Best vortex scope for 45-70 is a key consideration for anyone using this powerful cartridge. The .45-70 Government round is known for its heavy recoil and deep impact, making it a favorite for big game hunting and brush shooting. To get the most out of it, you need a scope that can handle tough conditions and deliver reliable performance.
Vortex scopes are a popular choice because they are built to last. They combine rugged design with sharp optics, making them ideal for hard-hitting rounds like the .45-70. Whether you’re using a lever-action rifle or a modern build, there’s a Vortex scope that fits your setup.
In addition, these scopes come with features that enhance your shooting experience. Many offer generous eye relief, clear reticles, and fast-focus eyepieces. As a result, you can shoot with more confidence and accuracy.
This guide will walk you through the best vortex scope for 45-70 options available today. Each scope listed offers something unique, helping you choose the right one for your style and environment. With the right optic, your .45-70 rifle becomes even more effective in the field.
5 Best vortex scope for 45-70
1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope is a compact, rugged optic designed for forward-mounting on scout rifles and lever-actions. Its generous eye relief and fast-targeting design make it an excellent companion for the hard-hitting .45-70 cartridge. Whether you’re trekking through thick brush or lining up a quick shot on moving game, this scope offers the clarity and durability needed to perform in the field.
Built with aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant—perfect for demanding hunting conditions. It features a V-Plex reticle that provides a clean, uncluttered sight picture, and the 2-7x zoom range is ideal for short to medium-range shooting. The long eye relief (9.45 inches) ensures a safe and comfortable shooting experience, especially when dealing with the recoil of the .45-70.
Key Features
- 2-7x magnification for close to mid-range accuracy
- Long 9.45-inch eye relief for recoil-heavy rifles
- Fully multi-coated lenses for crisp image quality
- V-Plex reticle for quick target acquisition
- Fast-focus eyepiece
- Capped reset turrets for easy adjustments
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
- Tube Size: 1 inch
- Field of View: 18.3–5.2 ft @ 100 yds
- Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
- Max Elevation/Windage Adjustment: 60 MOA
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Length: 10.5 inches
- Weight: 12 oz
Pros
- Excellent eye relief for heavy-recoil calibers like .45-70
- Lightweight and compact for scout-style mounting
- Clear, bright optics even in low light
- Reliable tracking and resettable turrets
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- Limited magnification range for longer shots
2. Vortex Diamondback 1.75-5×32
The Vortex Diamondback 1.75-5×32 riflescope stands out as a highly capable optic for hunters who value clarity, ruggedness, and dependable performance. As part of the Diamondback lineup, it offers a low magnification range that’s perfect for short to mid-range shooting. Therefore, it is an excellent option for lever-action rifles chambered in .45-70 Government. When combined, these features make it a strong candidate for the best vortex scope for 45-70 setups.
Moreover, this scope includes the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which is especially useful when shooting at varying distances. As a result, it removes much of the guesswork in estimating bullet drop, particularly in hunting scenarios. In addition, the lenses are fully multi-coated, delivering crisp and bright images even in low light. Because of this, you can rely on your scope from dawn until dusk.
Furthermore, the fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick reticle adjustments, ensuring you’re always ready to take the shot. The precision turrets offer a smooth, metal-on-metal feel and allow you to zero reset after sighting in. In turn, this helps maintain accuracy and repeatability in the field. The precision-glide erector system also guarantees reliable magnification changes under any conditions.
Durability-wise, the one-piece aluminum tube with a hard anodized finish makes the scope shockproof and stealthy in the field. Additionally, it is argon-purged and O-ring sealed, which provides long-term protection against internal fog and water intrusion.
Key Features
- 1.75-5x magnification for versatile short to mid-range shooting
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle simplifies holdover at varying distances
- Fully multi-coated lenses for bright, clear visuals
- Fast-focus eyepiece for quick reticle adjustments
- Metal-on-metal turrets with zero-reset functionality
- Precision Glide Erector System ensures smooth tracking
- One-piece tube construction with hard anodized finish
- Argon purged and O-ring sealed for fogproof and waterproof use
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
- Field of View: 68.3–23.1 ft @ 100 yds
- Tube Size: 1 inch
- Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
- Max Elevation/Windage Adjustment: 100 MOA
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Weight: 12.8 oz
- Length: 10.2 inches
Pros
- Bright and sharp image quality in all lighting conditions
- Excellent reticle for adjusting holdovers
- Lightweight and ideal for mobile hunters
- Quick zoom and fast-focus performance
- Rugged, weatherproof build
- Backed by Vortex’s VIP Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Eye relief could be longer for magnum recoil
3. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 is a high-performance riflescope designed for versatility, precision, and durability. Offering a 1-6x magnification range, this scope is perfectly suited for close to medium-range shooting, making it an ideal companion for rifles chambered in .45-70.
Whether you’re hunting in dense woods or across open fields, the Viper PST Gen II is built to handle a variety of scenarios with ease and reliability. With a range of advanced features, it easily earns a spot as one of the best vortex scope for 45-70.
One of the standout features of this scope is its incredibly intuitive reticle. It provides highly functional hold points, allowing for precise shot placement without cluttering your field of view.
Additionally, the reticle offers 10 intensity levels with off positions between each setting, giving you full control in different lighting conditions. The second focal plane design ensures your reticle size remains constant throughout the magnification range, ideal for fast-moving targets or snap shots.
Furthermore, the Viper PST Gen II comes equipped with laser-etched turrets, adjustable parallax, and the RZR zero stop for quick, accurate adjustments. The fiber optic rotation indicator makes it easy to track your turret position, especially during fast-paced shooting situations. The extra-low dispersion glass ensures high-resolution images and exceptional color fidelity, while the XR fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission for bright and clear views at any time of day.
Key Features
- 1-6x magnification for close to medium-range shooting
- Highly intuitive reticle with detailed hold points
- 10 intensity settings with off positions for easy reticle adjustment
- Laser-etched turrets and RZR zero stop for precise windage and elevation control
- Adjustable parallax for accurate long-range shots
- Extra-low dispersion glass for superior resolution and color fidelity
- Armortek coatings protect lenses from scratches and dirt
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
- Fiber optic rotation indicator for turret tracking
- O-ring sealed and argon purged for enhanced durability
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
- Field of View: 116.5-19.3 ft @ 100 yds
- Tube Size: 30 mm
- Adjustment Graduation: 1/2 MOA
- Max Elevation/Windage Adjustment: 120 MOA
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Weight: 24.5 oz
- Length: 10.5 inches
Pros
- Versatile 1-6x magnification ideal for a variety of hunting situations
- High-quality optics with extra-low dispersion glass for superior image clarity
- Durable, weatherproof construction ideal for tough conditions
- Laser-etched turrets and RZR zero stop for quick adjustments
- Armortek lens coatings prevent scratches and dirt buildup
- Fully adjustable reticle brightness with 10 levels for various lighting situations
Cons
- Heavier than some other scopes in the same category
4. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is a versatile and high-performance riflescope that brings speed and clarity to your shooting experience. Designed for fast target acquisition, this scope is an excellent choice for shooters using .45-70 rifles, combining close-range flexibility with the ability to engage targets at extended distances.
Whether you’re hunting in dense brush or shooting across open fields, the Strike Eagle is built to handle a variety of scenarios with ease. This makes it one of the best vortex scope for 45-70, offering a combination of performance and reliability.
The updated Strike Eagle features a true 1x on the low end, allowing shooters to quickly transition from short-range targets to longer-range shots. Additionally, the magnification ring now includes a thread-in throw lever for quick adjustments, while the magnification indicators are visible without needing to remove your eye from the scope. These enhancements ensure that you can adapt quickly and efficiently in dynamic shooting situations.
One of the standout features of the Strike Eagle is the new illuminated BDC3 reticle, designed to help users focus their eye faster and achieve holdovers that allow for accurate shots out to 650 yards with known distances. Moreover, the fast focus dial on the eyepiece makes reticle adjustments quick and simple, ensuring that you’re always ready to make your shot with precision.
Key Features
- True 1x magnification on the low end for close-range shooting
- 1-6x magnification for versatile engagement at various ranges
- Illuminated BDC3 reticle for faster eye focus and quick holdover use out to 650 yards
- Updated magnification ring with thread-in throw lever for faster adjustments
- Anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces for increased light transmission
- Nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fogproof performance
- Shockproof, aircraft-grade aluminum 30mm tube for durability
- Fast focus dial on eyepiece for quick reticle focusing
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
- Field of View: 116.5–19.3 ft @ 100 yds
- Tube Size: 30 mm
- Adjustment Graduation: 1/2 MOA
- Max Elevation/Windage Adjustment: 140 MOA
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Weight: 18.9 oz
- Length: 10.5 inches
Pros
- Excellent low-light performance due to anti-reflective coatings
- Fast target acquisition with the 1x magnification
- Illuminated BDC3 reticle for quick engagement out to 650 yards
- Durable and shockproof construction, ideal for heavy recoil rifles like the .45-70
- Versatile magnification range for both close and mid-range shooting
- Nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed for all-weather reliability
Cons
- Slightly heavier than other scopes in the same category
5.Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm riflescope offers exceptional value, durability, and optical performance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking precision at an affordable price point. While not a Vortex product, the VX-Freedom can be considered one of the best scopes for a .45-70 rifle, providing a combination of rugged construction and clear sightlines, making it suitable for hunters and shooters alike.
Built with 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the VX-Freedom is a tough, shockproof optic that can handle the intense recoil of rifles like the .45-70. The Punisher-tested design guarantees that the scope can withstand harsh impacts, ensuring long-lasting reliability. This makes it an excellent option for those looking for a high-performance scope to pair with their high-recoil rifle.
Moreover, the VX-Freedom features Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System, which enhances image quality in low-light conditions. This system not only adds up to 10 extra minutes of shooting light, but it also reduces glare, ensuring crisp and clear images during dawn or dusk hunting trips. Additionally, the Duplex CDS reticle provides a clean, uncluttered sight picture that makes target acquisition easier.
For those who appreciate precision, the 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation allow for precise, repeatable changes to your point of impact. These adjustments provide absolute dependability, ensuring your scope will maintain its zero after years of use.
Key Features
- 3-9x magnification range ideal for mid-range shooting
- Duplex CDS reticle for clear, uncluttered sight picture
- Twilight Light Management System for better low-light performance
- 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for all-weather reliability
- Made from durable 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum
- Punisher-tested to withstand harsh recoil
- 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation
- Matte finish for a low-glare, tactical appearance
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Eye Relief: 4.17 inches
- Field of View: 33.1–12.7 ft @ 100 yds
- Tube Size: 1 inch
- Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
- Max Elevation/Windage Adjustment: 60 MOA
- Parallax Setting: 150 yards
- Weight: 12.5 oz
- Length: 12.5 inches
Pros
- Excellent low-light performance thanks to the Twilight Light Management System
- Durable construction ideal for high-recoil rifles like the .45-70
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliability in all weather conditions
- Precise adjustments for windage and elevation
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Simple, easy-to-use Duplex CDS reticle
Cons
- Limited magnification range compared to higher-end models
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Factors to consider when purchasing Best vortex scope for 45-70
Magnification Range
When selecting the best Vortex scope for .45-70, it’s important to consider the magnification range that best suits your needs. The .45-70 rifle is ideal for both close-range and medium-range shooting, so a scope with a magnification range of 1-6x or 2-7x provides flexibility. Lower magnification is great for quick target acquisition at close ranges, while higher magnification can help with longer-distance shots, ensuring you’re ready for any hunting scenario.
Durability and Shockproof Design
Since the .45-70 is a high-recoil rifle, durability is a crucial factor in selecting the best Vortex scope for .45-70. Look for a scope made from aircraft-grade aluminum that can withstand the recoil of your rifle. Vortex scopes are typically designed to be shockproof, ensuring the internal components stay in place, even after repeated heavy use. A solid and rugged construction guarantees that your scope will maintain accuracy over time.
Waterproof and Fogproof Performance
Outdoor hunting often means exposure to various weather conditions, which is why waterproof and fogproof performance is essential in a scope. Choose a Vortex scope that is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed to prevent moisture from entering the scope. This ensures that the scope remains fog-free and water-resistant, providing clear, reliable views no matter the weather conditions.
Optical Quality
The optical quality of the scope directly affects your ability to see clearly, especially in low-light conditions. The best Vortex scope for .45-70 should have fully multi-coated lenses that improve light transmission, ensuring brighter, clearer images during dawn and dusk. Features like the Twilight Max Light Management System further enhance low-light performance, giving you an extra 10 minutes of shooting light and reducing glare for better visibility.
Reticle Type
The reticle in your scope is one of the most important elements for accuracy. For the best Vortex scope for .45-70, look for a reticle that helps with both long-range and short-range shooting. Reticles such as the Dead-Hold BDC or V-Brite are ideal, as they offer easy bullet drop compensation and precise holdovers. This makes it easier to hit targets at varying distances without needing to make complicated adjustments in the heat of the moment.
Adjustment Features
When using the best Vortex scope for .45-70, you need precise adjustment features for windage and elevation. Look for a scope with finger-click adjustments that are easy to manipulate in the field. Vortex scopes typically offer 1/4 MOA adjustments, which allow for fine-tuning and repeatable adjustments that maintain your zero after multiple shots. This precision ensures accuracy, even after multiple shots in challenging conditions.
Warranty and Customer Service
A strong warranty and customer service policy can be a deciding factor in purchasing the best Vortex scope for .45-70. Vortex’s VIP Warranty is well-known for being one of the best in the industry, offering an unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty. This means that if your scope is damaged or defective, it will be repaired or replaced without hassle. Knowing that your investment is protected by Vortex’s exceptional customer service can provide peace of mind throughout the life of your scope.
Best Vortex Scope for 45-70 :FAQs
1. What makes the best vortex scope for 45-70 different from other scopes?
The best vortex scope for 45-70 stands out primarily due to its durability and ability to withstand the heavy recoil of the .45-70 rifle. These scopes are designed with shockproof construction, made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and tested to endure harsh impacts.
Additionally, Vortex scopes are equipped with excellent optics for clear, bright images and special features like waterproofing and fogproofing, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging weather conditions. Their versatility in both low-light and high-light environments also makes them ideal for hunting at varying times of the day.
2. What magnification range is best for a .45-70 rifle?
When looking for the best vortex scope for 45-70, a magnification range of 1-6x or 2-7x is generally recommended. These ranges provide the flexibility needed for both close-range and medium-range shooting, which are common for a .45-70 rifle.
The lower magnification allows for quick target acquisition in dense environments, while the higher magnification ensures you can reach targets at longer distances without sacrificing clarity or accuracy.
3. Are Vortex scopes suitable for hunting with a .45-70 rifle?
Yes, Vortex scopes are an excellent choice for hunting with a .45-70 rifle. The best vortex scope for 45-70 offers clear optics, durable construction, and features like the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which helps with bullet drop compensation.
This makes them ideal for hunters who need reliable performance in both close-range and longer-range scenarios. Additionally, features like the Twilight Light Management System improve low-light visibility, which is essential for hunting at dawn or dusk.
4. How do I know which Vortex scope to choose for my .45-70 rifle?
When selecting the best vortex scope for 45-70, consider factors like magnification range, durability, optical quality, and the type of reticle. A magnification range of 1-6x or 2-7x works well for most hunting and shooting scenarios with the .45-70.
Additionally, choose a scope with shockproof construction and waterproof and fogproof features, as the .45-70 can be used in various weather conditions. Finally, opt for a reticle that offers bullet drop compensation and clear aiming points for easier target engagement.
5. How durable are Vortex scopes for high-recoil rifles like the .45-70?
Vortex scopes are designed with rugged durability in mind, making them an excellent choice for high-recoil rifles like the .45-70. The best vortex scope for 45-70 is built with materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring that the scope can withstand the powerful recoil without losing zero. These scopes are shockproof and Punisher-tested, meaning they have been tested to handle extreme impacts, making them reliable even in harsh shooting conditions.
6. Can I use a Vortex scope for long-range shooting with a .45-70 rifle?
While the .45-70 is typically used for medium-range shooting, many of the best vortex scope for 45-70 are capable of long-range shooting as well. If you’re aiming for long-range precision, consider a scope with a higher magnification range and a reticle designed for long-range shots, such as Vortex’s Dead-Hold BDC reticle. However, the .45-70 is generally most effective within 300-400 yards, so the magnification range of 1-6x or 2-7x will likely cover most hunting scenarios.
Conclusion
Choosing the best vortex scope for 45-70 depends on your shooting style, terrain, and intended use—whether it’s brush hunting, long-range precision, or tactical versatility. Vortex offers rugged, high-performance scopes that can handle the heavy recoil of the .45-70 while delivering excellent clarity and accuracy.
From the compact Crossfire II Scout Scope to the premium Razor HD LH, each option caters to different needs without compromising quality. No matter which model you choose, investing in a Vortex scope means reliability, durability, and confidence in every shot with your .45-70 rifle.