As a professional shooter, I understand the significance of selecting the appropriate scope to match your shooting requirements. The right scope can enhance your accuracy, extend your effective range, and ultimately lead to more successful shooting experiences.
Vortex Optics, a reputable American optical equipment manufacturer, has produced top-quality rifle scopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, and other related accessories since 2002. Their unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service has earned them a loyal following among shooting enthusiasts, hunters, and professionals.
Today, I will compare two popular Vortex scopes: the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x and the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x. These scopes are designed with versatility and reliability in mind, catering to the needs of various shooting disciplines.
Specifications: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x vs 1-6x
Here’s a specification table comparing the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 Vs 1-8 models.
Features Comparison Vortex Strike Eagle
1. Magnification Range
When comparing the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 and 1-6, one of the main differences lies in their magnification ranges. Let’s take a closer look at how they compare.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
The Vortex Strike Eagle offers a magnification range of 1-8x, giving shooters greater flexibility when engaging targets at various distances.
With this scope, you can comfortably shoot at close quarters while still being capable of reaching out to extended ranges with precision. The higher magnification range allows for more precise target identification and tracking, making it an ideal choice for those participating in long-range shooting competitions or requiring additional magnification for their hunting endeavors.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
On the other hand, this model has a 1-6x magnification range. This range is more than sufficient for most shooting situations, particularly those that don’t demand extreme long-range accuracy.
The 1-6x magnification is versatile enough to handle close to mid-range shots effectively. It is an excellent option for tactical applications, 3-Gun competitions, and hunting in wooded or brushy environments where long shots are less likely.
Winner: Draw
The choice between the two scopes largely depends on your individual shooting needs and preferences, so it’s difficult to declare a clear winner here. The higher magnification range of 1-8x is more suitable for long-range engagements, while the 1-6x is better suited for close to mid-range scenarios. Therefore, the decision ultimately rests with you.
2. Reticle
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x features an illuminated BDC3 (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticle designed to help shooters estimate bullet drop at different distances.
The BDC3 reticle has holdover points in horizontal hash marks below the central aiming point. These hash marks correspond to specific distances and are particularly helpful when shooting targets beyond your zeroed range.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 has an illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle specifically designed for AR platforms. This reticle shares several similarities with the BDC3 reticle found in the 1-8 model.
The AR-BDC3 reticle also features holdover points for bullet drop compensation and windage marks for adjusting based on wind conditions.
However, the AR-BDC3 reticle has been tailored to suit the ballistic profiles of popular AR-15 cartridges, such as the .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO, making it an ideal choice for AR-15 rifle users.
Winner: Tie
The primary difference between the reticles of the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 and 1-6 lies in their suitability for specific shooting platforms. While the BDC3 reticle in the 1-8 model offers more versatility and can cater to a broader range of rifles and shooting scenarios, the AR-BDC3 reticle in the 1-6 model is specifically tailored to AR platforms. It is ideal for shooters using AR-15 rifles.
3. Focal plane
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 utilizes a second focal plane (SFP) design. The reticle remains the same size in SFP scopes regardless of the magnification setting. This means that the reticle will appear to be the same size as the target, using low or high magnification.
SFP scopes are often preferred by shooters who engage targets at varying distances and require a reticle that remains consistently visible across the magnification range. Additionally, SFP scopes are generally more affordable than a first focal plane (FFP) scopes.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 also features a second focal plane design, similar to the 1-8 model. As with the 1-8 scope, the reticle size in the 1-6 scope remains constant regardless of the magnification setting, ensuring a consistent aiming point throughout the entire magnification range.
Winner: Draw
Both the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 and 1-6 utilize a second focal plane design, which many shooters prefer for its consistency and affordability.
4. Field of View
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 offers a field of view ranging from 109.2 to 14.4 feet at 100 yards, depending on the magnification setting.
This means that at the lowest magnification (1x), you can see an area of 109.2 feet wide at 100 yards, while at the highest magnification (8x), the visible area is reduced to 14.4 feet wide at the same distance.
The varying field of view allows you to adapt to different shooting situations, providing a wide FOV for tracking moving targets and a narrow FOV for precise aiming at long distances.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 provides a field of view ranging from 116.5 to 19.2 feet at 100 yards, depending on the magnification setting.
This means that at 1x magnification, you can see an area of 116.5 feet wide at 100 yards, while at the highest magnification (6x), the visible area is reduced to 19.2 feet wide at the same distance.
The 1-6 model offers a slightly wider field of view compared to the 1-8 model, which can be beneficial when tracking moving targets or maintaining situational awareness.
Winner: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 has a marginally wider field of view than the 1-8x model. While this difference may not be significant for all shooters, those who prioritize situational awareness and the ability to track moving targets may find the wider FOV of the 1-6 model more appealing.
5. Weight
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 weighs 17.6 ounces, making it relatively lightweight and easy to handle. The reduced weight can be advantageous for those who frequently carry their rifles for extended periods or participate in dynamic shooting scenarios, such as 3-gun competitions.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 weigh 18.5 ounces, which is slightly heavier than the 1-8 model. While the weight difference may not be substantial for some shooters, it could be a deciding factor for those who prioritize minimizing the overall weight of their firearms setup.
Winner: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x is slightly lighter than the 1-6x model and may be preferred by shooters who value minimal weight. However, some shooters may not find the weight difference significant enough to warrant choosing the 1-8 model over the 1-6. The decision may ultimately come down to personal preference.
6. Price
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8, due to its higher magnification range and slightly more advanced features, is generally priced higher than the 1-6 model. At the time of writing, the price for the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 typically ranges from around $400 to $500.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 is usually more affordable compared to the 1-8 model. The price for the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 typically ranges from around $350 to $400.
Winner: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 is usually priced more affordably than the 1-8 model, making it a better option for shooters on a tighter budget. However, if your primary concern is performance rather than price, the extra cost of the higher magnification range and improved features offered by the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 may be worth considering.
Pros And Cons Of Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x
Pros
- Higher magnification range:
- Lightweight:
- Illuminated BDC3 reticle
Cons
- The slightly narrower field of view:
- Expensive
Pros And Cons Of Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x
Pros
- Wider field of view
- Slightly shorter length
- More affordable
- Illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle
Cons
- Lower magnification range
- Heavier
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6 Vs 1-8 – Comparison Videos
My Choice
I’ve had the opportunity to test and evaluate the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x and 1-6x models extensively. Both scopes offer impressive features and performance, but choosing an overall winner comes down to individual preferences, shooting needs, and budget constraints.
I prioritize versatility, performance, and adaptability in various shooting scenarios. Taking all factors into account, I would personally choose the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 as the overall winner. The higher magnification range and lighter weight outweigh the slightly narrower field of view and potentially higher price for my shooting needs.
It’s important to remember that the best choice for one shooter may not be the best for another. I recommend evaluating your shooting needs, preferences, and budget to determine which of these excellent scopes is the ideal fit for you.
Conclusion
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x and 1-6x are both outstanding rifle scopes that offer impressive performance, features, and versatility for a variety of shooting scenarios. Both models have their own unique advantages and disadvantages that should be evaluated to determine which is a better fit for your individual needs. Ultimately, the decision may come down to personal preference.
FAQs
What is the difference between Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x and 1-6x?
The main differences between the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 and 1-6 models are magnification range, weight, field of view, and price. The 1-8 model has a higher magnification range than the 1-6 model, is lighter, and has a slightly narrower field of view. It is also more expensive. The 1-6 model has a wider field of view and is more affordable.
Do the Vortex Strike Eagle scopes come with a warranty?
Vortex Optics offers a VIP Warranty for their products, including the Strike Eagle scopes. This warranty covers repairs or replacements for any defects in materials or workmanship without any cost to the owner. The warranty is fully transferable and does not require a receipt or registration.
Can I use night vision devices with the Vortex Strike Eagle scopes?
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 and 1-6 scopes do not have a built-in night vision feature, but they can be used in conjunction with separate night vision devices. However, using night vision devices may require additional mounting solutions and a proper alignment between the scope and the night vision device.
Are the Vortex Strike Eagle scopes fog-proof and waterproof?
Yes, both the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 and 1-6 scopes are designed to be fog-proof and waterproof. They feature O-ring seals that prevent moisture, dust, and debris from entering the scope and the internal optics are purged with argon gas to prevent internal fogging due to temperature changes.
