Table of Contents
Introduction
I recently had the pleasure of upgrading my firearm with the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sights, and it has been a complete game-changer. I have used it for several shooting applications ranging from hunting to self-defense situations, and I must say, it delivers beyond expectations.
Cannot go wrong with a vortex
One of the things I appreciate about this product is the versatility it provides, allowing for seamless use across different firearms. Its fully multi-coated lenses provide a crystal-clear view that enhances accuracy with every shot, while unlimited eye relief makes target acquisition rapid and effortless.
Very accurate and easy to set up
The Strikefire II Red Dot Sights is easy to install, and the controls are readily accessible at the rear of the sight, making it easy to use. Another standout feature that I love about this product is the option to switch between red and green dots, providing added flexibility in varying lighting conditions.
A few drawbacks
That being said, there are a few minor drawbacks to this product. For starters, the power controls can be challenging to turn on, which can be frustrating in a self-defense situation. Also, the up arrow button that controls the power takes a while to activate, making it cumbersome to use.
However, these minor cons are far outweighed by the impressive performance and value for money offered by the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sights. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and functional red dot sight, then this product should undoubtedly be on your shortlist.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetics
When I first received the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design. The matte black finish looks great on my AR platform and gives it a very professional look. The unit is compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver without adding too much extra weight.
Form Factor
The Strikefire II has a single-piece chassis that is both durable and lightweight. I appreciate the fact that Vortex Optics has designed this sight to be shockproof, which means it can withstand recoil and impact without breaking. Additionally, the unlimited eye relief feature allows for rapid target acquisition, which is particularly useful in situations where speed is critical.
Durability
The construction of the Strikefire II is impressive; it is nitrogen-purged and has o-ring seals to ensure waterproof and fogproof performance. I have used it in various weather conditions, and it has held up incredibly well. I have dropped it multiple times, and it still works well without any visible signs of damage.
Overall, the design and build quality of the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight are excellent. It is both aesthetically pleasing and durable, with a lightweight form factor that makes it easy to use. Despite some users reporting difficulties in turning it on and off, I have not had any problems with this feature and find it easy to use. For those looking for a reliable and accurate red dot sight, the Vortex Optics Strikefire II comes highly recommended.
Optical Performance
Dual-Color Dot Option
One of the standout features of the Strikefire II is its ability to switch between red and green dots. As an older shooter with astigmatism, I prefer the green dot, but it’s great to have the option to switch back and forth. I can easily change the dot color and brightness to adjust to different lighting and shooting conditions. With 10 brightness settings, I can easily find my preferred setting for different environments. Additionally, the dot can be adjusted to be more pinpoint or larger if needed, making it perfect for both long-range and close-range shooting.
Clarity and Visibility
The fully multi-coated lenses provide a clear and bright point of view, making it easy to acquire the target and aim accurately. I’ve used it both at the range and in the field, and I’ve been impressed with its clarity and the detail it provides. No matter the lighting conditions, I can see my target clearly and make precise shots.
Eye Relief
The Strikefire II offers unlimited eye relief, allowing for rapid target acquisition. This has been particularly helpful for me as an older shooter, as I don’t always have the best eyesight. But with the unlimited eye relief, I can acquire targets quickly and with ease. It’s a great enhancement to my shooting experience, making me feel more confident and in control of every shot.
Functionality and Value
As someone who is always on the lookout for reliable red dot sights, the Vortex Optics Strikefire II is definitely a contender worth considering. The functionality and value of this optic are some of its most attractive features for me.
Ease of Use
One of the features that stand out to me is the ease of use. The power controls located at the rear of the optic make it extremely straightforward to access and adjust the settings. Additionally, the ability to switch between the red and green dot colors and adjust the brightness settings easily is especially useful for anyone shooting in varying conditions.
It’s also worth noting that the Strikefire II is very user-friendly when it comes to installation and zeroing. Even someone with little experience with firearm accessories can install and zero the optic without any problems.
Battery Life
Another significant feature that made me opt for the Strikefire II is the longevity of the battery. The CR2 battery used in this optic lasts for a long time, and there’s no need for frequent replacements or recharging. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference for me as I prefer not to have to worry about my equipment when I’m in the field.
Value for Money
Lastly, the price point of the Strikefire II Red Dot Sight is perhaps its most attractive feature. For an optic that’s packed with features and tough enough to withstand impact and recoils, its value for money is unbeatable. It’s also reassuring to know that the Vortex VIP warranty backs the product. This warranty makes the Strikefire II an even smarter investment, as it’s a 100% unlimited lifetime warranty-fully transferable, and no receipt needed.
In conclusion, the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight is an excellent investment for anyone in the market for an effective and high-quality red dot sight offering several useful features.
Pros
Here are some reasons why I think the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sights is a great buy:
Versatile Dual-Color Dot Option
One of the notable features of the Strikefire is its dual-color dot option. The shooter has the freedom to choose between red or green dot reticles, making it adaptable to different lighting conditions. It’s easy to toggle between the two colors using the intuitive controls.
Crystal Clear Optics
I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the lenses. The multi-coated lenses provide a clear and bright picture, making it easier for me to acquire my targets quickly. The unlimited eye relief allows me to maintain my shooting position without needing to worry about eye strain.
Durable Build
The single-piece chassis of the Strikefire II is designed to be compact and lightweight but still able to withstand recoil and impact. The shockproof performance is a testament to its durability. The nitrogen purging and o-ring seals ensure fog-proof and waterproof performance.
Reasonable Price
Lastly, the Strikefire II is reasonably priced for the features it offers. It comes with a cantilever mount and runs on a CR2 battery, making it a convenient package for any shooter.
Overall, I think the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sights is a reliable and versatile red dot sight suitable for different shooting applications.
Cons
Difficulty Turning On
As a new buyer of accessories for my AR-15, I found that the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight was not as easy to turn on as I had hoped. It took me a long time to figure out how to activate the sight, and it was frustrating to keep pressing the up arrow button without success. I even thought the batteries were dead because of how long I had to hold down the button. Although I like the scope’s functionality and adjustable settings, the difficulty in turning it on makes it less ideal for self-defense situations. Unless you have it already turned on, it may not be the best choice. In the future, I would consider purchasing a scope with a shake-a-wake feature to avoid this problem.
Not Ideal for Self-Defense Situations
Aside from the difficulty in turning on the sight, its overall design may not be ideal for self-defense situations. Unlike a holographic sight, the Strikefire II requires some time to adjust and activate before it can be used. That being said, the Strikefire II is a great red dot sight for target acquisition and shooting accuracy. I am happy with my purchase, and it looks great on my VR80 shotgun. I especially like that I can toggle between a red and green dot, which makes it easy to sight in with other laser dots. Overall, I would recommend the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight for someone who wants a reliable, adjustable, and accurate sight but not for self-defense situations that require quick and easy activation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Battery Does It Use?
The Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight uses a CR2 battery. This battery is small and lightweight, ensuring that the sight stays light and easy to manage. Additionally, the Strikefire II has a long-lasting battery life, which means that you won’t need to replace it very often.
Is It Suitable for Low-Light Conditions?
Yes, the Strikefire II Red Dot Sight is suitable for low-light conditions. It has ten brightness settings that you can adjust based on the lighting conditions around you. The fully multi-coated lenses also provide a clean and bright point of view, making it easy to see your target even in dimly lit areas.
Can It Be Used with Magnifiers and Backup Iron Sights?
Yes, the Strikefire II Red Dot Sight can be used with magnifiers and backup iron sights. It comes with an offset cantilever mount that allows you to move the sight forward so it can be used with a magnifier and backup iron sights, all on the same rail. This is a great feature that lets you customize your setup to suit your specific shooting needs.
Overall, I am very happy with my purchase of the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight. It looks great on my vr80 shotgun and holds zero even on rapid fire. Plus, at such an affordable price point, I’ll definitely be buying more for my other firearms.
Conclusion
After using the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sights, I am thoroughly impressed. The combination of functionality, aesthetics, and value make it a game-changer for any shooter, whether they are seasoned or just starting out.
One of the standout features of this sight is its dual-color dot option, which adds a layer of versatility that’s hard to overstate. This flexibility allows for optimal visibility and precision in different environments and lighting conditions.
The Strikefire II’s clarity is unparalleled, enabling crystal-clear views of targets whether at the range or in the field. The single-piece chasis is compact and lightweight but still delivers shockproof performance, withstanding both recoil and impact.
Furthermore, the value for money is exceptional. Considering its quality, features, and performance, the price point is more than reasonable. It’s an investment that pays off with every improved shot and enhanced shooting experience.
Lastly, Vortex’s VIP warranty is incredible and demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction. It’s no wonder they have such a loyal following of satisfied customers.
Overall, the Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sights is a product that I highly recommend to anyone looking to elevate their performance, look, and overall shooting experience.