| |
|
|
|
Vortex Razor HD 85mm ScopeNew in 2009 Review by Michael and Diane Porter, 2009
Best buy in a high-end scope What if you could get a scope whose optics and ergonomics were in league with the top scopes, and whose price was about half of the ones you were comparing it to? You'd think it was a great value. And you would be probably be thinking about the new Vortex Razor HD 85mm scope, released in late 2009. It shares the best qualities of all the top scopes. Optically, it is among the top few scopes in the world for brightness and sharpness. It employs extra-low dispersion glass (the "HD" in the scope's name), which reduces chromatic aberration. Many high-end scopes report that they use HD glass, but there is usually still a noticeable amount of chromatic aberration. However, when we tested the Vortex Razor, we detected none at all. Images were crisp. The Razor holds its own optically against scopes costing $2300 to $4000. The 85mm objective lens helps the scope achieve its excellent resolution, and yet the manufacturer has held the weight down to a moderate 65.5 ounces. The generous field of view at maximum magnification matches that of the Zeiss Diascope's (60 feet at 1000 yards). We know of no other scope that exceeds or even matches the field of view of these two scopes at 60 power. In body shape, the Razor closely resembles the Kowa Prominar. It has similar dual focus knobs, of outstanding smoothness and precision. The Razor's fine focus has virtually no slack. The gross focus has a slight degree of slack (as do nearly all scopes) but is easy to turn and smoother than some that cost far more. The Vortex actually outdoes the Kowa in that the Vortex is rubberized in the central areas, where the human hand is most likely to contact the scope, unlike the Kowa's all-metallic surface.
The screw-out eyecup has no indents, but one does not feel the need, as the motion is finely tuned. It twists out smoothly to exactly the desired degree. It is easy to turn, to an infinitely variable degree, and yet it holds its position due to friction. This is very well done. Mechanically it's the equal of the best-made scopes, with impeccable engineering in the zoom mechanism and other moving parts. The Razor is built for heavy field use — well made, sturdy and with good build quality. It looks as if it would withstand a lot of knocks. At present the Vortex Razor is available only in the angled 85mm version. It is sold with the 20-60x zoom eyepiece included. Specifications:
Weatherproofing The Vortex Razor is waterproof, with tight O-ring seals. Argon purging prevents condensation on internal lenses, so you get to enjoy clear views even when the termperature changes suddenly. Included with the scope
|
|
Birdwatching Dot ComPlease call us toll free 800-779-7256 for advice on choosing scopes or other birding products. Images and text are copyright 2009 Michael and Diane Porter. |
