Vortex Razor 1-6x Review (Best LPVO For AR-15)
Are you looking for the best LPVO for your AR-15? Have you thought about the Vortex Razor 1-6x? This post is an in-depth and complete review of the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E variable power scope.
Whether you are just a hobbyist or are serious about setting up your rifle with a premium optic, this post will help you decide if the Razor HD 1-6x is right for you.
This article is a detailed and complete Vortex Razor 1-6x Review.
What Is The Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E?
The Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E is a low-powered variable optic (LPVO) designed to be mounted and used on AR-15 rifles or similar platforms.
It is the perfect scope for close to mid-range engagements and is like having a red dot and scope combined in one. This is the best of both worlds.
LPVOs have become very popular in recent times, and even now, the U.S. Army has announced that they will be standard issue on their new rifles. Variable power scopes are becoming the new norm.
At nearly 1/4 pound lighter than the original Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24, the “E” (Enhanced) model allows quick transitions between targets and less arm fatigue during long days on the range.
Perfect for the AR platform, the Gen II-E 1-6 is a top-tier optical solution for short to medium-range tactical applications.
Optically, it delivers the highest clarity, resolution, color accuracy, light transmission, and edge-to-edge sharpness. The glass quality is superb and the glass clarity is top-notch. This is one of the main reasons to purchase one of these.
This scope is a true 1x on the low end, and it is the best one I have seen. It is very impressive.
This is complemented by an ultra-forgiving eye box with generous eye relief for a heads-up-display-like sight picture and daylight bright illuminated center dot in the reticle for high-speed target acquisition in close quarters.
Zero-resettable turrets offer 50 MOA (20 MRAD) adjustments in a single turn, ensuring ample travel.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E Overall Design
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II is an ultra-sleek design built like a tank. The Gen II-E is packed full of unique features and is overbuilt.
This scope is well thought out and has everything you need in an LPVO. It truly is a premium optic and works flawlessly.
The scope is designed on a single-piece tube that maximizes alignment for improved accuracy and optimum visual performance and ensures strength and waterproofness.
Optical Features
APO system index-matched lenses correct color across the entire visual spectrum.
Optically indexed lenses optimize image sharpness and brightness from edge to edge.
HD lens elements premium extra-low dispersion glass delivers the ultimate resolution and color fidelity, resulting in high-definition images.
XR plus fully multi-coated ultimate anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces provide maximum light transmission for peak clarity and the pinnacle of low-light performance.
The plasma tech cutting edge coating application process provides unparalleled coating durability and performance.
The second focal plane reticle scale maintains the same sized appearance. Listed reticle subtensions can be used for estimating range, holdover, and wind drift correction are accurate at the highest magnification.
Illuminated center dot daylight bright illuminated center dot provides a precise point-of-aim in all lighting conditions.
The illuminated reticle provides precise aiming under low-light conditions
Construction Features
They are constructed from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and rigidity. The 30 mm diameter provides maximized internal adjustment and strength.
Vortex uses O-ring seals to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from penetrating the scope internally, providing reliable performance in all environments.
Fogproof Argon gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures, and the shockproof rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
Highly durable hard-coat anodization provides a low-glare matte surface and helps camouflage the shooter’s position. The finish and color also look great.
The glass has an ArmorTek scratch-resistant coating which protects the exterior lenses, and large-diameter turrets make reading and adjusting the elevation and windage fast and accurate. Caps also allow for more protection.
Internal Design Features
Vortex uses a friction reduction system to heat-treat the body of the tube. The hardened-steel pad floats on the end of the turret screw and interfaces with a hardened steel ring on the erector tube for steel-on-steel contact.
This will prevent galling or deformation of the erector screw contact point for superior durability and provide low-friction, wear-resistant performance.
The erector tube system is precision-machined from a silicon-brass alloy and treated with an advanced dry-film lubricant.
The turret screw threads are precision machined to sub-2 micron tolerances (less than 78-millionths of an inch).
Vortex tubes are machined from aircraft-grade aluminum with anti-galling properties for a lighter weight, robust and durable tube.
The springs on these scopes can handle much higher stresses than traditional flat erector springs and allow for quick and easy reticle focusing.
User-Friendly Features
The Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24 features an ultra-low profile, capped windage, and elevation turrets for streamlined performance.
It has a fast-focus eyepiece to enable quick and easy reticle focusing.
The locking side illumination is easily accessible, and the lockable illumination dial is located on the left side of the turret housing.
There are eleven different brightness intensity levels of illumination with off positions between each setting.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
Specifications of the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
| Objective Lens Diameter: | 24 mm |
| Magnification: | 1 – 6 x |
| Tube Diameter: | 30 mm |
| Reticle Focal Plane: | Second Focal Plane (SFP) |
| Exit Pupil: | 4 – 24 mm |
| Battery Type: | CR2032 |
| Battery Quantity: | 1 |
| Field of View, Linear: | 115.2 – 20.5 ft at 100 yds |
| Eye Relief: | 4 in |
| Color: | Stealth Shadow |
| Weight: | 21.5 oz |
| Fabric/Material: | Aircraft Grade Aluminum |
| Length: | 10.1 in |
| Width: | 13 in |
| Height: | 3.75 in |
| Illumination Type: | LED |
| Illumination Color: | Red |
| Brightness Settings: | 11 |
| Parallax: | 100 yds |
| Focus Range: | 100 yds to infinity |
| Lens Material: | Glass |
| Optical Coating: | XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated |
| Attachment/Mount Type: | Ring |
| Battery Life: | 150 hours |
| Water Resistance Level: | Waterproof |
| Shockproof: | Yes |
| Fogproof: | Yes |
| Finish: | Hard-Anodized |
| Package-Type: | Box |
| Magnification Type: | Variable |
| Condition: | New |
Vortex Razor HD 1-6X Gen II-E Features
- APO System
- Optically Indexed Lenses
- HD Lens Elements
- XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated
- Plasma Tech
- Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Illuminated Center Dot
- Locking Illumination
- Tube Size
- Single-Piece Tube
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
- Waterproof
- Fogproof
- Shockproof
- Hard-Anodized Finish
- ArmorTek
- Large Diameter Turrets
- Friction Reduction System
- Turret Screws
- Erector Tube System
- Fast-Focus Eyepiece
- Locking Side Illumination
Click Here to download the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E product manual
Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E Operation
As far as the operation and use of the scope, the adjustable focus has a wide range and helped me dial in a very crisp image. Even with astigmatism, I focused the scope with no problems.
The daylight illumination feature works great. It has 11 different brightness settings and an off feature between each adjustment with good tactile and audible feedback.
You can see the reticle in direct sunlight on the brightest setting with no problems.
Both the windage and elevation turrets are capped. Each click is equal to 1/2 MOA. (Half an inch at 100 yards)
The adjustments have a screw where you can set your zero stop. That way, you can quickly return to your zero.
Again, I was very impressed with the 1x. It quickly got a sight picture and had excellent edge clarity with no distortion.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E Reticle Options
There are three different choices when it comes to choosing a reticle for your Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
- JM-1 BDC
- VMR-2 MRAD
- VMR-2 MOA
| Reticle | JM-1 BDC (MOA) | VMR-2 (MRAD) | VMR-2 (MOA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/2 MOA | .2 MRAD | 1/2 MOA |
| Travel per Rotation | 50 MOA | 20 MRAD | 50 MOA |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 150 MOA | 43 MRAD | 150 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 150 MOA | 43 MRAD | 150 MOA |
| Parallax Setting | 100 yards | 100 yards | 100 yards |
This comes down to personal preference, and they all work exceptionally well. Most people choose a reticle that is familiar to them or one style they have experience with.
JM-1 BDC Reticle
With that being said, the JM-1 BDC reticle is the most popular and the easiest to use.
It is a second focal plane reticle meaning that when you zoom in and adjust the magnification, the reticle will stay the same size.
The JM-1 BDC reticle is designed to be zeroed at 200 yards and work with various cailbers and barrel lengths.
This is the setup that most people go with because of the ease of use and the different caliber and barrel length compatibility.
VMR-2 MRAD
The VMR-2 MRAD reticle is based on the milliradian or MRAD for short. This type of reticle tends to be more useful at longer ranges.
For an LPVO, you might not want this type of reticle on a short to mid-range rifle setup.
The MRAD can effectively determine ranges, holdovers, and windage.
This is also a second focal plane reticle. The advantage of an SFP reticle is that it always maintains the same ideally-sized appearance.
When shooting with this SFP scope, be aware that the listed reticle subtensions used for estimating range, holdover, and wind drift correction are only accurate at the highest magnification.
VMR-2 MOA
The final reticle choice for the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II is the VMR-2 MOA.
MOA is preferred for targets at shorter ranges, making it another good option for an LPVO.
MOA rifle scopes are a popular choice because most don’t shoot highly long range.
This is even less so on a primary battle rifle.
The MOA reticle is also a second focal plane reticle, and it is easier to use a minute of angle adjustment because this is a familiar formula to most shooters.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount
One of the best mounts for this scope is the Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount.
It will securely attach the scope to your rifle, and you will not have to worry about it shifting once correctly installed. It is a one-piece cantilever design perfect for AR-15 rifles or similar platforms.
This ring size is set to accept 30mm tubes, so it is precisely what you need for the Vortex Razor HD Gen II.
When you use this mount, it will withstand the recoil from your rifle while consistently holding zero.
| Color: | Black |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Ring Height: | 40 mm |
| Length: | 6.34 in |
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount
Vortex Precision QR Cantilever Mount
If you prefer a mount with a quick-release function, then the Vortex Precision QR Cantilever Mount is the best choice.
This is a good option for anyone who plans on swapping the scope on multiple rifles. If you attach the mount with the scope installed to the same spot on your rail, it will still hold zero.
This is also a 30mm ring style and will accept the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II without any issues.
| Color: | Black |
| Finish: | Type 3 Mil-Spec Anodized |
| Fabric/Material: | 6061-T6 Aluminum |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Base/Mount Type: | Picatinny |
| Ring Height: | 1.45 in |
| Tube Diameter: | 30 mm |
| Gun Make: | AR Platform |
| Gun Model: | AR-15 |
| Gun Type: | Rifle |
| Length: | 5.93 in |
| Height: | 1.45 in |
| Weight: | 8.9 oz |
| Distance Between Rings: | 63.9 mm |
- Precision machined from 6061 T6 aluminum.
- Hard coat Type 3 Mil-Spec anodized for a lifetime of performance.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Precision QR Cantilever Mount
Vortex Switchview Throw Lever
Because of the stiffness of the magnification wheel, you will need to get the Vortex Switchview Throw Lever for this scope. This is an absolute must.
This eliminates any hassle of adjusting the knob, and you can easily change it with or without gloves.
It also works great to find without looking, to make quick adjustments even on those cold days with gloves on, compared to fumbling for a ring with numb fingers. It is quickly installed, has a very secure mounting, and is solidly built.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Switchview Throw Lever
Vortex VIP Warranty
The Vortex VIP warranty is about you. It “s about taking care of you after the sale. VIP stands for a Very Important Promise to you, the customer.
They will repair or replace your Vortex product in the event it becomes damaged or defective at no charge to you. If they cannot repair your product, they will replace it with a product in perfect working order of equal or better physical condition.
It doesn’t matter how it happened, whose fault it was, or where you purchased it. You can count on the VIP Warranty for all Vortex Optics Rifle Scopes, prism scopes, red dots, rangefinders, binoculars, spotting scopes, tripods, and monoculars.
Vortex has the best warranty from any company I have seen in my lifetime.
- Unlimited Lifetime Warranty
- Fully transferable
- No warranty card to fill out
- No receipt needed to hang on to
- If you ever have a problem, no matter the cause, they promise to take care of you
Note: The VIP Warranty does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage, or cosmetic damage that does not hinder the performance of the product.
Personal Experience
I enjoy my Razor Gen II-E. The glass is superb, has outstanding clarity, is fast up close, and still very accurate at long distances.
My scope was indeed tight, and adjusting the magnification took some force. I would say the scope throw lever is needed. After some use and a break-in period, it does loosen up.
I didn’t find it too heavy and could transition from near to distant targets without any problems.
The throw lever helped with the tightness of the magnification adjustment, and the Vortex mount works great, and it is rock solid and holds zero.
Overall I am very impressed, and this is a worthy optic I recommend to anyone looking for an LPVO and tend to use this more than a red dot sight. It is an awesome scope and you won’t be disappointed with it.
This is a great optic and is now my favorite optic.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
Final Considerations
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E is lighter weight and has superb clarity. No hazy edges or distracting hues or color. It has excellent eyebox forgiveness and works well for people that have poor vision or any eye issues.
If you are looking for a premium LPVO with all the features and performance you could ask for, then the Razor HD Gen II is excellent.
It has crystal clear glass, more versatile than red dot sights, but will give you a little more added weight.
Having this is better than a red dot. With a red dot, you are limited to its abilities. The Razor HD Gen II offers so much more versatility. It truly is an amazing scope.
Common Questions – FAQ
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up to date prices)
- Vortex Razor HD 1-6x Gen II-E
- Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount
- Vortex Precision QR Cantilever Mount
- Vortex Switchview Throw Lever
Have you ever used a Vortex Razor?
Did you initially purchase a cheaper alternative?
Let me know in the comments below.
Further reading on Firstworldcrusader.com: Are you interested in learning more about guns and gear?
This list of the Best Red Dot Sights can help you choose the best optic for your rifle.
In addition, here are the Best AR-15 Upgrades & Accessories that can help you get more out of your primary battle rifle.
