This is our comprehensive analysis of the 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards. Hitting targets accurately at 800 yards requires more than just skill; it demands a riflescope engineered for precision, clarity, and reliability.
The 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards has earned a strong reputation among hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical marksmen by producing scopes that combine rugged durability with advanced optical systems.
From the lightweight Razor HD LHT designed for hunters on the move to the powerhouse Razor HD Gen III built for extreme long-range performance, the 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards offers a wide range of options tailored to different needs and budgets. By focusing on magnification, reticle type, glass quality, turret systems, and durability, shooters can find the perfect Vortex scope to confidently push their limits at 800 yards.
7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards
1. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II FFP riflescope takes performance and reliability to new heights, making it one of the best optics for precise shooting at 800 yards. The 2-10×32 configuration is highly versatile, excelling in close, mid, and long-range applications. Whether you’re engaging targets in the field or fine-tuning your groups at the range, this scope provides the clarity and consistency serious shooters demand. This is our first choice of the 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards.
One of the standout features is its laser-etched turrets that allow precise dialing for drop and wind compensation. Coupled with the RZR zero stop and adjustable parallax, this scope gives shooters full control for long-distance accuracy.
The fiber optic rotation indicator further ensures turret adjustments are easily tracked, which is especially important during extended shooting sessions or when transitioning between ranges.
The reticle is intelligently designed, offering detailed hold points for elevation and windage while remaining uncluttered for a clean sight picture. With 10 intensity levels and off positions between each setting, the illuminated reticle adapts to a wide range of lighting conditions. This flexibility makes it a strong performer whether you’re shooting at dawn, midday, or dusk.
On the optical side, Vortex equips the PST Gen II with extra-low dispersion glass for improved resolution and color fidelity, while XR fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission.
To protect your investment, Armortek coatings shield the lenses from scratches, dirt, and oil. Combined with its O-ring sealed and argon-purged construction, the scope is both waterproof and fogproof, ensuring reliability in harsh environments.
Pros
- Versatile 2-10×32 magnification range
- First focal plane reticle
- Laser-etched turrets
- Fiber optic rotation indicator
- 10 reticle brightness levels
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Armortek lens coatings
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum body
Cons
2. Vortex Optics Viper HS LR First Focal Plane Riflescopes
When precision matters at long distances, the Vortex Viper HS LR 6-24×50 FFP riflescope stands out as one of the most dependable options in the Vortex lineup for 800-yard shooting. As a specialized subset of the Viper HS line, this model is designed for shooters and hunters who need to stretch their effective range while maintaining pinpoint accuracy.
The generous 6-24x magnification range paired with a 50mm objective lens ensures a bright, clear sight picture from medium to long range, making it an excellent choice for target shooting, varmint hunting, or long-range competitions.
The scope is built around the XLR reticle, a hashmarked MOA-based design that incorporates wind drift dots and 1 MOA reference subtensions. This reticle offers flexibility for shooters who prefer either dialing for bullet drop or holding over using the reticle itself.
The intuitive layout makes it easier to compensate for wind and elevation at extended distances, giving shooters a valuable edge in unpredictable outdoor conditions.
Optical performance is another highlight of the HS LR. Featuring XD (extra-low dispersion) glass, it delivers edge-to-edge sharpness and color fidelity, while XR multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission. This optical system allows shooters to push confidently from dawn to dusk without worrying about clarity loss.
The 4x zoom range adds versatility, enabling users to zoom in for long-range precision or back off for a wider field of view when tracking moving targets.
On the adjustment side, the HS LR is equipped with exposed, target-style elevation turrets for precise dialing at extended ranges. The CRS Zero Stop system ensures that after making several revolutions, shooters can always return quickly and accurately to their original zero. With a field of view ranging from 17.8 to 5.1 feet at 100 yards, this scope balances magnification power with situational awareness.
Durability is a hallmark of the Viper series, and this scope is no exception. Its Armortek coatings protect the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, while argon purging and O-ring sealing provide reliable fogproof and waterproof performance.
The hard-anodized matte finish not only resists wear and tear but also gives the scope a sleek, professional appearance. Built to handle recoil and tough conditions, it’s a rugged companion for both hunters and precision shooters.
Pros
- Wide 6-24x magnification
- First focal plane XLR reticle
- XD glass and XR multi-coated lenses
- Exposed elevation turrets with CRS Zero Stop
- Armortek lens coatings
- Argon-purged, O-ring sealed
- Durable hard-anodized finish resists wear
Cons
-
Larger and heavier than lower-magnification scopes
3. Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16×50 SFP is a long-range specialist within the Viper HS family, designed for shooters and hunters who need precision at extended distances without sacrificing usability in the field.
With a versatile 4-16x magnification range and a large 50mm objective lens, this scope provides a balance of magnification power and light-gathering capability that makes it ideal for hitting targets reliably at 800 yards and beyond.
At the heart of this scope is the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, optimized for hunting across varying distances where estimating holdover is critical. This reticle simplifies long-range shooting by providing clear aiming points without cluttering the sight picture, which is especially useful when transitioning quickly between targets at different ranges.
The second focal plane (SFP) design keeps the reticle size constant as magnification changes, which many hunters prefer for consistent sight acquisition.
Optical performance is a standout feature of the Viper HS LR. The scope uses XD (extra-low dispersion) glass for edge-to-edge sharpness and enhanced color fidelity, while XR fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission for crisp images even in low-light conditions. Combined with the 4x zoom range, shooters can zoom in for precision shots or zoom out for a wider field of view when scanning terrain.
For long-range adjustments, the HS LR includes exposed, target-style elevation turrets that allow precise dialing for bullet drop compensation.
The addition of the CRS Zero Stop system ensures that after multiple turret revolutions, returning to your original zero is simple and reliable. This feature alone makes it a trusted tool for hunters and precision shooters who often adjust for elevation changes in the field.
Durability is another strength of the HS LR. Armortek lens coatings protect against scratches, dirt, and oil, while argon purging and O-ring seals deliver waterproof and fogproof performance in all weather conditions. The hard-anodized matte finish not only looks professional but also provides an added layer of resilience against wear and tear.
Pros
- Versatile 4-16x magnification
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- XD glass and XR multi-coated lenses
- Exposed elevation turrets
- Armortek lens coatings
- Argon-purged and O-ring sealed
Cons
-
Slightly heavy
4. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP riflescope is a standout in the Vortex lineup for those who want reliable long-range performance without breaking the bank. Designed to balance precision and value, it provides shooters with the features needed to consistently hit targets at 800 yards, making it an excellent choice for both new and experienced long-range shooters.
The scope is equipped with extra-low dispersion (XD) glass and fully multi-coated lenses, delivering sharp, bright, and color-true images even in variable light conditions.
The first focal plane (FFP) glass-etched reticle ensures that subtensions remain accurate across the entire 4-16x zoom range, which is particularly valuable for holding elevation and windage at extended distances. This reticle design gives shooters the confidence to dial or hold accurately, regardless of magnification.
Built for smooth performance, the Diamondback Tactical incorporates Vortex’s precision-glide erector system, which uses premium internal components to maintain seamless magnification adjustments even under harsh conditions.
The exposed tactical turrets and side parallax knob give shooters the precision tools needed to make accurate adjustments for long-range shots, while the fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle focusing when transitioning between targets.
Durability is another strong point of the Diamondback Tactical. The riflescope features a single-piece 30mm tube built to withstand recoil and rugged environments. It’s shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof thanks to its O-ring seals and nitrogen purging, ensuring dependable performance in all weather conditions.
Pros
- Affordable entry point into long-range precision optics
- First focal plane reticle
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Exposed tactical turrets
- Precision-glide erector system
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof
Cons
-
44mm objective lens gathers less light
5. Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP riflescope represents the pinnacle of long-range precision in the Vortex lineup, making it a top-tier option for shooters who need absolute clarity and reliability at 800 yards and beyond.
Engineered with an optical system that delivers outstanding resolution, contrast, and light transmission, this scope allows shooters to clearly identify distant targets and make precise shots under a wide range of conditions.
Its magnification range strikes the perfect balance between high zoom and usable field of view, ensuring it is equally at home in competition shooting, tactical applications, and extreme long-range hunting.
One of the standout features of the Razor HD Gen III is its completely redesigned turret system. Equipped with the L-Tec+ Zero Stop with micro-adjust, it makes zeroing faster, simpler, and more reliable than ever before.
With just a single set screw, shooters can lock in a rock-solid return to zero. This new design ensures that even after multiple turret revolutions, the system tracks precisely and returns with absolute confidence. The stealth shadow anodized finish not only reduces glare but also enhances durability in harsh field conditions.
The illuminated EBR-7D reticle, designed for the long-range shooter, offers an array of holdovers, windage corrections, and moving target leads. Ultra-precise laser etching ensures the reticle maintains extremely tight tolerances, giving shooters a clean and reliable reference system at any magnification.
Paired with the first focal plane (FFP) design, the reticle subtensions remain accurate across the scope’s entire magnification range, making it highly versatile for dialing or holding at distance.
Optically, the Razor HD Gen III features a high-definition system that cuts chromatic aberration and provides excellent color fidelity and brightness. Proprietary anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces further boost light transmission, ensuring optimal visibility from dawn to dusk.
For added protection, the lenses are treated with Armortek coatings that guard against scratches, oil, and dirt. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, the scope is both rugged and reliable, while argon purging and O-ring seals guarantee waterproof and fogproof performance in all weather conditions.
Pros
- Massive 6-36x magnification range
- EBR-7D illuminated reticle
- L-Tec+ Zero Stop with micro-adjust
- HD optical system delivers exceptional clarity
- First focal plane reticle
- Armortek lens coatings protect against scratches, dirt, and oil
- Rugged aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Stealth shadow anodized finish
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance
Cons
- Expensive
6. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Viper HS-T 6-24×50 riflescope is a versatile option designed to bridge the gap between hunting, tactical, and precision shooting applications. As part of the Hunting & Shooting Tactical (HS-T) line, it offers shooters an effective combination of long-range performance, rugged build quality, and user-friendly adjustments.
With its 6-24x magnification range, this scope provides ample zoom for shooting at 800 yards and beyond, while the 50mm objective lens ensures excellent light-gathering capability for clear visibility in varying conditions.
At the heart of this scope is the VMR-1 Reticle (MOA), specifically crafted for accurate holds at extended ranges.
This reticle, combined with a second focal plane design, gives shooters precise reference points without becoming overly complex or cluttered. Its 15.5-inch length and streamlined profile make it a balanced choice for rifles that need long-range capability without being weighed down excessively.
The optical system is a strong point of the Viper HS-T. It incorporates fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion glass, delivering sharp resolution and excellent color fidelity across the magnification range.
Vortex’s proprietary XR coatings further enhance light transmission, ensuring shooters can push their effective range even in low-light conditions. For added durability, the lenses are protected with Armortek coatings, shielding them from scratches, dirt, and oil.
In terms of adjustability, the Viper HS-T features exposed tactical-style turrets with precise, repeatable finger-adjustable clicks, making windage and elevation adjustments fast and reliable.
The CRS Zero Stop system ensures you can always return to your original zero after dialing in temporary corrections, which is particularly valuable for long-distance shooting sessions. Complementing this is a side parallax adjustment that removes parallax error and provides crystal-clear target focus at extended ranges.
The fast-focus eyepiece allows shooters to quickly adapt the reticle to their eye, improving speed and accuracy in dynamic shooting scenarios.
Durability is another hallmark of the Viper HS-T. The one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube is argon purged and O-ring sealed, delivering waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance in challenging conditions.
Whether used for long-range hunting, target shooting, or tactical applications, this scope provides a dependable platform with a feature set that appeals to both seasoned marksmen and developing shooters.
Pros
- 6-24x magnification
- VMR-1 Reticle (MOA)
- Fully multi-coated
- Extra-low dispersion lenses
- XR coatings enhance light transmission for low-light performance
- Armortek lens coatings protect against scratches, oil, and dirt
- Exposed tactical turrets with precise, repeatable finger-adjustable clicks
- CRS Zero Stop for reliable return to zero after dialing adjustments
- Side focus parallax adjustment f
- Fast focus eyepiece ensures quick reticle adjustments
- Rugged argon-purged, O-ring sealed one-piece tube
Cons
-
Bulky
7. Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Razor HD LHT 2-10×40 SFP riflescope is purpose-built for hunters who demand a lightweight yet high-performance optic that can perform in all lighting conditions. At just a fraction of the weight of many long-range scopes, the Razor HD LHT proves that portability does not mean sacrificing quality.
Designed to maximize every second of legal hunting light, it features a stunning HD optical system that provides a crisp, tack-sharp image with excellent resolution and edge-to-edge clarity, making it highly effective for identifying targets at long distances, including the 800-yard range when paired with the right rifle and ammunition.
The optical system is one of the Razor HD LHT’s strongest selling points. Its ultimate anti-reflective coatings on every air-to-glass surface optimize light transmission, ensuring superior performance at dawn and dusk when lighting is at its most challenging.
Additionally, index-matched lenses correct color across the entire spectrum, reducing chromatic aberration and delivering vivid, true-to-life images. This makes target identification easier, even at extended ranges.
In terms of adjustability, the Razor HD LHT is equipped with the RevStop Zero System, which provides a rock-solid and easy-to-set return to zero after making turret adjustments. The locking elevation turret ensures fast, accurate adjustments while preventing accidental changes in the field, while the capped windage turret keeps your setup streamlined and protects your settings.
For added versatility, the scope includes a variable intensity illuminated center dot, which significantly enhances low-light performance by allowing you to quickly acquire targets in dim conditions.
Durability is another area where the Razor HD LHT excels. Built from a single-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum 30mm tube, the scope is rugged and shockproof, ready for challenging hunting or shooting conditions. It is also argon-purged and O-ring sealed, ensuring reliable waterproof and fogproof performance.
The external lenses are coated with Armortek protection, safeguarding them from scratches, oil, and dirt. A locking eyepiece allows shooters to fine-tune reticle focus with ease, rounding out the package for quick adaptability in the field.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design
- HD optical system
- Anti-reflective coatings
- Index-matched lenses
- RevStop Zero System
- Locking elevation turret
- Capped windage turret
- Illuminated center dot
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
- Armortek lens coatings
Cons
- Premium features come with a higher price
Factors to consider when choosing the 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards
Magnification
Magnification plays a crucial role in long-range shooting, especially at 800 yards. A scope with at least 16x or higher magnification provides the clarity and precision needed to acquire distant targets. Scopes like the Vortex Viper HS-T 6-24×50 or Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 give shooters the flexibility to zoom in for precise shots or dial down for a wider field of view when tracking moving targets. Choosing the right magnification ensures you can balance detail with situational awareness.
Reticle Type and Focal Plane
The choice between a first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) reticle significantly impacts long-range shooting. FFP reticles, found in models like the Viper PST Gen II and Diamondback Tactical, maintain accurate subtensions at all magnification levels, making them ideal for holding over and windage corrections.
On the other hand, SFP reticles, such as in the Viper HS LR or Razor HD LHT, are more common in hunting scopes and offer a clearer view at lower magnifications but only provide accurate holdovers at the highest zoom setting.
Glass Quality and Lens Coatings
The 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards. Glass quality is critical for identifying targets clearly. Vortex equips its premium models with extra-low dispersion (XD) glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses, which enhance resolution, brightness, and color fidelity. High-end options like the Razor HD Gen III and Razor HD LHT use advanced coatings that maximize light transmission and reduce glare, ensuring shooters can perform well during dawn or dusk when visibility is often most challenging.
Durability
Shooting at long ranges often means dealing with unpredictable conditions. The 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards are built with aircraft-grade aluminum tubes, argon purging, and O-ring seals, ensuring they are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Additionally, protective features like Armortek coatings prevent scratches, oil, and dirt from damaging the lenses. This durability allows the scope to maintain peak performance in rugged terrains and extreme environments.
Weight
The weight of a scope can affect its usability depending on whether you’re hunting, competing, or shooting recreationally. Lightweight scopes like the Razor HD LHT 2-10×40 are ideal for hunters who need to stay mobile, while heavier, feature-rich models such as the Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 excel in precision rifle competitions and dedicated long-range setups. Considering the intended use will help you strike the right balance between portability and advanced features.
FAQs of the 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards
- How important is glass quality for long-range shooting?
Glass quality is extremely important at 800 yards, as it directly affects target clarity and detail recognition. Vortex scopes with HD or XD glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses, such as the Razor HD Gen III and Razor HD LHT, deliver exceptional resolution, brightness, and color fidelity.
- What magnification is best for shooting at 800 yards?
For the 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards, a scope with at least 16x magnification is recommended to provide the clarity and precision needed for long-range accuracy. Scopes like the Vortex Viper HS-T 6-24×50 or Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 offer excellent zoom ranges, allowing shooters to fine-tune their field of view for both target identification and shot placement.
- Which Vortex scope is best for hunters versus competitive shooters at 800 yards?
For hunters, lightweight options like the Razor HD LHT 2-10×40 provide portability, superior low-light performance, and practical reticle designs. For competitive shooters or precision enthusiasts, higher-powered models such as the Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 or Viper PST Gen II offer advanced reticles, precise turrets, and superior glass quality, making them ideal for long-range accuracy and repeatability.
Read Also:
Best Scopes for Western Hunting
Best Scopes for Savage 17 HMR Rifle
Conclusion
Choosing the 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 800 Yards comes down to balancing your shooting style with the features that matter most, whether it’s the precision of an FFP reticle, the clarity of HD glass, or the ruggedness of aircraft-grade aluminum construction. Vortex provides a solution for every scenario, from long-range competition shooting to early morning hunting.