Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 Review: A Comprehensive First-Person Perspective
When it comes to hitting your mark from a distance, having the right optics is essential. After spending some time researching, I settled on the Vortex Viper PST II for my shooting needs, especially at long range. In this Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 review, I’ll walk you through my experience with this riflescope, covering everything from its quality to its performance, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you. Let’s jump right in.
Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 Specs
- Magnification Range 5-25x
- Objective Lens Diameter 50 mm
- Focal Plane First Focal Plane
- Weight 31.2 oz
- Length 15.79 in
- Field of view at 100 yds 24.1 ft / 4.8 ft
- Total Elevation Adjustment 70 MOA / 20 MRAD
- Total Windage Adjustment 35 MOA / 10 MRAD
- Illumination Yes
- Tube Diameter 30mm
- Zero Stop Yes
- Parallax adjustment 25 yds to infinity
- Eye Relief 3.4 in
Specifications and Background of the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50
The Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 is a scope from Vortex Optics, a company known for its range of sport optics. This model offers a magnification range of 5-25x, making it suitable for both close and long-range shots. It has a large 50-millimeter objective lens for clear optimal viewing.
The scope is equipped with a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle that remains accurate across all zoom levels. It provides an eye relief of 3.4 inches and a field of view of 24.1-4.8 feet at 100 yards.
The 30mm tube houses tactical-style turrets with a 1/4 MOA adjustment graduation. You can adjust the parallax setting from 25 yards to infinity, and the scope enables a maximum windage adjustment of 35 MOA and elevation adjustment of 70 MOA. Each rotation on the turret corresponds to a 25 MOA adjustment.
Despite its features, the scope maintains a compact form with a length of 15.79 inches and a weight of 31.2 oz. It includes a hard Zero Stop, and an illuminated reticle for low-light conditions.
The scope uses proprietary XR Fully Multi-Coated lenses for clarity and to prevent glare. It also has a hard-anodized finish for durability.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s jump straight into the review.
Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 Features
1 Aircraft grade aluminum
The aircraft grade aluminum scope body is sturdy and has ArmorTek coating to keep your scope scratch free. The 30mm tube provides enough windage and elevation adjustment to reach out to long distances.
2 Target style elevation turret
The exposed target style turrets have a zero stop built in.
3 Parallax and illumination adjustment
Adjust the parallax from 25 yards out to infinity and adjust the brightness of the reticle on the left side turret.
4 Exposed Windage Turret
Easily dial windage adjustments from the target style windage turret.
5 Magnification dial
The magnification dial is missing a throw lever for quick adjustments.
Review of the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50
Using the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 felt really comfortable, thanks to its ergonomic design. The focus adjustment knob made it easy for me to get everything sharp and clear. The scope’s single-piece tube also added to its user-friendly feel. While the turret didn’t feel like it’d be the best on the market, it was functional enough for practical use. This rifle scope came with cool extras like a sunshade and lens cloth, which I appreciate. I also liked how this scope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, it just boosted my confidence about its durability.
One of the standout features of the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 is its magnification range. With the ability to adjust from 5x to 25x, this scope offers a lot of flexibility. The lower end of the range is great for tracking moving targets or shooting at closer distances. On the other hand, the 25x magnification comes into its own when you’re shooting at long-range targets. It allows for detailed views and precise target acquisition, which is important for long-range shooting.
Having used top-tier scopes like the Vortex Razor HD Gen II, the clarity of the Viper PST II surprised me. The glass performed well up to 800 yards, providing clear and detailed images. Beyond 1,000 yards, there was a slight dip in clarity, but considering the price point, it’s a commendable performer. During my sessions, I noticed a bit of haziness on distant targets, but it didn’t significantly affect my ability to make accurate shots.
During my hunts, the Leupold Mark 5HD’s First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle proved to be amazing. The ability to range targets at any magnification was particularly handy during long-range shots. Its lines stayed accurate no matter how much I zoomed in or out and I was able to hit my targets consistently.
Also, I liked the functional and detailed hold points on this scope. It made it suitable for the holdover technique to take better shots and I could adjust for bullet drop and wind drift without messing with the scope’s turrets. It saved time and helped me stay focused on the target.
As for the Vortex PST Gen II, its illuminated reticle wasn’t overly bright for daytime use but was just right for shooting in low-light conditions. This scope comes with a fully multi-coated XR lens, which increases light transmission by applying multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. This gave me a good amount of clarity and contrast for my dusk hunts. The only minor gripe I had was that a tad bit of the numbers on the illumination dial were illuminated unintentionally, but this didn’t significantly impact performance.
The Viper PST II did a good job when it came to tracking and zeroing. The clicks on the elevation turret were accurate. They felt a bit soft until they hit the 4 MOA mark, then they got really sharp. The scope’s revolution indicators helped me keep track of adjustments while the Zero Stop prevented it from going past zero. I loved how I could always go back to zero accurately.
When it comes to value, the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 gives you a lot for what you pay. Packed with features like the first focal plane reticle, impeccable clarity in its optics, and effortless parallax adjustment, this riflescope offers exceptional value. The performance and quality it delivers justify the cost. It’s a smart choice for long-range shooters looking for reliability and precision without overspending.
Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 Pros and Cons
- Great scope tracking
- Outstanding warranty
- Great all around performance for the money
- No magnification throw lever
Report Card | ||
Reliability | Very reliable and durable scope, with great tracking. | A+ |
Glass | This is not the nicest glass, but it gest the job done out to 1000 yds. | B+ |
Reticle | MOA or MRAD reticle available with simple drop and wind sub tension. | A |
Ergonomics | The scope is missing a throw lever, but everything else feels good. | A- |
Value | Great value for the price. This scope will get you on target at long range for a great price. | A+ |
Our Grade
A
Reviewed by Dave Chesson
Reader’s Grade
A
Based on 10 Reviews
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Final Thoughts on the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50
In conclusion, the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 stands out as the top choice, ranking 1st in my best 1000 yard scopes article for its outstanding performance and versatility in long-range shooting. It excels in many areas, like its clear glass quality and functional reticle. The quality you get for the price is excellent, making it a solid pick for both new and experienced shooters. If you’re someone who is looking for a reliable, high-performing riflescope, the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 won’t disappoint.
FAQs
Yes, the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring durability and reliability even in rugged conditions. The hard-anodized finish further enhances its resilience against wear and tear.
Yes, absolutely. With its magnification range of 5-25x and features like the First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, clear optics, and functional turret adjustments, the Viper PST II 5-25×50 is well-suited for long-range shooting and precision targeting.
The Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 features an illuminated reticle that performs well in low-light conditions, providing adequate brightness without overwhelming the shooter. The fully multi-coated XR lens improves light transmission, making it suitable for dusk or dawn hunts.
Yes, the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50 comes with the Vortex VIP Warranty. This means that if anything goes wrong, Vortex Optics will repair or replace the riflescope at no charge to you. This warranty is valid for the lifetime of the scope.
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About Dave Chesson
Dave Chesson is prior Navy with a specialty in international arms dealing for the US government across multiple countries. Having traveled the world and abided by ATF and ITAR, Roy has a unique background in legal as well as practical capabilities of weapons deployment and use.
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Great scope for 22LR competitions out to 400yd.