaning kit.

Conclusion on Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane

In summary, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope, 1in Tube, Second Focal Plane is an excellent value proposition. It delivers a solid blend of performance, durability, and versatility at a price point that’s hard to beat. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive scopes, it gets the job done reliably and effectively.

The price is definitely justified given its performance, features, and the added peace of mind offered by the Vortex VIP warranty. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, all-around rifle scope. If you’re in the market for a reliable optic that won’t break the bank, give the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm a serious look. You might be surprised at just how much performance you can get for your money!