welcome to my Vortex Spitfire 3x Review in 2024.
As someone who spends a significant amount of time on the range and in the field, I always look for gear that combines quality with functionality.
The Spitfire 3x caught my attention, and I’ve spent considerable time testing it. Let’s explore what makes this optic stand out in a crowded market.
Overview of the Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x
The Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x represents a paradigm shift in the world of red dot scopes. This optic isn’t just another run-of-the-mill addition to a shooter’s arsenal. It’s a game-changer that enhances shooting experiences, whether at the range or in the field.
With its unique blend of design and technology, the Spitfire 3x elevates precision and reliability, promising to transform how shooters interact with their targets.
Core Specifications of the Vortex Spitfire 3x
| Specification | Details |
| Magnification | 3x |
| Reticle Type | Etched Crosshair |
| Illumination | Red/Green |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32 mm |
| Eye Relief | 2.8 inches |
| Weight | 15.4 oz |
| Length | 5.5 inches |
| Color | Black |
| Battery Life (lowest setting) | Up to 3000 hours |
What’s in the box?
- The Vortex Spitfire 3x Scope
- Lens Covers
- Mounting Hardware
- Cleaning Cloth
- User Manual
First Look & Impression
Upon first glance, the Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x impresses with its robust construction and sleek design. It feels solid and well-built in hand, a testament to its durability.
The clear optics and crisp reticle immediately catch the eye, indicating the scope’s high-quality performance. It’s not just another optic; it’s a sophisticated tool designed to enhance shooting accuracy and experience.
Who Should Get Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x
The Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x is ideal for shooters seeking a reliable, high-performance optic that combines precision and versatility.
Whether you’re an avid hunter or a tactical shooter, this red dot scope is designed to elevate your shooting skills.
Types of guns suitable for this Red Dot
- AR-15 rifles
- Hunting rifles
- Tactical rifles
- Carbines
Features of Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x
1. Durability
The Vortex Spitfire 3x stands out with its rugged, durable build. Engineered from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope promises resilience under various conditions.
The hard anodized coating adds a layer of protection against scratches and impacts, making it an ally for rough outdoor use. Its design isn’t just about toughness; it’s also about maintaining performance in adverse conditions.
The scope’s shockproof construction ensures it can withstand the recoil of high-caliber firearms, while its fog-proof and waterproof features, achieved through nitrogen purging and O-ring seals, make it reliable in diverse weather situations.
My Testing
During my testing, the Spitfire 3x’s durability impressed me the most. I’ve taken it through some harsh conditions, from rainy days to accidental drops on rocky terrain.
Despite these challenges, it showed no signs of wear or loss in functionality. The scratch-resistant surface remained intact, and the scope held its zero impeccably, even after a few bumps and knocks.
2. Optical Quality and Reticle
The Spitfire 3x boasts exceptional optical clarity thanks to its fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings. This technology enhances light transmission, providing bright, clear views even in low-light conditions.
The scope features an EBR-556B MOA reticle etched directly onto the prism. This etching technique ensures the reticle is always visible, with or without battery-powered illumination. The reticle offers selectable red/green illumination, catering to various lighting conditions and personal preferences.
My Testing
Through my use, the clarity of the glass stood out. The image was consistently sharp and bright, making target acquisition swift and effortless.
The illuminated reticle, in both red and green, proved versatile for different backgrounds and lighting. I found the green illumination particularly useful in wooded areas.
3. Eye Relief & Field of View
The Vortex Spitfire 3x offers an eye relief of 2.8 inches, which is adequate for most shooting applications. It’s designed to provide a comfortable viewing distance while still maintaining a wide field of view.
The scope’s design also ensures a clear and unobstructed sight picture, which is essential for rapid target acquisition and situational awareness.
My Testing
During testing, the eye relief was sufficient for quick and comfortable shooting, although I did wish for a bit more space at times, especially on rifles with significant recoil.
The field of view was ample for close to mid-range shooting, facilitating easy tracking of moving targets. However, shooting with both eyes open was somewhat challenging due to the limited eye box.
4. Mounting System and Adjustability
The Spitfire 3x comes equipped with a versatile mounting system, compatible with Picatinny rails. This feature offers flexibility in mounting positions, catering to different firearm types and shooter preferences.
The mount is robust and secure, ensuring the scope stays in place even with heavy recoil. Additionally, the scope features easily adjustable windage and elevation turrets with crisp, audible clicks, offering precise and hassle-free adjustments.
My Testing
The mounting system was straightforward and secure. Once mounted, the scope stayed firmly in place, showing no signs of shifting even after several rounds. Adjusting the turrets for windage and elevation was a breeze.
Each click was distinct and precise, allowing for accurate zeroing of the scope. I achieved a consistent point of aim quickly, and it held true throughout my testing period.
5. Battery Life and Efficiency
The Vortex Spitfire 3x is equipped with a CR 2032 battery, renowned for its longevity and efficiency. This scope is designed to maximize battery life, offering up to 250 hours of use on the brightest setting and an impressive 3,000 hours on the lowest.
This longevity is crucial for users who rely on their optics in various conditions and for extended periods. The efficient power use also means less worry about battery changes in critical moments, ensuring reliability when it matters most.
My Testing
In my extensive testing, the battery life of the Spitfire 3x was exceptional. Even with regular use at medium brightness settings, the need to replace the battery was infrequent.
This reliability provides peace of mind, especially during long hunting trips or extended shooting sessions. It’s reassuring to know that the optic won’t fail due to battery issues when you’re in the middle of an important shot.
Footprint and Mounting Considerations
The Vortex Spitfire 3x, with its compact and efficient design, has a minimal footprint on any rifle. It doesn’t add excessive bulk or weight, making it ideal for various shooting styles and requirements.
The mounting process is user-friendly, catering to both novices and experienced shooters. It’s crucial to ensure the mount is securely fastened and properly aligned for optimal performance.
This scope’s flexibility in mounting options further adds to its appeal, accommodating different shooting preferences and scenarios.
Pros and Cons of Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x
Pros
- Exceptional durability and rugged construction
- Superior optical clarity with fully multi-coated lenses
- Versatile red/green illuminated reticle for various lighting conditions
- Long battery life, reducing the need for frequent replacements
- User-friendly eye relief and wide field of view
- Robust mounting system compatible with Picatinny rails
- Compact design, adding minimal weight and bulk to firearms
- Unconditional, unlimited lifetime warranty from Vortex
Cons
- The eye relief may be limited for some users, especially on high-recoil firearms
- No capability for absolute co-witness with iron sights
- Shorter eye relief and smaller field of view compared to some red dot scopes
- Slightly heavier than some other optics in the same category
- It may not be ideal for long-range precision shooting due to fixed magnification
Final Verdict
As a professional shooter who has thoroughly tested the Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x, I can confidently say that it’s a standout choice in the realm of red dot scopes.
Its blend of durability, optical clarity, and user-friendly features makes it a versatile tool for a wide range of shooting applications.
From its robust construction to the precision it offers, the Spitfire 3x is more than just an optic; it’s a reliable partner for any shooting enthusiast, whether you’re engaging in tactical scenarios, hunting, or target shooting. Its performance in diverse conditions has been impressive, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter.
FAQ’s
How far can the Vortex Spitfire 3X shoot?
The Vortex Spitfire 3x, with its BDC reticle, is designed for effective use with the 5.56 cartridge, enabling rapid target acquisition and holdovers out to 650 yards.
What is a 3X scope good for?
A 3x scope is ideal for target shooting up to 100 meters, hunting smaller game, or for property defense, offering a versatile range of applications.
Is the Vortex Spitfire night vision compatible?
Yes, the Spitfire HD Gen II sight includes ultra-low brightness settings that are compatible with night-vision equipment.
Is a 3x scope good for close range?
Absolutely, a 3x scope is effective for close-range shooting, allowing clear target engagement up to 100 yards, while also offering the capability for longer ranges when necessary.