Vortex Stike Eagle 1-6x24 AR-BDC

Recently I completed a 22 long rifle AR build. I used a Nordic upper, Seekins lower, CMC trigger, Midwest rail and a Magpul stock. It's a solid little rifle and runs so smooth. I do both indoor and outdoor shooting. I needed an optic that would focus at close range but also have some magnification. I currently run a 1-6x Razor Gen I on my M4. Since this was a 22 I wasn't about to spend $1600 on glass for it. During Shot Show this year I was introduced to the new Strike Eagle 1-6x optic. I was highly impressed with their budget optic now let's see how long it takes to hit the streets. They stated the summer of 2015.

Just last month I finished my rifle and was ready for some glass. I was able to get my hands on a Strike Eagle and 2in cantilever mount (CM-202). Their mount has a very clean look and is well built. The first thing I was curious about is whether or not this is a true 1x. I had no issues aiming with both eyes open. Very fast to acquire a target with the horse shoe reticle. Next, was will the LED be bright enough for day time use? Over sand at my range in very bright light the LED cannot be seen. At the same time, the reticle lends itself to fast target acquisition so it's not even needed. I was able to see the red LED on the surrounding area and slightly on the target but not on the sand. Next, I got out my shot timer (PAC club timer) to see what my times were compared to my M4 with an Eotech 552. I ran several drills starting from low ready with the safety on. My average time for the Strike Eagle was approx 1.0 second. I had a few runs in .92, .85 but most were right around 1.03, 1.01. With my Eotech my average time was approx .90 so they both are pretty close. Since Im using two similar rifles it was a pretty fair test. Keep in mind I was shooting at 6inch targets. If I used a bigger target I'm sure I could be slightly faster. But, aim small, miss small. When I moved the target out to 50 yards I was able to drill the small dept. shield on the top of the target. That would be next to impossible with a standard red dot.

Future testing will include, mounting it on my M4 and running it out to 600 yards. My local range is only 200 yards. I have to drive 4 hours to really be able to shoot. Overall, I was very impressed with the clarity of the glass and all the features. The windage turret even carries a spare battery.(already used this feature) That's some awesome thinking on their part. I loved the smooth power ring and the reticle wasn’t too busy. So far I've made 3 trips out to the range with this setup. For the money, this is the perfect optic for someone who wants to shoot close quarters as well as long range. I have several buddies that are now waiting to upgrade their red dots after shooting this optic!

As always my optic guy is Doug from Cameraland. Im loving the new store so close to my house. Its going to get expensive.
http://www.cameralandny.com/optics/vortex.pl?page=vortexoptics

Forgot to add. I coated the metal in Cerakote OD Green and Stealth Gray. Awesome finish. Looks factory and holds up excellent.

Nice! Zero it then drop it in the soft grass from Waist high 3 times and see if it has held zero! This is what I want to know! Should not hurt the rifle. Try to hit the scope at least on edge.

Also picked up one from Doug...before project was even finished

Have no complaints at all...so far...

Super clear glass....repeatable clicks......Stoner mount...

300 BLK.....AP lower...Shilen SS 8T tube...I like...

Any updates on this review? Or anyone else have anything to add? Looking at possibly going with this over the SS 1-4.

Anyone have any feeling about the overall durability of the optic?

Yeah, what Jimmy said too.

$330.........money well spent on glass.....

So you've got one? And put it to the test?

I own one, mounted in a Bobro QD mount. I have only babied mine so I don't have any personal durability data to provide. For what I am using it for it's a good value. The glass has a little "tint" to it in my eyes which makes it non crystal clear. can't have it all for $300 I guess.

My buddy at work has one, and he is a big 3 gunner. Has been running it since last summer. He is tough on his gear (throwing in barrels, 300-500 rounds a week shooting, etc.). Overall he has been happy with his. He did have something go "off" inside the scope about two months ago, said the left side looked "fish-eyed" while looking through it. Sent it in on a Monday and had a new one back on Thursday.

That's the kind of information we're looking for. Anyone else? Surely there's someone. It appears Doug can't keep them in stock, so there's got to be someone with an experienced scope.

Great review and info!

Any new info on these? How is the clarity on high power?

I just got one for T & E purposes, I'll post something after I use it for a while. I'm currently testing a Trijicon 1-4, we'll see how it compares to that.

Know nothing about recoilweb or the writer, but here's a review that might be somewhat helpful.

http://www.recoilweb.com/review-vortex-strike-eagle-1-6x-75265.html

The big brown truck just put one on my door step about an hour ago and I have it all mounted up. Looks pretty dam good, seems clear, positive adjustments, like the reticle.

I will get it to the range soon for further diagnosis.

Good deal. I'm ordering in about 2 weeks. On the fence btwn this and the SWFA SS1-4.

I have not seen the SWFA but these are pretty kick ass and offer a bit more power.

Just curious, but why have a 1x power? The only one that I ever looked through, seemed worse than if I was just looking at it with a naked eye.

A wide field of view for quick target acquisition as close ranges.

Thanks.

I have had some range time now and I continue to be impressed with this glass. The 1x makes it super easy to acquire targets and at 6x its clear out to the edges. I could not ask for more from a scope costing twice as much.

The BDC reticle seems to be accurate to 300, thats as far as I can shoot around here.

Man that sounds great. I'm likely going to order one up over the weekend. Pretty much already had my mind made up, but the reinforcement for my thoughts are great.

Stopped by my LGS today. He had a Strike Eagle on display. Walked out with it under my arm. So far I think I'm gonna like it. Definitely like the reticle. Simple, uncluttered. Heavy enough to see easily without illumination. Guess I'll be ordering an Aero mount this weekend and hopefully get it mounted next week sometime. I'll report back when I get some time with it.

To date Ive installed 6 more of these on builds. Everyone was been extremely happy. As far as myself Ive had zero issues and have been extremely happy. I just wish they were easier to find.

That's good to know. I ordered the Aero Precision SPR mount for mine on Saturday. Hopefully get to stretch it's legs next weekend.