VORTEX StrikeEagle 3-18x44 EBR-7c Reticle - First Person Review

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This Vortex StrikeEagle 3-18x44 has everything everyone could want in a mid-ish budget DMR optic. However, can it deliver on all of its tasks? Lets find out.
00:00 - Physical Overview
06:02 - Reticle Overview
07:30 - Turret Twistin'
08:16 - Tracking Test
09:23 - Rooftop Day
12:12 - Eyebox
14:17 - 1ky
15:18 - Rooftop Night
16:38 - Comparison - Meopta Optika6 3-18x50
19:43 - Comparison - Primary Arms SLx 4-16x44
22:15 - Comparison - Primary ARms GLx 3-18x44
25:01 - Comparison - Nightforce ATACR 4-16x42
24:41 - Comparison - Pre and Post Warranty & Conclusion
#vortex #vortexoptic #mpvo #fpr
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[@DkGaston]

Can you somehow get everyone who does review videos to copy your format? Seriously...you actually provide a dense flow of information from start to finish with no fillers. I feel like my time amd attention as a viewer is being respected and that's sadly rare.

[@FMDad-dm5qo]

There are people still doing optics reviews who don’t do the high-detail first person perspective pioneered here. I don’t know what to tell them, it’s like trying to dogfight a late war P-51D in a biplane

[@guyinthewrinkledwrangler]

Nope, the solution is, you just have to watch each time one of his videos drop, and diligently comment on what you would like him to review. He will get around to it.

[@DkGaston]

@guyinthewrinkledwrangler That solves my gun optics needs, but I want videos like this on every type of product I want to buy. The world is full of corporate butt kissers and "personalities" with no substance. Actually breaking down items and co.paring.them objectively on criteria that matter to equivalent alternatives is a lot art.

[@guyinthewrinkledwrangler]

@@DkGaston agreed. But, like you stated, anything original, or genuine is a scarcity nowadays. Honestly, if you at all can, be the change you are seeking.

[@franklewis7100]

I just picked this scope up recently. Looking forward to watching your review on it.

[@sd04dave1]

Great review as always. Very helpful when you went through your recommendations of ....."if I wanted best in class 3-18...., if I wanted to save some money I'd go..... etc."

[@bemo4313]

I did laugh when you said : “It went back to Vortex under warranty” within the first 2’ of the video. This is exactly why I’m done with Vortex. 10 years ago I was the first to promote Vortex around me. But now.. I’m done. Done. Done. I used to have 10 Vortex product, 8 of them were send back for warranty. The even gave me my money back on the Spark SolAR, after three bad units were send to me. Vortex opened a door 15y ago but are now way out of touch. Vortex is the Glock of optic. I stick with Holosun/Sig for my budget red dot and Leupold for my scope. Vortex will never see a dime from me anymore. Thank you for the complete review, it’s very interesting and informative.

[@anthonyruiz9906]

Perfect video, been looking for an mpvo

[@IE_Tiger]

So glad you made the comparison to the Optika 6. It's important to understand that these optics do not stand alone and that there will always be competition. I happily spend a little more money for made in USA/EU over made in China.

[@draksia]

Definitely glad I went with the Meopta

[@spicychich1718]

Thanks for the review! I used to have one on a Mk12 build and got 2nd at a local PRS match with this combo. Same thoughts on glass quality being okay. I thought it was tricky getting a decent image with the parallax knob. Ended up selling it and other items for a NF ATACR 4-16x.

[@chaddawg1084]

Great review thank you. Got one on Memorial Sale with Mil off EUOptic for 550 so it'll buff and probably turn into a .22 rifle topper.

[@anthonyjohns9404]

I think you should start doing some kind of grading system where you give a score for each category and every scope gets an end score. I think you where a little hard on this scope and let your opinion show through more then the facts. Once these drop in price a bit which they will they will be an insane value for around $550. They check literally every single box and have very adequate glass quality for a Chinese optic and even shit on the GLX as you mentioned. As much as I like your reviews I would like to see more hard facts and specs rather than insanely fine hair splitting opinions. I am running on of these on a 18” 6mm ARC noveske barrel and it is crazy good. I paid $750 and I won’t even be mad when they drop a couple hundred dollars because I wanted one when they were new. I wanted this reticle with these specs and have no regrets. I can’t see going to anything else for a MPVO unless it’s a ATACR.

[@jason91notch]

I'd love to see your review of the new Venom line. I just bought the 3-15x venom and it's shockingly good, at least to my eyes. The glass is indistinguishable between it and my razor LHT hunting rifle scope.

[@FinnOliver]

I would love to know whether the Viper HD is worth the extra money compared to the Venom.

[@FinnOliver]

Man, right on time. I was about to buy it. Now I’m on the fence. I really love the warranty with vortex - especially for use on a hunting rifle. Meopta does not have the best reputation when it comes to warranty.

[@muffins4tots]

Look for deals, I just got a PST gen 2 5-25 for 600 bucks

[@jimbudde265]

Want to see you review the new model vipers

[@GrumpMaster]

I’ve been a bit frustrated with MPVO options. I currently have a PA GLx 2.5-10 on my “SPR”-ish build and a GLx 4-16x on my AR-10. The 4-16x is a good match for where it’s at but I’m left wanting on the 2.5-10x. I’ve been hoping for more 2-12x options. I’d like the lower bottom end and I’d really like the extra 2x on the top compared to my 2.5-10x. I’m firmly on team piggyback for dots so MPVO’s with massive elevation turrets are a problem for me. Something like lighter weight with a solid BDC reticle would be great too. I know scopes are always about compromise. I can’t have it all but more 2-12’s that addressed most of my wants, and purpose built for the “SPR” role would be exciting for me.

[@bghiggy]

Athlon helos 2-12 is pretty awesome for the price. I love mine. I just put a 30mm weaver Pic rail on it and it clears the turret with a holosun 507c.

[@GrumpMaster]

@@bghiggy Thanks man. I actually emailed Athlon a while back about this 2-12x. I asked what the measurement was from the scope tube to the top of the elevation turret. It was a bit awkward but they told me they don’t give that measurement out because it varies based on its adjustment. I replied that I understand how it’ll vary but just asked for a ballpark or min/max measurement. They still just told me they wouldn’t give me that info…? I’m not saying they have bad CS or anything, they replied back quickly. It was just odd and I didn’t buy it not knowingits height.

[@BT-ld4wi]

Im looking to bump up mag from my athlon 2-12 to a 3-18. Im blown away with the quality on the ares overall and dont want to step back when moving up. Do you think the meopta is the way to go? I was heavily considering the glx until i saw this

[@TheLastSiIver]

This exact model is the first scope I have ever owned. I was fairly happy with it but maybe ignorance is bliss. I might upgrade it to the new 5-25 vortex HD or the Gen 2 3-18. Thanks for the video!

[@muffins4tots]

Midway has a sale on the PST gen 2 5-25 for $600 plus 10 percent off if you make an account

[@jamesmeals1430]

Used PST gen2s go for around the same price used. They are so well proven and are a much better optic overall. A quick ebay search seems to be the answer to most price issues

[@cjrodriguez34]

@C_DOES Any possibility you will do the Vortex Venom 3-18-x44? In theory it's under this Strike Eagle, but over the Diamondback...my biggest curiosity is if they use a different glass because it is not illuminated and could possibly provide a clearer image because of that.

[@henrynelson11]

I agree that the EBR-7 reticle is rather cluttered and isn't super clear on most settings that aren't near max magnification; that said, having windage hashmarks near the centre point is very important in LR shooting to make quick corrections ― this is essential for disciplines like PRS and ELR. Meanwhile, a reticle like that on the Meopta and the SLx would be unsuitable because of the lack of windage marks near the centre reticle to correct for, e.g., incorrect wind calls. Regardless, thank you for this review!

[@C_oprator89]

Yea my shooting buddy got this optic and yes haven't finished the review yet but what a dang scope. Hope I dont regret this comment after finishing the video lol

[@olgertshomics9088]

Last time I bought Delta Stryker HD 1-6 because I soo your video about it, I’m very grateful about that. Now, If it’s possible, and there is a possibility, please make a review on new Delta scope - Delta Stryker HD 3,5x21x44. Thank you

[@KommBat]

How will the PA GLx 2.5-10x44 fit in the MPVO world? Could you do a review on this one ?! Thank you and shout out from Berlin

[@ChocolateStranger]

C, if you could give us a rank of MPVOs in that middle cost range for 3-18 magnification, please. Looking to give one as a gift. Thanks in advance.

[@TacticalTack]

Got a 4-16x50 Primary Arms GLX coming tomorrow. Looking forward to comparing it to my slx 4-16x44.

[@KretinD]

Really like my Glx 4-16 mildot. Wanted to get an 4-16 Athena mil but I think they discontinued it.

[@jaredmatthews9403]

Please tell me how the GLX performed! Worth it over the SLX?

[@TacticalTack]

@jaredmatthews9403 I ended up returning the GLX. The price to performance factor wasn't there. Locking turrets were nice but apart from that and weight the slx did everything as good or better.

[@jaredmatthews9403]

@@TacticalTack wow that is interesting! How was the glass on the GLX compared to the great SLX? I thought about buying both like you did and returning one.

[@TacticalTack]

​@jaredmatthews9403 I don't think there was a noticeable difference though I believe the ocular lens in the slx was larger than the glx. I really like the idea of the glx being made in the Phillipines as opposed to China, but having owned the 4-16, the 2.5-10, and the 3-18 glx series I'm disappointed in the quality boost vs the slx, especially when you take the cost into consideration. Lotta squeeze for a little juice.

[@Jjsaba2008]

I’m actually wondering why all the lower models vortex scopes come with throw levers and when I buy the razors, they don’t have one 😢

[@KevinWood44]

I've never been fan of the EBR7 it's center dot is cluttered. The Razor Gen 3 reticle is incredible, even the Razor LHT has a better reticle. Personally for an SPR or any hunting rifle I'd go with the Razor LHT (if choosing Vortex) and the Razor Gen 3 for any PRS/ELR rifle. I'm buying the LHT for my 18" .223 Wylde SPR at 21oz it's the best scope and weight in the class

[@BlueR53]

I have an NX8 1-8 capped DMX that I’m looking to get rid of to fund the purchase of an MPVO similar to this one. First time I’ve had to sell a scope of this value. Wondering if you had any tips on the easiest to sell it? I’m willing to loose a little money for the sake of convenience in the form of a trade in or something like that. I bought it from Eurooptic originally.

[@hdub6527]

I’ve had great luck selling on Reddit r/gunaccessoriesforsale aka GAFS. Bought an NX8 and sold an ATACR and NX8. NX8 goes for 1200-1400ish usually.

[@Ripper13F1V]

W/ Mil discount this was originally $450ish shipped. I could justify it at that. But not at $700+. That's in PST territory. And somehow the Viper HD is same or less depending on model. The HD should be a higher tier optically and not made in PRC. So not sure what's up with the pricing.

[@joshkrebs1999]

Your timing is impeccable! I was in store yesterday nearly dead set on buying the Strike Eagle. After looking through it, I came away less impressed than I thought I would be. For $750, I expect higher quality than this. I did get a chance to look at the new Viper Hd's. The glass is excellent, and I like the simple bdc reticle. I just don't understand why the 3-15 is in sfp. That seems like a huge miss to me.

[@msquared9605]

Because not all scopes are made for longe range shooting. A good majority of them are made for hunting. But I’m pretty sure the 3-15 is in both first and second focal plane. The new viper hd 2-10 is the only model that comes in only sfp I believe

[@muffins4tots]

Midway has a sale on the PST gen 2 5-25s for 600 bucks, I've been extremely impressed with mine so far.

[@vernonarmstrong3738]

If you are hunting you cant beat SFP scopes. Most of the time you want the widest field of vie you can get, and only really zoom in to count antlers and such. After all, you targed is a 9 inch pie tin.

[@joshkrebs1999]

@vernonarmstrong3738 I agree. For hunting, I prefer sfp in most cases. I do, however, have some limited use cases where I would prefer ffp over sfp.

[@joshkrebs1999]

@@msquared9605 Only the Viper hd 5-25 comes in ffp, the rest are sfp.

[@ScottKyu]

How is this comparing to Athlon scopes?

[@cengizhan1478]

Please review the Vector Optics Continental Series

[@evanharnois8686]

First thing I noticed on my 3-15 GEN two PST, with the newer radical. Aiming dot. Is way too small. You cannot shoot at a black aiming. Dot because the Senator of the radical gets lost.

[@ProjectArms4719]

Will you ever review the Zeiss LRP S3?

[@thepracticalrifleman]

I’ve got one of these. I bought it when it first came out with the intention of putting it on a .22 lr. I’m not in love with the reticle. Eye-box is fair. Tracking on mine is spot-on. It is a good value for the VIP price. I’m a bit of an optics snob, but was ok with it for the price. I think the biggest problem is everybody demands high magnification erectors. 4x and 5x erectors are easier and a better choice.

[@dustbustr91]

tshirt: i like my women like my eyepieces

[@CDOES]

I'd wear it. Hell I'd have to make it first

[@wisco_guy]

The PA GLX 2.5-10x Raptor and 4-16x HUD-DMR are fantastic scopes for the money. Every manufacturer is going to have hits and misses. Just do your research before buying.

[@freshofftheplane]

Meopta O6 for the win

[@bghiggy]

Even on the 5-25 the Reticle is pretty much unusable at 5x. I'll never understand why scope companies put out scopes with a low magnification on the bottom end where the Reticle is basically invisible.

[@GuacIsExtra99]

Has anybody ran the vortex venom 3-15? It was $250 with coupons the other day

[@jason91notch]

Yes, I bought one about a month ago and I *love* it, especially for the price. The glass is better than it has the right to be at that price point.

[@Indarow]

I got “like” number 223… nice. Does it mean anything? Nope, but that’s besides the point.

[@kristijanmedved6066]

Zeiss and Swarovski pls

[@northman77]

"Sending it back" is the reason I wont ever buy another one...

[@brandonrupp5880]

Someone needs to tell the tree in your yard to get the heck out of the way.

[@SnapD24]

Bruh, why you gonna do the Vortex dirty by putting up the ATACR next to it?! Did it insult yo momma?

[@ironpanther689]

I love my Arken 4-16 I believe people are sleeping on them.

[@sooc9380]

Thats a lot of halo ghosting and chromatic aberration ..... really makes me think an element was out of wack.... or the glass sucks coming from being a Nikon guy..

[@kellym3531]

This is about $400 to high. Come on, bikini caps? That's just one of the problems I have with it.

[@narutobroken]

I can’t get over those reticles. Just not for me

[@GuacIsExtra99]

What mil do you prefer?

[@Captain_Spaulding_01]

Chinese?

[@The_Critical_Critic]

Lost me @ $750........................

[@ber1285]

Do you have a Instagram?