Rifle Scopes Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

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Mar 26, 2012
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#1
I Have a Vortex 4-16x50 SFP PST that I got a year ago after Vortex let me upgrade from a crossfire that was unpleasant to use at best. It's very well made, but a few have been saying that the clarity isn't as good as the 6-24 PST among others. The main reason I got the lower power was I thought it might have slightly better optical clarity because of my bad experience with over powered low end scopes. This is by far the most expensive scope I've ever owned so I really don't have enough experience to judge the clarity. It's alot more clear than other scopes I've had, but that don't mean jack. I am aware of a few negative comparisons done including the one by jrob300. Anyone willing to share their own personal experience with how the 4-16 PST compares with other scopes optically would be greatly appreciated.
 
#2
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

4-16 PST vs. NF NXS 12-42x56 => NF
4-16 PST vs. NF BR 8-32x56 => NF
4-16 PST vs. Swarovski 3-12 => PST
4-16 PST vs. Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40 => PST
4-16 PST vs. 2.5-10 PST => 4-16
4-16 PST vs. 4x24 Hensoldt => Hensoldt

All these comparisons are side by side at varying times of year and multiple outings for each. I am not sure on the swarovski model but it did not impress me particularly. All comparisons are based on my eye and things such at definition, clarity, brightness, etc.

I will also be able to compare it to a 5-25 S&B soon but I doubt the PST would fare particularly well:)
 
#4
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

Yes, thank you for that info! I'm somewhat shocked that you felt it looked better than any of those. I haven't found a great deal of comparisons on the net, but all the ones I have found on the 4-16 model and only the 4-16 model were bad. Are you using an FFP or SFP 4-16 in you comparisons?
 
#5
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

i have both the 4-16 and 6-24. to my eye there is not a seconds worth of diffrence between them. if i had to get rid of one of them the 6-24 would go first. that has nothing to do with the glass, but for my shooting 4-16 fits my needs alot better
 
#6
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity


I have shot a vortex pst ffp 4x16 for about a year now and love it!!! I have also shot a few of their other scopes and loved them also. Whenever I get the chance to promote Vortex I do. They are a great company with great products and unmatched customer service. When they shipped my pst, it did not include enough shims to set the zero stop so I called them to order more. They sent the shims at no cost and shipped 2-3 day air. That is service. Never had any trouble with clarity...
 
#7
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

I had the 4-16x and was unimpressed. It gave me headaches on 16x after only 30 minutes. I broomed it.

I took a lot of shit for my opinion, and was only recently vindicated by a man whose opinion I trust;

<span style="font-style: italic">As far as image quality goes, Vortex Viper PST was notably worse than the rest of this line-up. I mentioned earlier that I got a chance to look at two different 2.5-10x44 PST scopes. When i started testing thei first one, I had to conclude that there was something wrong with it. I could never quite get the image to be perfectly sharp and there was some measurable parallax at any distance where I tried to put the target. I got a hold of Vortex and requested another scope to look at. When it got here it turned out to be a bit better in terms of image quality, and I was able to find a parallax free distance (at just beyond 100 yards). Still, optically the scope did not agree with me. The image looked quite flat. There was notable chromatic aberration. Contrast was low and resolution was nothing to write home about. The image looked quite bright, but not well resolved at all. If I were to make guess, i would say that the objective lens system was either not well optimized or too ambitious. I obviously do not have access to the actual design, but simply looking at the scope, it looks like the objective lens system is quite short in length. That impression is further supported by rather shallow depth of field that accompanies low f/# optical systems. General rule of thumb is that low f/# lens systems are notoriously more difficult to optimize especially at a price point.

Before I move on, I think it is worth my while to talk a little bit about the image quality of the whole PST line-up. One of the reasons this article took me so long to finish is that I wanted to get my hands onto as many PST scopes as possible in an attempt to see if the 2.5-10x44 is representative of the rest of the line-up. I also spent a fair amount of time at SHOT looking at every PST scope Vortex had on display. From an optical standpoint, I think the 2.5-10x44 is the weakest link among the PSTs. 1-4x24 looked pretty reasonable. 4-16x50 did not impress me a whole lot, but it was decent. 6-24x50 actually seemed to be quite good. In terms of image quality, it had nothing in common with the 2.5-10x44 and is generally the gem of the PST line-up, best I can tell. Now, this is based on looking at a rather small number of units and I have no idea how much production variation there will be with PSTs. Since the whole product family is new, only time will tell that.</span>

http://opticsthoughts.com/index.php?opti...ws&Itemid=4
 
#8
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

how would the 4-16x50 compare to a ziess conquest?

my budget for a scope 2 weeks ago was $500, for a nikon monarch, until i looked thru the ziess for $900. all of a sudden, my bidget doubled.

i am picking up a 4-16x50 tomorrow i purchased from a hide member.
 
#9
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArmchairElite</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I am aware of a few negative comparisons done including the one by jrob300. </div></div>

Some things to think about when reading reviews.

1). Was the product being reviewed supplied by the manufacturer for review? If so, you need to be aware that some "cherry-pick" the best for review. Be suspect of any publication that also advertises, as they stand to alienate their potential advertisers with a negative review.

2). If a purchased item was reviewed, look at the date of the review and be aware that at any given time on any given manufacturing floor there is going to be variability from sample to sample in the same lot. Then there is lot to lot variation. Lastly there is variation brought about by in-process change which most manufacturers WILL NOT TELL YOU ABOUT. Why? Because everyone would request the newest model.

3). When you see the "well mine didn't do that", or "mine's great" statements, keep in mind that opinions are like... well, you get the idea. Or it could be product variability. Or uneducated users. Or different conditions. Or...

Evaluating optics is like high-end audio or wine. It takes a while to become educated about some of the nuances. The cool thing is if you like $3/bottle wine... you win! I made the mistake of learning the difference and now I'm cursed. The same thing is true of optics. I often see things in a scope that no one else notices. If you don't see it... your good luck. Not mine.

Also factor in that good companies will listen to their customers and make incremental changes to their design or manufacturing process (including suppliers, inspections, handling, packaging, etc.)

Vortex, in my experience, either really cares about what their customers think or has learned that seeming to care is profitable. It really doesn't matter which. We win no matter the real motivation.

The 4-16 PST I evaluated was not a good scope from a purely optical standpoint. But... it would not surprise me at all, in fact I would bet on the fact that Vortex has put some effort into bringing the 4-16 up to par in the time that has transpired to the extent is fits within their business model. I didn't get the impression they were content with negative reviews.
wink.gif


The really great news is that Vortex has an outstanding warranty and a raft of great dealers (I'm partial to Scott @ Liberty Optics, but I was dropped on my head as a kid). As a result, the odds of you being happy with your end-product are higher than ever.

For what it is worth, I just bought my second Razor. I'm very impressed with Vortex as an organization and have gotten good support from both Scott and Sam over the last few years.

John
 
#10
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

I would like to thank everyone for your feedback, both positive and negative in regards to the 4-16 PST. After all, I was looking for peoples personal opinions and that's what I'm getting. I'm not sure if their are differences in individual scopes or just in an individuals eyes.
I do know that mine is very well made. I have only good things to say about it other than what has been discussed regarding the optics. I can still make out the bullet holes from my 308 at 100 yards on 16x. I'm mostly just trying to decide whether I should go through the trouble/money to turn it into a 6-24 SFP PST. Since I'm mostly just shooting benchrest it might be a good move but, if it was only about having more power I would just keep it. I hate to loose money on something that has no defects whatsoever but, I have very good vision and would notice a difference(if their is one). If I decide to trade it in to a store it will be going in the box with all the stuff that came with it. I never even opened the shims. I might talk to Vortex and Scott at Liberty optics about this and see what they say.
If anyone else has feedback about their experiences I would still like to hear them. Especially if you have compared the 4-16 PST to the 6-24 PST. Thanks again.
 
#11
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

I have had both the 4-16 and the 6-24, both FFP and MOA. BOTH had problems with debris inside the scope attaching to the front lense. I sent both back and had brand new ones within a few weeks. I quickly sold them and moves on. That was #3 and #4 of the Vortex line that I have bought, and either sold out of disgust, or sold becasue of the problems. I know every scope manufacturer has had issues with scopes but when 1 customer buys 4 different scopes and has issues with all 4, I've spent my money elsewhere since. If you are going to spend the dough for a PST, I'd say look at the Sightron III's.
 
#12
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

jrob300: I've done a great deal of searching for information on this subject and most of the time it ends with someone pasting your review. This isn't just the case on Sniper's Hide either. Having searched out all the information I could on this subject anything someone sent me like that would have just been redundant. The reason that I named you specifically is because your review is the most well circulated.
The 4-16 PST that you used was your friends and not given for review buy Vortex. I read your review not long after getting my scope. It made me start to wonder about it. I believe that your test was very well done. If I hadn't I would have dismissed it. The only thing I didn't like about your review was how my scope did optically. Especially in comparison to the 6-24 PST. But I know you didn't do this comparison to just tell people what they wanted to hear and I appreciate that. I believe my scope was made during the same general period of time as the one you used so an intentional difference is unlikely.
I will ask Vortex about an upgrade, but I wouldn't think ill of them if they wouldn't. After all, their is nothing wrong with mine. I know that Scott@Liberty Optics takes scopes on trade in. I will call him next and see what he says. I see he has no problem selling the used ones and currently has none in stock.
If I change scopes I would consider getting a different brand, but all things being equal I would prefer to stay with Vortex.
 
#14
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

jrob300: Thank you for doing these types of reviews. The amount of people that learn from them is really hard to quantify. I read your review when you posted it last April, but I have only been a Hide member for a week.
 
#15
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: StanwoodSpartan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have had both the 4-16 and the 6-24, both FFP and MOA. BOTH had problems with debris inside the scope attaching to the front lense. I sent both back and had brand new ones within a few weeks. I quickly sold them and moves on. That was #3 and #4 of the Vortex line that I have bought, and either sold out of disgust, or sold becasue of the problems. I know every scope manufacturer has had issues with scopes but when 1 customer buys 4 different scopes and has issues with all 4, I've spent my money elsewhere since. If you are going to spend the dough for a PST, I'd say look at the Sightron III's. </div></div> I will look into Sightron, but I have heard some complaints about durability. If I find someting that I like in my price range I will research this more. Thanks
 
#16
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArmchairElite</div><div class="ubbcode-body">jrob300: Thank you for doing these types of reviews. </div></div>

You're welcome. I try to make my reviews as objective and data driven as possible. Telling someone that a particular scope is "good" or "bad" doesn't help them with the complicated process of deciding if it is "good" or "bad" for their specific application. Basing my conclusions on measured data rather than just my opinion makes the information more valuable to a wider audience.

The reason I chimed in here is to clarify some of the reasons we can see such variability in responses to the "same" scope. Good luck on getting yours resolved.

John
 
#19
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

all i can say is i love my 6-24 and no one can change my mind. if i couldd afford a razor i would have one. since i cant i have the best i can afford and thats a pst
 
#20
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

Since I've mentioned it I guess I should pipe in.... Like jrob300, both of the 4-16 PST's I had were early ones that may not accurately reflect what they're putting out now. I don't know.

What I do know is they were both significantly inferior to the 6-24 I have (also of the same vintage) optically. They weren't even close. They're gone, but you'll have to pry the 6-24 out of my cold dead hands.
 
#21
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

I have used both the 4-16x and 6-24x. I did not do an Optical Resolution Test but I will say I had not issue see with the 4-16x PST. Whatever one you get you will like. We have had really good luck with the PST line.

Mike @ CST
 
#22
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

JRob how you like the Razor with the updated eye piece? BTW I have a 4-16 PST coming in soon, hope I'm not as disappointed with it as you were. It’s going to have to really impress me to stay on my sons rifle.
 
#23
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: boone</div><div class="ubbcode-body">JRob how you like the Razor with the updated eye piece?</div></div>

I spent 4 hours behind an updated Razor @ 600 yds. on Sat. doing some load development for my .260. I have to say it's significantly better than the original. I got "winking" often at 20x if I didn't get perfect position behind the scope with the original. The updated version is far more forgiving in that way. A lot less fatiguing also.

Not sure if it's a coincidence, but the updated version displayed less chromatic aberration than the original also.

John
 
#24
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jon A</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Since I've mentioned it I guess I should pipe in.... Like jrob300, both of the 4-16 PST's I had were early ones that may not accurately reflect what they're putting out now. I don't know.

What I do know is they were both significantly inferior to the 6-24 I have (also of the same vintage) optically. They weren't even close. They're gone, but you'll have to pry the 6-24 out of my cold dead hands. </div></div>I'm glad that posted your experience with them, albeit disappointing to me. After jrob300 followed it up with a detailed test I knew something was up. It's not that it's a bad scope. It's very well made and Vortex has great CS. But since I had debated for so long whether I should get the 4-16 or 6-24 PST it was clear to me that I had chosen poorly. Afterall, the 6-24 PST was only $50 more.
 
#25
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: corey4</div><div class="ubbcode-body">just got my 4-16x50 pst in the mail today. it looks pretty damn clear to me. </div></div>Mine is clear also. I can see the bullet holes at 100 yards. I think you would need to compare it side by side to know for sure. I hope this post hasn't taken the fun out of getting your new scope. It does everything it was designed to do without a hitch. Like others have already mentioned, it could be different now. Only one way to know for sure and I don't have access to any good scopes to compare mine to.
 
#26
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

Here is my opinion, I ONLY buy pst scopes for my rifles now. I
Compared my 2.5-10 pst Against my friends 10x super sniper. The ss has
Better glass, but my pst is variable power, zero stop, and illumination unlike his ss.

For what you pay it is a great scope with decent glass and great features, like I said they are all I buy anymore.....
 
#27
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArmchairElite</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: corey4</div><div class="ubbcode-body">just got my 4-16x50 pst in the mail today. it looks pretty damn clear to me. </div></div>Mine is clear also. I can see the bullet holes at 100 yards. I think you would need to compare it side by side to know for sure. I hope this post hasn't taken the fun out of getting your new scope. It does everything it was designed to do without a hitch. Like others have already mentioned, it could be different now. Only one way to know for sure and I don't have access to any good scopes to compare mine to. </div></div>


it didn't ruin my fun of getting my new scope.

now i just have to learn how to use the damn thing!!!
 
#28
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

I'm trading my 4-16 PST to Scott @ Liberty Optics as partial payment for an IOR Valdada. If anyone is interested in a used one that looks new he will probably have it in a week or so. I seriously babied it. No marks on it. Never even wiped the lenses. Comes in the original box with MRAD reticule instructions, owners manual, sunshade, zero stop shims still sealed in plastic, wrench, cleaning cloth and Vortex pin.
 
#29
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

I bought my 6-24x50 PST from Scott at Liberty Optics last year, and I’m very impressed with the scope.
I was surprised at how clear the reticule was. It had really good positive clicks from the turrets, nice and firm too.
 
#30
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

A short while ago, I was able to get a look at and through a 4-16 PST and was able to compare it directly to my IOR 3-18.

As far as clarity and resolution goes, it was not even close. The IOR was vastly superior to my eye.
 
#31
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: fdkay</div><div class="ubbcode-body">A short while ago, I was able to get a look at and through a 4-16 PST and was able to compare it directly to my IOR 3-18.

As far as clarity and resolution goes, it was not even close. The IOR was vastly superior to my eye. </div></div>I can't afford one of those. I'm going to get a fixed x16 IOR. Should be the same clarity and resolution though(I hope). Is yours a 42mm or 50mm?
 
#33
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: fdkay</div><div class="ubbcode-body">3-18x42 </div></div> Good to hear. The one I'm getting is a 16x42. Mine will be a more basic/older design, but the clarity should be the same.
 
#34
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArmchairElite</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: fdkay</div><div class="ubbcode-body">3-18x42 </div></div> Good to hear. The one I'm getting is a 16x42. Mine will be a more basic/older design, but the clarity should be the same. </div></div>


None of my business but you might be making a bad choice . Are you sure you want a fixed power 16x?
IOR are great scopes but unless it's a special application rifle you will be sorry on your choice.
 
#35
Re: Vortex 4-16x50 PST clarity

I appreciate your concern and I understand your logic. The reason I'm not worried is because I have never taken my 4-16 PST off of 16x. So nothing will be changing in that regard from what I've been doing for the past 2 years. All I see myself doing in the near future is benchrest shooting with my dad. At least for the next few years. Maybe by then I can afford something with similar glass but variable power and moa/moa or mil/mil. I would like to give this IOR to my dad in a few years since I think it would be kind on his old eyes.
 
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