In the vast world of optics and hunting gear, few names are as distinguished as Vortex Optics.
Known for their high-quality products and customer-focused ethos, they have been at the forefront of innovation, providing hunters, shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts with top-notch gear.
Today, we will be focusing on one of their noteworthy products, the Crossfire II 2-7×32 Second Focal Plane Crossbow Scope Kit, also known as the Crossfire II.
Retailing at $229.99, this scope promises to deliver a powerful blend of precision and versatility, all bundled in an elegant package.
this review, we'll explore the different facets of the Crossfire II.
We will delve into its distinctive features, such as the XBR-2 Reticle and the Second Focal Plane.
We'll examine its performance in different field conditions and evaluate its overall value for money.
We will also provide insights from users who've had first-hand experience with the Crossfire II, helping you to make a well-informed decision about whether this scope is the right fit for your crossbow setup.
So, let's get started on this journey into the heart of Vortex Optics' Crossfire II, where precision meets craftsmanship, and let's find out if it truly hits the mark.
Specifications
- Magnification: 2-7x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
- Turret Style: Low Capped
- Tube Size: 30 mm
- Adjustment Graduation: 1/2 MOA
- Parallax Setting: Fixed @75 yds
- Max Windage Adjustment: 160 MOA
- Max Elevation Adjustment: 160 MOA
- Travel Per Rotation: 30 MOA
- Field of View: 57.5’ – 16.4’ @ 100 yards
- Eye Relief: 2.7 inches
- Length: 9.5 inches
- Weight: 14 oz.
Features:
- Multi-Coated: The Crossfire II has a fully multi-coated optical system. This means all air-to-glass surfaces have received multiple anti-reflective coatings to enhance light transmission, clarity, and color fidelity. This is crucial for low light conditions, where every bit of light can help you make out your target.
- Shockproof: Rugged construction endows the Crossfire II with a high level of resilience to recoil and impact. This ensures the scope will hold zero, even on powerful crossbows or under strenuous field conditions. You can count on the Crossfire II to handle the bumps and knocks that come with crossbow hunting or target shooting1.
- XBR-2® Reticle (MOA): The Crossfire II features the XBR-2® reticle, specifically designed for crossbows for a 40-yard zero and fast, accurate holdovers from 20-100 yards. This reticle is equipped with dual illumination, red or green, to ensure accuracy in low-light situations.
The Crossfire II package also includes several accessories to get you started right out of the box:
- 2 – 30mm rings
- Flip caps (set)
- Neoprene cover
- Lens cloth
- CR2032 battery
- T-15 Torx wrench.
My Personal Experience
As an avid hunter, I've had the pleasure of using many scopes over the years, each with their own pros and cons.
But I remember the first time I took the Crossfire II out into the field.
It was early in the fall, just as the leaves were starting to turn.
I'd heard a lot about the Crossfire II and was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
From the moment I attached the Crossfire II to my crossbow, I could feel the difference.
The 30mm rings that came with the kit fit perfectly, and the scope itself was noticeably lightweight.
At 14 ounces, it added minimal heft to my gear, making it easier to handle during long hours in the woods.
As the sun began to set, I was truly able to appreciate the fully multi-coated optics.
The way it gathered light was impressive, providing a bright and clear image even in the dimming forest.
The dual illuminated XBR-2 reticle shone in the fading light.
I found the green illumination particularly helpful as it contrasted well against the backdrop of the forest.
A few days later, I had the chance to test the scope's durability.
It was a rainy afternoon, and I had been tracking a buck for a while.
As I moved through the underbrush, my crossbow accidentally hit a tree.
My heart sank as I expected the worst.
However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the scope had withstood the impact without any noticeable damage.
Even more impressive was that it held its zero perfectly.
This incident was a testament to the rugged construction of the Crossfire II – it's truly built to weather the harshest hunting conditions.
The Crossfire II also shone in its ease of adjustment.
The low capped turrets offered smooth and precise control, and the 1/2 MOA adjustment graduation allowed for quick adaptations on the field.
I could easily adjust for windage and elevation, even with gloved hands in the cold.
One unforgettable experience was when I was aiming for a long-distance shot.
The deer was nearly 80 yards away, a challenging distance for any crossbow hunter.
But the Crossfire II, with its 2-7x magnification and the specially designed XBR-2 reticle, made it possible.
I was able to use the accurate holdovers from the reticle to adjust my aim, and I made the shot.
It was a rewarding moment that I attribute, in part, to the excellent performance of the Crossfire II.
In summary, the Crossfire II has been a reliable companion on my hunting trips.
Its performance, durability, and user-friendly design make it a standout choice for any hunter.
It's clear that Vortex Optics has poured a great deal of thought and engineering into the design of the Crossfire II, creating a crossbow scope that not only meets but surpasses the expectations of even the most seasoned hunters.
Price and Value for Money
At $229.99, the Crossfire II might seem like a substantial investment, particularly for those new to crossbow hunting or those who are accustomed to using less expensive scopes.
However, when considering the price, it's essential to look beyond the initial outlay and consider the value for money that the Crossfire II provides.
Firstly, Vortex Optics is a renowned brand known for its high-quality products.
Their commitment to quality and performance is reflected in the Crossfire II.
From its robust build to its detailed reticle, every aspect of the Crossfire II has been designed with precision and durability in mind.
The fully multi-coated optics and the specially designed XBR-2 reticle are standout features that you would typically find in more expensive scopes.
These features enhance visibility, accuracy, and performance, which are crucial elements in a successful hunting experience.
The shockproof design of the Crossfire II is another compelling factor.
Hunting equipment, by nature, will be exposed to rough use and varying conditions.
The resilience of the Crossfire II to withstand recoil and impact not only speaks volumes about its durability but also ensures that you won't have to replace or repair it as frequently as less sturdy models.
This longevity increases the value for money over the long term.
Finally, the scope comes with a range of accessories such as 30mm rings, a neoprene cover, flip caps, a lens cloth, a CR2032 battery, and a T-15 Torx wrench.
These inclusions mean that you won't have to spend extra on these necessities, further enhancing the value you get from your purchase.
In conclusion, while the Crossfire II does come with a higher price tag compared to some other scopes on the market, its superior performance, durable construction, and the inclusion of helpful accessories make it a worthwhile investment.
The value it provides, especially for serious hunters, is undeniable.
Therefore, if you're looking for a scope that can enhance your hunting experience and stand the test of time, the Crossfire II could be an excellent choice for you.
The Drawbacks
While the Crossfire II is a high-quality product that delivers on many fronts, like any product, it's not without its drawbacks.
One of the few criticisms that I, and some other users, have had is regarding the fixed parallax setting at 75 yards.
For those unfamiliar with the term, parallax refers to the apparent movement of the reticle in relation to the target when your eye moves off center from the eyepiece.
In most hunting scenarios, a fixed parallax isn't a significant issue, particularly with the ranges typical for crossbow hunting.
However, for precision shooting or for those who like to push their crossbows to the limits of their range, the inability to adjust parallax could be a limiting factor.
A small personal anecdote comes to mind here.
On one hunting trip, I was perched in a high tree stand and spotted a large buck at a distance slightly over the usual range.
Given the angle and the distance, I found that the fixed parallax setting did slightly affect my ability to maintain a consistent sight picture.
While it didn't ruin the outing by any means (I managed to adjust and make the shot), it did make me wish for a bit more flexibility in the parallax setting.
Another minor point is the weight of the scope.
While the Crossfire II is by no means the heaviest scope on the market, at 14 ounces, it does add some weight to your crossbow.
This might be something to consider for those who prefer a very lightweight setup or for younger or smaller stature shooters.
In conclusion, while these drawbacks are worth noting, they are relatively minor and won't significantly impact the overall performance and utility of the Crossfire II for the majority of users.
For most hunting scenarios, the Crossfire II delivers exceptional performance and value.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
As we conclude this review, the question at the forefront is, should you buy the Crossfire II? Based on its performance, features, and value for money, the answer leans heavily towards a resounding ‘yes.'
The Crossfire II is a reliable and durable scope that enhances your hunting or target shooting experience.
Its fully multi-coated optics and dual-illuminated XBR-2 reticle enhance visibility and accuracy, providing a clear edge in various lighting conditions.
The rugged construction makes it capable of withstanding recoil and impact, promising durability that can stand up to the rigors of outdoor adventures.
While there are minor drawbacks, such as the fixed parallax setting and additional weight, they are relatively small compared to the overall benefits of the Crossfire II.
Most hunters and shooters will find that these slight limitations are far outweighed by the scope's excellent features and performance.
Moreover, the Crossfire II is a product of Vortex Optics, a brand renowned for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
The company's reputation and the positive experiences of numerous users add to the confidence you can have in this product.
In terms of value for money, the Crossfire II stands out.
Yes, it comes with a higher price tag than some other scopes, but the value it offers in terms of performance, durability, and included accessories makes it a worthwhile investment.
For serious hunters or anyone looking to enhance their crossbow setup, the Crossfire II delivers.
In conclusion, if you're in the market for a high-quality, reliable, and robust scope that can elevate your hunting or target shooting experience, the Crossfire II is a fantastic choice.
It not only meets the expectations set by its price point but, in many ways, surpasses them.
The Crossfire II truly hits the mark and is a worthy addition to any crossbow setup.
