Introduction:
The Vortex Viper HS 4-16×50 is easy to get behind and quick to get on target. Vortex rifle scopes have assembled a loyal following by offering quality, features, and versatility associated with higher priced rifle scopes, and the Viper HS line is no exception.
Vortex Viper HS 4-16×50 BDC
Technical Data:
Magnification: 4-16x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Exit Pupil Diameter: 12.5-3.125 mm
Field of View at 1000 yd: 27.4-7.4 ft.
Tube Size: 30 mm
Turret Style: Capped
Adjustment Graduation: .25 MOA
Max Elevation Adjustment: 50 MOA
Max Windage Adjustment: 50 MOA
Parallax Setting: 50 Yds. – ∞
Focal Plane: Second
Eye Relief: 4 in
Lens Type: XD Lens Elements
Coated Lenses: XR Fully Multi-coated/ArmorTek
Argon Purging
Length: 13.7 in
Weight: 20.4 oz.
Mechanics and Design:
The shockproof Vortex Viper HS rifle scopes are manufactured from a single piece of aircraft grade aluminum for a light weight and rock solid scope housing. The 30mm tube is argon purged, which is less effected by a rapid temperature change than nitrogen and being a larger molecule is more resistant to escaping any leak. The Viper HS has large finger click adjustable, capped windage and elevation turrets. All turrets and adjustments are large and knurled for easy manipulation even with gloves. The Viper HS is also equipped with a Zero Reset feature. Once the scope is zeroed, the graduations on turrets can also be set back to zero simply by lifting the top of the turret and turning it back to zero. The Viper HS incorporates Vortex’s Precision Force Spring System which uses premium components in the erector spring system for steadfast repeatability and consistent, positive adjustments and provides great tactile and audible confirmation of any manipulation. The Viper HS is equipped with a side mounted parallax adjustment, adjustable from 50 yds. to ∞. The magnification is quickly and easily adjusted using Vortex’s Precision Glide Erector System. The power ring is an etched raised incline to allow the shooter to determine the magnification setting or make adjustments while staying behind the scope and the MAG-View Fiber Optic marker makes for a quick easy reference for the magnification setting.
Optics:
The Vortex Viper HS uses Vortex’s XD (extra-low dispersion) glass and XR (anti-reflective) coatings. This powerful combination provides peak light transmission and delivers razor sharp images, pristine resolution, and bright, vibrant colors edge to edge. External lenses are protected from dust, dirt, and smudges with ultra hard ArmorTek. Chemically bonded to the glass, ArmorTek provides a stain proof surface and protects the optical system from abrasion, oil, and corrosive salts from fingerprints. The Viper HS has a comfortable eye relief of 4 in, making it very easy to get behind this scope.
Packaging and Accessories:
The Vortex Viper HS comes in a printed cardboard box with nice presentation. The scope is protected in a plastic bag and supported by foam inserts. The scope also comes packaged with a sunshade, a micro-fiber cleaning cloth embossed with the vortex emblem, and a Vortex pin. If you purchase a Dead-Hold BDC reticle you will also receive a decal that may be used to label the graduations on your scope using Vortex’s Long Range Ballistics Calculator.
Optional Accessories:
Vortex Optics has a multitude of accessories for its Viper HS line. These include a Switchview Throw Lever to ease changes in magnification, scope rings, a bubble level, scope covers, flip up covers, cleaning kits and mounting equipment.
Pros:
Precision equipment that works great in low light. Quality and features associated with higher priced rifle scopes. Lifetime no fault warranty with a company that stands behind its products.
Cons:
Not illuminated. Low variety of reticles.
Conclusion:
The Vortex Viper HS (video) is an affordable quality rifle scope with features that can benefit any shooter. The glass and precision of the Viper HS are great for low light and long distance shooting. The Vortex Viper HS is a versatile scope at a reasonable price.
