How much better can the z6i be than the Vortex 1-6?

[DefenderU]

I need a new scope and have the cash for the z6i but that doesn't mean it's worth buying for me.

Are any top shooters using the Burris Extreme or the Votex 1-6 with the 556 reticle?

I'm going to Shot Show so I might wait to see if anything new pops up unless I run across a deal I can't pass up

[Albertl35]

The Vortex (25oz) is also much heavier than the Z6i (16oz) and it is amazing what a 1/2 lb difference can make to handling. For glass and clarity, you should check both out.

Edited January 11, 2014 by Albertl35

[Fullauto_Shooter]

In the interest of transparency, I'll say upfront that I'm fortunate enough to be sponsored by Vortex but what follows is my 100% honest opinion. I ran a Z6I BRT (actually a couple of them) in a bunch of matches over the course of 2+ seasons and thought it was the be-all, end-all 3-gun scope. I got both of the Swaro's used and felt like they were a bargain at a $1.8-2K price I paid - my life was great and all was right with the world.

Then I looked through my friend's (Alamoshooter) Vortex Razor 1-6 and was astounded to find a much less expensive scope with glass that's, in my opinion, superior of the Swaro (others may disagree on this point, but I've never talked to anyone who didn't think the Razor's clarity was at least as good as the Swaro).

I also REALLY like the smaller dot on the Razor as this gives a more precise aiming point for zeroing and shooting smaller targets. I'm a fan of simpler reticles and the Razor has marginally less "going on" in it's reticle when compared to the Swaro - though both reticles are very good.

Some point to the fact the Razor weighs more than the Swaro and I guess that's a valid point but I carried a Razor-topped M4 during my last tour in Afghanistan and just didn't feel the few extra ounces was a big deal given that our basic combat load was over 60lbs . I'll gladly pay the price of a little added weight to get an optic that's built like a tank.

In the end, I sold one of my Swaros and will sell the last one between now and the spring. Even if you pay at, or near, full retail for the Razor 1-6, - you'll still have a savings of around $900-1K compared to the cost of a new Swaro. For me it was an easy decsion to go with the Razor.

Edited January 11, 2014 by Fullauto_Shooter

[DefenderU]

Great insight. I'm going vortex. Thanks