Rifle Scopes USO ER25 vs Vortex Razor Gen 2 4.5-27

[65x55guy]

I've never owned a scope before at the premium pricing of either of these. Spent most of my time behind higher end Bushnells, which have treated me well. But I'm looking to move up a bit and have seen used models of these two scopes for the same price range on here in Optics PX.

I'm going to use this scope on a DTA SRS (also new to me) for steel shooting out to 1 mile, and occasionally on deer when it's convenient.

Please share your thoughts on either, especially if you've owned or shot through both and have seen differences.

Thanks- JTG

 

[Mute]

The Vortex will have a friendlier eyebox to get behind. USO scopes have a tendency to have very little forgiveness if you're not perfectly behind the glass.

 

[Dantrom]

Not my experience at all. I've owned a few USO's but not the one in question. Very nice to get behind, was always very satisfied with mine. I've played with a buddy's vortex. It was very nice as well.
I noticed the vortex had much nicer "click" to the turrets.

 

[Fursniper]

When side by side, the USO is darker & the colors are better to my eye in the Vortex.

 

[JC Steel]

I think both are great. The USO in my opinion is probably a bit more durable for hard use. Field of view is better in the USO.
I think the coatings on the vortex are probably more advanced , and thus you might have a color pop differently.

USO is made right here in USA.
Vortex is mostly made in china, and japan. Although they now have one scope (AMG) that is USA made. And it too is a sweet scope

 

[Stag556]

I have owned both. I owned a Razor and needed another scope so I bought a USO ER25. After two weeks, I sold it and bought a second Razor.

My main reasons are I hated the turrets on the USO, they just didn't feel "good" to me and being used to the zeroing process of the Razor, I hated the zeroing on the USO.

I found the glass on the USO to be good, my eye couldn't tell the difference between the two. As far as reticle choice, USO sucks unless you want to pay a premium for a Horus. The Vortex EBR-2C is one of he best factory reticles out there. Also, I didn't find the eyebox to much different on them although the USO tunneled on low power where my Razor doesn't do that.

These are all just my opinion and experience, others may be different.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Rob01]

I think both are great. The USO in my opinion is probably a bit more durable for hard use. Field of view is better in the USO.
I think the coatings on the vortex are probably more advanced , and thus you might have a color pop differently.

USO is made right here in USA.
Vortex is mostly made in china, and japan. Although they now have one scope (AMG) that is USA made. And it too is a sweet scope

"Probably" is the key word. I have owned both over the years and the Vortex is by far a better scope in knobs and glass. Locking knobs with a true zero stop and also the clickless zeroing, all of which the USO doesn;t have. And before anyone says the EREK does, it doesn't. It doesn't have an accurate clickless zeroing when using the center screw to zero and the fine tuning is with clicks and there is no zero stop and you have to try and finagle the EREK to have it bottom out to try and make it a zero stop. The Vortex also all tracked perfectly. The only thing the USO has over the Razor II is the lighter weight and they can put the windage knob where you want it. The internal bubble level is cool too.

The Razor II are made in Japan, which is not a bad thing, but then delivered and rebuilt in the US at the Vortex facility where they add their knobs. None of the high end scopes are made in China.

 

[Covertnoob5]

Go Razor 2 all the way. It's smaller so you don't have a baseball bat on your SRS. I had a Razor 2 and really liked it, have an AMG now. Locking turrets are great when hunting, I set my elevation for 300 yards, lock it then hold over or under for my shot. The warranty is amazing with vortex especially if you take it hunting like I do, take a bad spill out there and they'll fix it. And with very good turn around time if you need it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[scudzuki]

I think both are great. The USO in my opinion is probably a bit more durable for hard use. Field of view is better in the USO.
I think the coatings on the vortex are probably more advanced , and thus you might have a color pop differently.

USO is made right here in USA.
Vortex is mostly made in china, and japan. Although they now have one scope (AMG) that is USA made. And it too is a sweet scope

No the Razor IIs are built at LOW Japan then completely rebuilt in the US with secret erector parts that they don't want LOW to see (lest they end up in other scopes LOW manufactures).
I've owned both the USO ER25 and the Razor Gen II 4.5-27x56 and I'd take the Vortex over the USO, hands down. Better glass, a real zero stop, better reticles, super warranty. The ER25 didn't impress me, especially after all the praise that has been lavished on USO products, although it would make a great baseball bat in a pinch (it's HUGE).

 

[65x55guy]

I feel like the experts have spoken. Thanks to everyone for the input.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[para1505]

Maybe you should look at the new Bravo series (B25) US Optics

 

[shin95]

for me, they are very similar in many ways, but only reason I chose the vortex is simply because of their warranty.

If USO warranty was the same as vortex, I think I may have gone uso.

I can be 100% comfortable knowing that if anything happens to the optic, even 5 years from now, vortex will take care of me. That's how they drop the mic IMO.

 

[para1505]

I bought a used 3.2x17 USO here on the hide it got to were it wouldn't return to zero or track properly. I sent it in, they called me back and informed me it was a 09 model and they had tracking problem and it would cost them more to repair it than a new one. They told me to pick out what features I wanted on one and they would send it to me. So I don't see how they dropped anything

 

[Carlos0311B4]

I also went with the Razor bit the 3-18. After talking to the rep for almost an hour before I ordered I don't think the USO is more durable


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Moose]

I own a razor gen 2 and it is a very good scope,I also have US Optics 1.8x10 scope and like it a lot.Once you start buying a scope like these you get spoiled.

 

[WeiserBucks]

I had an ER 25 , tracked great , great glass but very large and heavy . If size and weight aren't an issue, USO is a good choice. I've never used a Vortex, but they have a strong following.

 

[just browsing]

I guess I'm in the minority here, I'll take my ER25 10 times out of 10 over my Gen 2.

It's larger than the Vortex but also keep in mind it's lighter. The turrets/clicks on my Razor left something to be desired, the USO is crisp all the time.

Glass is a wash.

For me, the USO just feels more durable. Fortunately I've never had to test it, but it's stood up to the rigors of match shooting without issue. The Razor did as well, but it gets to be pretty heavy after lugging a rifle and gear pack around all weekend.

I would highly recommend going and getting behind both for yourself. The internet can be a great resource, but using it as the sole basis for big purchases will come back to bite you eventually.

 

[Tomokochan]

I used to think the Vortex overrated ( you know, great marketing company that happens to sell scopes ) but that changed when I bought a Razor HD Gen II of which I now have two. Compares very favorably to the S+B Pmii and the NF ATACR that I own and is better IMO that the USO I have used. Of course no really bad choices here and YMMV but the Razor II is very hard to beat.

 

[Stag556]

I had an ER 25 , tracked great , great glass but very large and heavy . If size and weight aren't an issue, USO is a good choice. I've never used a Vortex, but they have a strong following.

You thought the ER25 was heavy?! I love my Razor Gen 2 and when I owned the ER25, one thing I wouldn't call it was heavy. The Gen 2 is heavy! Hold both and you'll change your mind on that.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[steves1911]

I bought a used 3.2x17 USO here on the hide it got to were it wouldn't return to zero or track properly. I sent it in, they called me back and informed me it was a 09 model and they had tracking problem and it would cost them more to repair it than a new one. They told me to pick out what features I wanted on one and they would send it to me. So I don't see how they dropped anything

Same thing happened to me when I purchased a 3.2-22 from a friend. Tracking issues, but they said they would send a ballistic card for reference. Second recommendation, would I like a ER25 as a replacement! Uh, sure. Yes, it is large, glass is good and it tracks perfectly. Customer service lacking? I think not, just my 2 cents. As for the Vortex! First time I picked one up was way before they became so popular. First impression was it had good weight, you could tell it was well built and the glass? To my eyes, it was outstanding and the only reason for not purchasing it. I thought it was a knock off, Ha Ha! My next scope will be a Vortex Razor. I think you'll be happy with either, good luck!

 

[Bar99]

No experience except with Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27. Yes it is heavy. That's the only knock on it. And I don't think there is a better reticle out there than the EBR-2C. I love it. And then there's that warranty....

 

[JS624]

I will have both at my disposal tomorrow. Will report back with my opinion.

 

[shin95]

Same thing happened to me when I purchased a 3.2-22 from a friend. Tracking issues, but they said they would send a ballistic card for reference. Second recommendation, would I like a ER25 as a replacement! Uh, sure. Yes, it is large, glass is good and it tracks perfectly. Customer service lacking? I think not, just my 2 cents. As for the Vortex! First time I picked one up was way before they became so popular. First impression was it had good weight, you could tell it was well built and the glass? To my eyes, it was outstanding and the only reason for not purchasing it. I thought it was a knock off, Ha Ha! My next scope will be a Vortex Razor. I think you'll be happy with either, good luck!

If an optic at that price doesnt track properly, they better fix or replace it. im sure thats a given, but what happens when the illumination fails on the uso? per their company warranty policy, they offer limited warranty on the electric components of the scope. After 2 years, youre on your own.

At least vortex covers anything and everything even after 10 years.

 

[Rob01]

I guess I'm in the minority here, I'll take my ER25 10 times out of 10 over my Gen 2.

The turrets/clicks on my Razor left something to be desired, the USO is crisp all the time.

I found the exact opposite. The EREK clicks on the 5 USOs I have had was no where near as crisp as the Razors. Here is a video of the Razor's knobs. You can easily hear and feel the clicks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eD9-_CzPtN4

 

[kristian55]

At least vortex covers anything and everything even after 10 years.

fact

 

[kristian55]

I think both are great. The USO in my opinion is probably a bit more durable for hard use. Field of view is better in the USO.
I think the coatings on the vortex are probably more advanced , and thus you might have a color pop differently.

USO is made right here in USA.
Vortex is mostly made in china, and japan. Although they now have one scope (AMG) that is USA made. And it too is a sweet scope

Jake,who makes the glass for USO?

 

[just browsing]

I found the exact opposite. The EREK clicks on the 5 USOs I have had was no where near as crisp as the Razors. Here is a video of the Razor's knobs. You can easily hear and feel the clicks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eD9-_CzPtN4

Yeah I mean, I think it gets to a point where it's all personal preference. What I might find as good, crisp clicks doesn't necessarily mean they're good... it's all relative. Scopes in this range don't really get better or worse in my opinion, just different. So it really all comes down to what one likes.

My Gen 2 turrets were too tight for my liking. They were tactile clicks, but I could also find 'in between spots' where it wasn't on one hash or the next. Not necessarily bothersome, but an observation nonetheless.

Bottom line, I would trust both with my life. I just find myself leaning towards the ER25 when I have a choice.

 

[Greene]

If anyway possible I would advise try to get behind each scope you are looking at them yourself, so you can make the decision on what your tastes and preferences are. I personally am not a USO fan. I think Vortex Razor and Nightforce F1 are 2 best options going right. I have used the gen 2 Razor in competition for about 2yrs now and never an issue. Glass is good, well laid out optic. Some say its a little heavy, but I feel its negligible because its a centered weight and not hanging off the end of your barrel.

I really like my Nf 5-25 F1. I give the glass of the NF an ever so slight edge over the Vortex but thats my eyes and debatable from one user to the next. I am working on trading my Mil-R for an H59 as I like tree style reticles.

 

[Poorboyr]

I prefer my Er25 over my Razor Gen II. Both are great scopes. I would give USO a slight edge in durability and glass. I know durability from experience. But like everyone has said, you need to look for yourself. For instance, I like nightforce glass, but can't seem to get them to work with my eyes. Don't know why, they just don't fit. Either way, get what you prefer. Either one would be more than enough scope for just about anything.

 

[JC Steel]

"Probably" is the key word. I have owned both over the years and the Vortex is by far a better scope in knobs and glass. Locking knobs with a true zero stop and also the clickless zeroing, all of which the USO doesn;t have. And before anyone says the EREK does, it doesn't. It doesn't have an accurate clickless zeroing when using the center screw to zero and the fine tuning is with clicks and there is no zero stop and you have to try and finagle the EREK to have it bottom out to try and make it a zero stop. The Vortex also all tracked perfectly. The only thing the USO has over the Razor II is the lighter weight and they can put the windage knob where you want it. The internal bubble level is cool too.

The Razor II are made in Japan, which is not a bad thing, but then delivered and rebuilt in the US at the Vortex facility where they add their knobs. None of the high end scopes are made in China.

​​​​​Rob, How many newer ER-25 scopes do you have? Or are they the older models from years ago? ​Obviously everyone has their own opinion. I just see an aweful lot of Precision Rifle Shooters holding their little vortex tool re-zeroing before every match. I am not sure how many precision rifle matches you have shot in the last say 3 years with either the USO or the Vortex, But I have traveled all over the country many times and back again with my USO, have not fiddled with anything. Show up, and shoot. Its where I left it, and where it needs to be.

I have tested both scopes tracking, USO is spot on everytime.

I will say I only have the newer ER-25 scopes. I have heard of some problems back in the day. But for current stock stuff, I choose what I do for many reasons. Number one I dont want to have shifting problems, and I like to see with the field of view. Clicks are nicer on the vortex I personally thing. Some like different clicks. I am not a fan of locking turrrets. HA, I see so many people on a stage try to adjust their dial, then pull it up, then adjust it. Just one more unneeded step for competition shooting. They are both pretty heavy, And I personally like the weight. We are shooting heavy rifles, a little more means less recoil!

I think both have their pros and cons. For me, I pick US Optics. For you, you pick Vortex. I would put my scopes up against anyone's anything during a rifle match. And I have.

BTW, No more put your windage where you want, I think USO is stopping that to get more streamline on production models. Which will bring the cost down slightly, and hopefully help availability.

 

[wareagle700]

I don't have a USO but have would have a hard time imagining its movement is significantly more crisp and tactile than the G2R. Not saying the G2R is the best in the industry, but its certainly not lacking in any way.

Jake, certainly sounds as if you have something against Vortex insinuating their scopes aren't holding zero. I would imagine most people like to fine tune and confirm zero before a match? I know I do. People change barrels, loads, brakes, mounts, etc....sounds like holding the "little Vortex tool" would be a good idea for those who need to make an adjustment.

 

[tennturk]

I have owned both. I owned a Razor and needed another scope so I bought a USO ER25. After two weeks, I sold it and bought a second Razor.

My main reasons are I hated the turrets on the USO, they just didn't feel "good" to me and being used to the zeroing process of the Razor, I hated the zeroing on the USO.

I found the glass on the USO to be good, my eye couldn't tell the difference between the two. As far as reticle choice, USO sucks unless you want to pay a premium for a Horus. The Vortex EBR-2C is one of he best factory reticles out there. Also, I didn't find the eyebox to much different on them although the USO tunneled on low power where my Razor doesn't do that.

These are all just my opinion and experience, others may be different.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I shoot with Stag and came to same exact conclusions when playing with his USO. I have a Razor HD Gen2 on my AIAT and would pick it 100 times over just based on the ease of adjusting the zero. I switch barrels/calibers frequently and rezeoring the scope is easier for me instead of trying to keep track of the dope numbers and then getting lost in the turrets trying to dial on top of that.

 

[Rob01]

​​​​​Rob, How many newer ER-25 scopes do you have? Or are they the older models from years ago? ​Obviously everyone has their own opinion. I just see an aweful lot of Precision Rifle Shooters holding their little vortex tool re-zeroing before every match. I am not sure how many precision rifle matches you have shot in the last say 3 years with either the USO or the Vortex, But I have traveled all over the country many times and back again with my USO, have not fiddled with anything. Show up, and shoot. Its where I left it, and where it needs to be.

I have tested both scopes tracking, USO is spot on everytime.

I will say I only have the newer ER-25 scopes. I have heard of some problems back in the day. But for current stock stuff, I choose what I do for many reasons. Number one I dont want to have shifting problems, and I like to see with the field of view. Clicks are nicer on the vortex I personally thing. Some like different clicks. I am not a fan of locking turrrets. HA, I see so many people on a stage try to adjust their dial, then pull it up, then adjust it. Just one more unneeded step for competition shooting. They are both pretty heavy, And I personally like the weight. We are shooting heavy rifles, a little more means less recoil!

I think both have their pros and cons. For me, I pick US Optics. For you, you pick Vortex. I would put my scopes up against anyone's anything during a rifle match. And I have.

BTW, No more put your windage where you want, I think USO is stopping that to get more streamline on production models. Which will bring the cost down slightly, and hopefully help availability.

My experience is with the older models but when I get 4 out of 5 scopes that don't track then I don't go back for more. I haven't shot as much in the past three years due to home and work but having shot matches around the country since 2003 and staying in the community, I have a pretty good idea what I do when I get to a match and checking zero is one. As to the "little Vortex tool" comment, they are just checking zero and with the clickless zero they can easily get their perfect zero when they fly to a match and change conditions they are shooting under from their home range I did it back in 2004 and 2005 when I used the USO as well. Whether you decide to rezero or check zero is up to you but people do it not because there is a problem with their optic but to have piece of mind they have a good zero for the conditions they are shooting under. There are no "shifting" problems with the Vortex optics.

The features on the scope, like the locking turrets, are what people have to choose from when buying a new scope Having had my windage spin at matches under movement, I like having the option to lock it down and seeing as I hold all my windage I do leave it locked. I don't lock my elevation down unless there would be a possibility in the stage where it might move, The people you have seen I am sure weren't ready for the stage, which can happen, or new to the optic. Practice takes care of an issue like that.

That's too bad USO is doing away with the customizing. It was one of their pros in my book.

 

[JC Steel]

I don't have a USO but have would have a hard time imagining its movement is significantly more crisp and tactile than the G2R. Not saying the G2R is the best in the industry, but its certainly not lacking in any way.

Jake, certainly sounds as if you have something against Vortex insinuating their scopes aren't holding zero. I would imagine most people like to fine tune and confirm zero before a match? I know I do. People change barrels, loads, brakes, mounts, etc....sounds like holding the "little Vortex tool" would be a good idea for those who need to make an adjustment.

Absolutely nothing against vortex, i have lots of vortex stuff, all top shelf stuff, and i need another pair of vortex binos!! I think the big thing here is that everyone has their own little likes and dislikes. And what works well for one might now work well for another.
Get out and look through a bunch of different optics at a match or training. See what fits your eyes best. And then role with it. they are ALL mechanical devices, and that being said eventually soemthing will break. Its bound to happen. These companies for the most part have excellent customer service and warranties. Just sucks when we have to use them. I put alot of miles on my equipment, and beat the crap out of it. Wether it be Vortex or USO, it will wear out.

 

[KempoMan]

I have narrowed my choices to US OPTICS B-25 or STEINER M5XI 5-25. Would like actual input from those that have or have had range time behind either scope. I feel that I have done a good amount of research to be semi educated about scopes, especially these two. There is only so much that articles, facts and researching can justify. Being behind the scope becomes a different world. I unfortunately do not nor will I have the privilege to look through either one of these scopes. Until I buy one. I selected the US OPTICS B-25 because of the REPEATABILITY: tracking (Flawless Per P.R.S. Blog), DEPENDABILTIY: Tank like structure, CLARITY: Glass (Shot), coating process that US uses is pretty dam good but it's only Achromatic glass (2pcs.). Steiner M5XI, REPEATABILTIY: Tracks solid from what information I could find. DPENDABILITY: Tank like structure. CLARITY: Glass and Coating (Steiner made) which I hear Steiner is the industry leader when it comes to both when it's being used in scopes and bino's. Plus they use Apochromatic glass. The scope will mount a .338 mag. Please educate me more. Thank you for all the input in advance.