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Disappointed in Vortex #6110282
01/02/18 02:09 PM
01/02/18 02:09 PM
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 811
Interior Alaska
3
30/06 Offline OP
trapper
30/06  Offline OP
trapper
3

Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 811
Interior Alaska
Looking for a new pair of binoculars, reading reviews of Vortex Razor 10x50 when I stumbled across comments that they are now made in China. We have 2 pair of older Vortex Binoculars, love them, made in Japan. Anyone have any suggestions on great $500-1000 binoculars made in a reasonably friendly democracy? Thanks.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110290
01/02/18 02:14 PM
01/02/18 02:14 PM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 18,561
Green County Wisconsin
G
GREENCOUNTYPETE Offline
trapper
GREENCOUNTYPETE  Offline
trapper
G

Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 18,561
Green County Wisconsin
nikon is still making in japan according to their web site.


America only has one issue, we have a Responsibility crisis and everything else stems from it.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110320
01/02/18 02:45 PM
01/02/18 02:45 PM
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 3,869
meadowview, Virginia
E
EdP Offline
trapper
EdP  Offline
trapper
E

Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 3,869
meadowview, Virginia
Mine are not that expensive but were made in Japan. They are one of the lower end models in the Leupold line so you might consider looking at Leupolds.

Mine failed me at the most critical time - while on a Wy elk hunt on the day we got on the elk herd. I still managed to get my bull but missed out seeing my partner make his shot. Leupold replaced them at no charge but hopefully the higher end models are more reliable.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110322
01/02/18 02:47 PM
01/02/18 02:47 PM
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 25,411
williams,mn
trapper les Offline
trapper
trapper les  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 25,411
williams,mn
I like my Nikons .


"Those who hammer their guns into plowshares will plow for those who do not."
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110336
01/02/18 02:58 PM
01/02/18 02:58 PM
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 17,028
Fredonia, PA.
Finster Offline
trapper
Finster  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 17,028
Fredonia, PA.
Wife got me a pair of vortex for Christmas. I saw the made in China sticker right away. It is a bummer. They do seem to be good quality though. It also says on the box if they ever brake, they will be repaired or replaced free no matter what the cause or whos fault. You don't even need a receipt. That sounds like a pretty good deal to me.


I BELIEVE IN MY GOD, MY COUNTRY AND IN MYSELF.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110363
01/02/18 03:25 PM
01/02/18 03:25 PM
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,421
Yukon
Y
yukon254 Offline
trapper
yukon254  Offline
trapper
Y

Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,421
Yukon
One thing you gotta give vortex....they have done a very good job at PR. Every outdoor show on TV is sponsored by them and every magazine is full of their adds. I have personally never thought very highly of their products though. When they first introduced their rangefinder I was guiding a TV show host fellow that had one....it was junk. The readings he got weren't even close. In my opinion binoculars are the single most important piece of equipment an outdoorsman owns, and there is no substitute for quality. Swarovski and Licia are the best there is, you will never be sorry you have them. I've heard good things about Kahle too although Ive never owned them. I do have an older pair of Minox that I paid about $1000 for that are OK. Crazy thing about the TV show guys is that most of them actually use a top brand....when the cameras aren't rolling.

Warrantees are a nice feature but they don't do you any good on a 10-day hunt in the middle of nowhere.


do unto others as you would have them do unto you

www.grizzlycreeklodge.com
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110365
01/02/18 03:26 PM
01/02/18 03:26 PM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 18,561
Green County Wisconsin
G
GREENCOUNTYPETE Offline
trapper
GREENCOUNTYPETE  Offline
trapper
G

Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 18,561
Green County Wisconsin
I have nikon and vortex stuff I like the vortex and got over the china thing because they have a great warrantee and seem good quality.

Vortex really does a nice job on the customer service end , I called there last week to ask questions before I ordered another scope , he was very helpful and I got to a person right away.

heck half of my "American" made car was made in china and assembled in Ontario.

Last edited by GREENCOUNTYPETE; 01/02/18 03:26 PM.

America only has one issue, we have a Responsibility crisis and everything else stems from it.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110368
01/02/18 03:27 PM
01/02/18 03:27 PM
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
H
hippie Offline
trapper
hippie  Offline
trapper
H

Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

I was checking labels over Christmas and was highly disappointed in all the foreign made crap.
Hard for me to amagine the trade breaks companies get to the point it's cheaper/better to make 5-10 even couple hundred dollar stuff overseas cheaper than they can here.

Time to hammer these guys and quit supporting the world on our backs.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110381
01/02/18 03:35 PM
01/02/18 03:35 PM
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 226
Northern Utah
B
Bucksnorts Offline
trapper
Bucksnorts  Offline
trapper
B

Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 226
Northern Utah
If your willing to pay two or three times more then you could get Americans to build your optics. Pay 5-6 times more and you can have Germans making your optics.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: EdP] #6110389
01/02/18 03:43 PM
01/02/18 03:43 PM
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 179
Arkansas
A
AR Swampboss Offline
trapper
AR Swampboss  Offline
trapper
A

Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 179
Arkansas
[quote=EdP]Mine are not that expensive but were made in Japan. They are one of the lower end models in the Leupold line so you might consider looking at Leupolds.

I think they all use China now at some level. I had a buddy buy a pair of Leupold binos back in Nov. and they were made in China. He asked me to have a look thru them and I said they didn't seem very clear like I expected. I have some $40 Bushnells that looked about the same. We were very surprised.
He returned them to the store for a refund. They had been on sale for $299

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110398
01/02/18 03:52 PM
01/02/18 03:52 PM
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,941
2A Sanctuaries-W. OK & N. NM
Blaine County Offline
trapper
Blaine County  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,941
2A Sanctuaries-W. OK & N. NM
The phones and computers (or at least a substantial part of them) we are all using to comment on Trapperman likely came from Asia.

Unless you live off the grid with no modern goods, you have bought "Made in China."

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110402
01/02/18 03:59 PM
01/02/18 03:59 PM
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
H
hippie Offline
trapper
hippie  Offline
trapper
H

Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
No poop Sherlock, where did they get the technology?
I should say steal the technology.

Guessing, 75% of the stuff made in China is stolen tech. No respect for patents.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110411
01/02/18 04:07 PM
01/02/18 04:07 PM
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 1,706
Ohio
Ronaround Offline
trapper
Ronaround  Offline
trapper

Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 1,706
Ohio
I took my Vortex 10x40s to quebec/arctic circle for caribou and black bear in alberta. work great, about 2 years old now. not sure if Japan or China, but as stated earlier. Great warranty. and are far better that my Nikons in bushnell in same 10x40. much clearer and precise.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110415
01/02/18 04:11 PM
01/02/18 04:11 PM
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,010
ohio
T
tomahawker Offline
trapper
tomahawker  Offline
trapper
T

Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,010
ohio
Older model used Swarovski can be found in that price range. I got a nice pair of 8x30 for $500. Amazing clarity and almost bomb proof.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110416
01/02/18 04:12 PM
01/02/18 04:12 PM
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 2,808
WI
H
handitrapper Offline
trapper
handitrapper  Offline
trapper
H

Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 2,808
WI
SWAROVSKI or LEICA. Buy the best the first time around. Then there won’t be a second time. I’ll

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110454
01/02/18 04:36 PM
01/02/18 04:36 PM
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
RiversNorth13 Offline
trapper
RiversNorth13  Offline
trapper

Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
My Vortex scopes have been great with no problems .




Simplify your methods to the point of perfection.

Become fast,efficient & effective.

The real "SECRET" to successful trapping.

KEEP IT SIMPLE!

.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110456
01/02/18 04:37 PM
01/02/18 04:37 PM
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 3,274
NWT
Ryan McLeod Offline
trapper
Ryan McLeod  Offline
trapper

Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 3,274
NWT
I've heard a guy say that "if you can't see it with your naked eye then it's too far" I have vortex binoculars and I like them.


If you take care of the land the land will take care of you
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110463
01/02/18 04:47 PM
01/02/18 04:47 PM
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 3,987
South Dakota
R
Rat Masterson Offline
trapper
Rat Masterson  Offline
trapper
R

Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 3,987
South Dakota
Swarovski, spendy but will last a lifetime. EL 10x42s can't beat them with a stick.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110466
01/02/18 04:48 PM
01/02/18 04:48 PM
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 288
new mexico
B
bmccoyote Offline
trapper
bmccoyote  Offline
trapper
B

Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 288
new mexico
I have a pair of Minox 10x42 that I bought about 10 years ago. They are a good quality optic, that cost me about 400 bucks. I have beat the (This word is unacceptable on Trapperman) out of them and they are still as clear as they were the first day I used them. Not sure where you could find them now or how much they would cost, but I'm sure google could solve that problem. And yes, I do like Vortex optics, I just don't have a reason to buy any of their products right now.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110475
01/02/18 04:56 PM
01/02/18 04:56 PM
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 811
Interior Alaska
3
30/06 Offline OP
trapper
30/06  Offline OP
trapper
3

Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 811
Interior Alaska
Thanks for your thoughts, all. I prefer to avoid Chinese, even if it costs me more, but acknowledge the inevitable that I can't totally avoid it, at least Chinese made components.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110482
01/02/18 05:01 PM
01/02/18 05:01 PM
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 1,063
Western Wisconsin
T
TraderVic Offline
trapper
TraderVic  Offline
trapper
T

Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 1,063
Western Wisconsin
I just retired from my own business. The problem with buying quality American made products is.......The vast majority of Americans want CHEAP.

Cheap this, cheap that, and so on. Everybody talks smart about making America great again - until they get their wallet out.

Can't tell you how many potential customers said "how much ? , I can get it cheaper at Walmart or "xyz". Many manufacturers have gone offshore to stay competitive, a.k.a. staying in business. I sold a quality product and it was "locally grown".

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: hippie] #6110491
01/02/18 05:08 PM
01/02/18 05:08 PM
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,941
2A Sanctuaries-W. OK & N. NM
Blaine County Offline
trapper
Blaine County  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,941
2A Sanctuaries-W. OK & N. NM
Originally Posted By: hippie
No poop Sherlock, where did they get the technology?
I should say steal the technology.

Guessing, 75% of the stuff made in China is stolen tech. No respect for patents.


Everyone got the technology, at least originally, from Galileo, an Italian.

No doubt the Chinese rip off patented technology. That wasn't the point.

Enjoy your computer.

Sherlock

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Blaine County] #6110497
01/02/18 05:14 PM
01/02/18 05:14 PM
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
H
hippie Offline
trapper
hippie  Offline
trapper
H

Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
Originally Posted By: Blaine County
Originally Posted By: hippie
No poop Sherlock, where did they get the technology?
I should say steal the technology.

Guessing, 75% of the stuff made in China is stolen tech. No respect for patents.


Everyone got the technology, at least originally, from Galileo, an Italian.

No doubt the Chinese rip off patented technology. That wasn't the point.

Enjoy your computer.

Sherlock


Do i have much choice?
Never said i could avoid it if you reread my post. I said we need to level the playing field.

Some people gonna cry? Yep, look at the post before yours. I also deal with the public and he's 100% correct, the customer usually, not all the time as some want better stuff on their vehicle in my case, but most want cheap and our fine gov't has fostered this for way too long.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: hippie] #6110516
01/02/18 05:29 PM
01/02/18 05:29 PM
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,941
2A Sanctuaries-W. OK & N. NM
Blaine County Offline
trapper
Blaine County  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,941
2A Sanctuaries-W. OK & N. NM
Originally Posted By: hippie
Do i have much choice?
Never said i could avoid it if you reread my post. I said we need to level the playing field.

Some people gonna cry? Yep, look at the post before yours. I also deal with the public and he's 100% correct, the customer usually, not all the time as some want better stuff on their vehicle in my case, but most want cheap and our fine gov't has fostered this for way too long.


Wait. Are you selling Chinese products for vehicles?

You have choices.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110527
01/02/18 05:35 PM
01/02/18 05:35 PM
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 3,274
NWT
Ryan McLeod Offline
trapper
Ryan McLeod  Offline
trapper

Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 3,274
NWT
Reminds me of the song lyrics " my transistor radio comes from far away" made in Japan


If you take care of the land the land will take care of you
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110529
01/02/18 05:35 PM
01/02/18 05:35 PM
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
RiversNorth13 Offline
trapper
RiversNorth13  Offline
trapper

Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin

If everyone was a millionaire they all would buy high end , but not everyone is a millionaire.
People know things they buy are not high end, but it works for the money spent .
Good things can be had for cheaper if a person does good research.





Simplify your methods to the point of perfection.

Become fast,efficient & effective.

The real "SECRET" to successful trapping.

KEEP IT SIMPLE!

.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Blaine County] #6110536
01/02/18 05:42 PM
01/02/18 05:42 PM
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
H
hippie Offline
trapper
hippie  Offline
trapper
H

Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
Originally Posted By: Blaine County
Originally Posted By: hippie
Do i have much choice?
Never said i could avoid it if you reread my post. I said we need to level the playing field.

Some people gonna cry? Yep, look at the post before yours. I also deal with the public and he's 100% correct, the customer usually, not all the time as some want better stuff on their vehicle in my case, but most want cheap and our fine gov't has fostered this for way too long.


Wait. Are you selling Chinese products for vehicles?

You have choices.


Depends, which paragraph are you asking about?

Now i understand you, my dumbness.

Yes, from about every country you could amagine.

Engine bearings fron India, can you believe that? India for an American ebgine.

I've had enough of it and won't hold back on calling out our Gov't for allowing it.
MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!


Last edited by hippie; 01/02/18 05:48 PM.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: GREENCOUNTYPETE] #6110565
01/02/18 05:58 PM
01/02/18 05:58 PM
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,368
MT
S
snowy Offline
trapper
snowy  Offline
trapper
S

Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,368
MT
Originally Posted By: GREENCOUNTYPETE
I have nikon and vortex stuff I like the vortex and got over the china thing because they have a great warrantee and seem good quality.

Vortex really does a nice job on the customer service end , I called there last week to ask questions before I ordered another scope , he was very helpful and I got to a person right away.

heck half of my "American" made car was made in china and assembled in Ontario.


I agree totally with you. IMO Vortex is way out in front of others because of service and warrantee hands down the best in the industry. Vortex also makes a top notch product also.


Give me a fish, I will eat for a day. Teach me to fish, I will eat for a lifetime
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110597
01/02/18 06:24 PM
01/02/18 06:24 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,979
Alaska
H
Hupurest Offline
"Andy S wannabe"
Hupurest  Offline
"Andy S wannabe"
H

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,979
Alaska
for the price you are looking at for Razor 10x50, $1,100

you can get a pair of Swarovski CL 10x30

https://www.amazon.com/Swarovski-Companion-10x30-Binocular-Tan/dp/B00556ZH70

the FOV will be smaller, but the glass in the Swaro is far superior to the vortex.

I have these in 10x and 8x as well as the EL 10x42.

I find myself taking the Cl more often than the El, because of compact size and weight. there is no difference in the glass or image quality between the two.....

for hours of sitting and glassing, the EL are more comfortable for me..


Vortex makes an ok product for the prices they sell them at. but, without the warranty, the binos would be 25% cheaper, because they build the cost of the "great warranty" into the price....

as for made in china, everything is exactly the same for the Razor line, except the location of the manufacturing.

while I am not impressed with the vortex glass or products, they do make a decent product that the average person can afford....

that said,
in the world of optics,
Good, great, top notch, clear, crisp, are NOT words id use describing any of the vortex line...
ok, economical, affordable, decent, meh, are more appropriate.


Originally Posted By: Malukchuk
I'll take wolves over idiots any day.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: RiversNorth13] #6110603
01/02/18 06:28 PM
01/02/18 06:28 PM
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 17,028
Fredonia, PA.
Finster Offline
trapper
Finster  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 17,028
Fredonia, PA.
Originally Posted By: RiversNorth13

If everyone was a millionaire they all would buy high end , but not everyone is a millionaire.
People know things they buy are not high end, but it works for the money spent .
Good things can be had for cheaper if a person does good research.


Very good points.


I BELIEVE IN MY GOD, MY COUNTRY AND IN MYSELF.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Hupurest] #6110633
01/02/18 06:55 PM
01/02/18 06:55 PM
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 3,274
NWT
Ryan McLeod Offline
trapper
Ryan McLeod  Offline
trapper

Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 3,274
NWT
Originally Posted By: Hupurest
for the price you are looking at for Razor 10x50, $1,100

you can get a pair of Swarovski CL 10x30

https://www.amazon.com/Swarovski-Companion-10x30-Binocular-Tan/dp/B00556ZH70

the FOV will be smaller, but the glass in the Swaro is far superior to the vortex.

I have these in 10x and 8x as well as the EL 10x42.

I find myself taking the Cl more often than the El, because of compact size and weight. there is no difference in the glass or image quality between the two.....

for hours of sitting and glassing, the EL are more comfortable for me..


Vortex makes an ok product for the prices they sell them at. but, without the warranty, the binos would be 25% cheaper, because they build the cost of the "great warranty" into the price....

as for made in china, everything is exactly the same for the Razor line, except the location of the manufacturing.

while I am not impressed with the vortex glass or products, they do make a decent product that the average person can afford....

that said,
in the world of optics,
Good, great, top notch, clear, crisp, are NOT words id use describing any of the vortex line...
ok, economical, affordable, decent, meh, are more appropriate.


My only use for binoculars is to say "yup that's (insert species name here)" don't need to measure points or inches so "it works" is how I describe my binoculars. I don't buy into that use the most expensive stuff mentality. But like it's been said if you can afford it why not I suppose.


If you take care of the land the land will take care of you
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Hupurest] #6110637
01/02/18 06:59 PM
01/02/18 06:59 PM
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,998
Rock Springs, WI
Z
Zim Offline
trapper
Zim  Offline
trapper
Z

Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,998
Rock Springs, WI
Well guys, as far as Vortex staying and investing in the USA I would like to point out a few things that I know firsthand.
1. They bought approximately 150 acres in the outskirts of the Village of Barneveld in Iowa County, Wisconsin.
2. They have invested over 20 million dollars in said facility. This includes corporate offices, warehouse facilities, machine shops, etc.
3. They are investing and building a day care center for the employee's children. Another million bucks.
4. They are building a shooting range (indoor and out) I don't have a price on that.

I know this because of my company's involvement in the project providing engineering and surveying services. That is about as much commitment to the good old USA as I have seen in awhile. I wish them the best.

Zim

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Ryan McLeod] #6110645
01/02/18 07:08 PM
01/02/18 07:08 PM
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 437
Western Illinois
#
#11 Offline
trapper
#11  Offline
trapper
#

Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 437
Western Illinois
Check out Meopta Meopro. 8X42 HD can be found around $750. Assembled in New York from European parts. Meopta is a respected Czech company that has been quietly building great optical equipment since 1933. I use mine as much as 6 hours a day, 6 days a week for weeks at a time doing surveys for USFWS. Never any eyestrain. The 10X42 Meopro is slightly higher.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110669
01/02/18 07:26 PM
01/02/18 07:26 PM
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 308
Ashland, OH
TrapperT25 Offline
trapper
TrapperT25  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 308
Ashland, OH
I normally don't like to get into these topics but all I own optic wise is vortex and I have never had any issues with them and their customer service is outstanding. But working in the line of work I do you start to realize why companies go off shore to either produce or assemble their products. The bottom line is the customer. All customers want is price reduction after price reduction and if you want to keep the work you must move off shore. I'm sure vortex wants to produce their optics in the US but in order to get the price we pay NOW they probably had to move it off shore. I'd hate to see the prices we would pay if everything was made in the US. No one would be able to afford it.

I myself want to keep the parts that I produce in the US but I order for my company and I to keep the work I have no choice to outsource it to a foreign country


Trap Hard, Hunt Harder... Until the buck tags filled then trap harder!
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Zim] #6110697
01/02/18 07:42 PM
01/02/18 07:42 PM
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,368
MT
S
snowy Offline
trapper
snowy  Offline
trapper
S

Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,368
MT
Originally Posted By: Zim
Well guys, as far as Vortex staying and investing in the USA I would like to point out a few things that I know firsthand.
1. They bought approximately 150 acres in the outskirts of the Village of Barneveld in Iowa County, Wisconsin.
2. They have invested over 20 million dollars in said facility. This includes corporate offices, warehouse facilities, machine shops, etc.
3. They are investing and building a day care center for the employee's children. Another million bucks.
4. They are building a shooting range (indoor and out) I don't have a price on that.

I know this because of my company's involvement in the project providing engineering and surveying services. That is about as much commitment to the good old USA as I have seen in awhile. I wish them the best.

Zim


That is interesting and I also wish Vortex to succeed and do well.


Give me a fish, I will eat for a day. Teach me to fish, I will eat for a lifetime
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110786
01/02/18 08:41 PM
01/02/18 08:41 PM
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 97
VA
J
jackrock Offline
trapper
jackrock  Offline
trapper
J

Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 97
VA
I have had a pair of Swift 10x binoculars for several years now. They were not all that expensive and I really like them. I have looked through other folks hunting binos and I always prefer the Swift.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Zim] #6110789
01/02/18 08:43 PM
01/02/18 08:43 PM
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 6,523
Wi.
D
Diggerman Offline
trapper
Diggerman  Offline
trapper
D

Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 6,523
Wi.
Originally Posted By: Zim
Well guys, as far as Vortex staying and investing in the USA I would like to point out a few things that I know firsthand.
1. They bought approximately 150 acres in the outskirts of the Village of Barneveld in Iowa County, Wisconsin.
2. They have invested over 20 million dollars in said facility. This includes corporate offices, warehouse facilities, machine shops, etc.
3. They are investing and building a day care center for the employee's children. Another million bucks.
4. They are building a shooting range (indoor and out) I don't have a price on that.

I know this because of my company's involvement in the project providing engineering and surveying services. That is about as much commitment to the good old USA as I have seen in awhile. I wish them the best.

Zim

Excellent post Zim, If you want to see a razor scope being built right now, go to Middleton Wi. The guys at Vortex take a square piece of aluminum and turn it into a Razor scope, also they assemble the Vipers there. all will be moving to their new facility in Barneveld this spring. Their cheaper scopes etc. will still be built over seas.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6110989
01/02/18 10:44 PM
01/02/18 10:44 PM
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,056
Morehead city NC
JakeDog Offline
trapper
JakeDog  Offline
trapper

Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,056
Morehead city NC
If you can spend the money on Leica or swaros then sure there is no better and by all means that is the way to go. If I had t choose between vortex, bushnells or nikons? Be vortex. I always liked leupold stuff too and their customer service is awesome, lost turret cap for leupold scoops and had a new pair second day shipping without having to spend a dime, just made a phone call, lady asked my address I had my card in my hand to pay a fee and she said don't worry about it.

If I was gonna go after razors though or high end vortex then I'd go bit more like Hup said and get the swaros, I have like a 500$ pair of vortex? Can't remember the name of them? Talons? But they have been great and tough! I am hard on my stuff, not just hunting but in the kayak, saltwater dunking them? Dropping them over board? They have held up for three years now.

Got a good pair of older zeiss? Hardly use them anymore and they were more higher end?

Best of luck on the choice.

J


Last edited by JakeDog; 01/03/18 07:35 AM.

Suppression rules/prevention drools

Confidence is going fly fishing for Moby Dick, in a row boat, and bringing tartar sauce with you.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6111035
01/02/18 11:18 PM
01/02/18 11:18 PM
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,368
MT
S
snowy Offline
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snowy  Offline
trapper
S

Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,368
MT
I have had many different makers of scopes spotting scopes, and bino etc. except Leica and swaros. I'm sure they are good so I can't judge for them. I use eye gear everyday of the year and IMO Vortex has been the best for wear and tear and warranty/service. I'm not saying some of the other brands that have been mentioned here are not good in those areas but Vortex has raised the bar and has done me a lot better then the competition.


Give me a fish, I will eat for a day. Teach me to fish, I will eat for a lifetime
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6111171
01/03/18 01:45 AM
01/03/18 01:45 AM
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 1,681
South Dakota
R
Rammer Offline
trapper
Rammer  Offline
trapper
R

Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 1,681
South Dakota
I have a pair of Swarovski CLs and they are a pile of junk. Two times they have been back to Swarovski and been rebuilt. I haven’t taken them out of Box the second time. Would love to get my money back.

I have a pair of Zeiss conquests that have bounced on my dash hundreds of thousands of miles over ten years and are picture perfect glass yet. They have lots of battle scars and keep on ticking.

I bought the 400 dollar ish Zeiss a few years back, and they are still running strong.

My dad bought a pair of the vortex diamond backs a few years ago, and I’m impressed with them. I was so impressed I bought my wife a pair for Christmas this year when Cabela’s Ran em half off for Black Friday.

Just my .02 worth.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6111469
01/03/18 12:23 PM
01/03/18 12:23 PM
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
H
hippie Offline
trapper
hippie  Offline
trapper
H

Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 19,719
pa
That's awsome news Zim has.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: RiversNorth13] #6111495
01/03/18 12:56 PM
01/03/18 12:56 PM
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,421
Yukon
Y
yukon254 Offline
trapper
yukon254  Offline
trapper
Y

Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,421
Yukon
Originally Posted By: RiversNorth13

If everyone was a millionaire they all would buy high end , but not everyone is a millionaire.
People know things they buy are not high end, but it works for the money spent .
Good things can be had for cheaper if a person does good research.





I'm not a millionaire by a long shot, but I learned long ago that buying quality gear will save money in the long run. I bet I spent over 5 thousand dollars in the first 10-years guiding hunters buying cheaper optics. They would inevitably fail. Then I got smart and bought Swaros.....havent spent a dime since. One fall I accidentally left my binoculars in a hunting camp. Another guide found them and stuck them in a food barrel. The next spring a bear got into the cabin and rolled the barrel outside, where it rolled down a hill into the lake. By the time I got there the next fall my binos were hardly recognizable....Sent them in to Swavorski and they sent me a brand new pair no questions asked. Vortex or other cheaper brands are fine for some, but if you rely on them quality is always cheaper in the long run. Only thing a hunter uses more than binos is his boots...


do unto others as you would have them do unto you

www.grizzlycreeklodge.com
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6111681
01/03/18 04:11 PM
01/03/18 04:11 PM
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 1,063
Western Wisconsin
T
TraderVic Offline
trapper
TraderVic  Offline
trapper
T

Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 1,063
Western Wisconsin
When you buy quality you only cry once.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6112092
01/03/18 09:21 PM
01/03/18 09:21 PM
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 3,869
meadowview, Virginia
E
EdP Offline
trapper
EdP  Offline
trapper
E

Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 3,869
meadowview, Virginia
I had been using my lower end Leupold binos for several years and then took them on my first, and so far only, elk hunt. They worked fine for 4 days and most of the 5th. All of a sudden as we stalked into the herd the center focus adjustment would not work. They had not been dropped, hit, or suffered any sort of trauma, they just quit when I needed them the most. By lower end I mean they cost about $300 for 10x42's. Leupold replaced them with a new pair no questions asked a few weeks later, but that doesn't give me confidence they won't let me down the next time I am on a $5000 hunt. I want binos that are robust and reliable first, and have superior optics second. It's not that I don't appreciate the value of superior optics, it's just that I don't want to buy better optics that let me down at the critical moment. I want to have confidence in their reliability and then determine how much I am willing to spend on better glass.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6112139
01/03/18 09:46 PM
01/03/18 09:46 PM
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
RiversNorth13 Offline
trapper
RiversNorth13  Offline
trapper

Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
For most people buying optics is a trade off of what a person can afford for what you get .
Some can or need to spend money on high end optics, others not so much .
Everyone has different needs and pocket books .
Doing research and find the best value for the money is a must .
Having spares should be a must also .
Peoples $50,000 vehicles break down too .




Simplify your methods to the point of perfection.

Become fast,efficient & effective.

The real "SECRET" to successful trapping.

KEEP IT SIMPLE!

.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6112152
01/03/18 09:55 PM
01/03/18 09:55 PM
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 45,492
james bay frontierOnt.
B
Boco Offline
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Boco  Offline
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B

Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 45,492
james bay frontierOnt.
I thought you meant the polar vortex.


Forget that fear of gravity-get a little savagery in your life.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Boco] #6112176
01/03/18 10:14 PM
01/03/18 10:14 PM
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,998
Rock Springs, WI
Z
Zim Offline
trapper
Zim  Offline
trapper
Z

Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,998
Rock Springs, WI
I think we are having one right now in Wisconsin Boco. I would be happy to return it to you postage paid.

Zim

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6112238
01/03/18 11:02 PM
01/03/18 11:02 PM
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
RiversNorth13 Offline
trapper
RiversNorth13  Offline
trapper

Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin

I'm totally surprised no one hasn't mentioned the Hensoldt SAM 6-24x72 or any of the Schmidt -Bender scopes . laugh
Every hunter should have a couple of each !




Simplify your methods to the point of perfection.

Become fast,efficient & effective.

The real "SECRET" to successful trapping.

KEEP IT SIMPLE!

.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: RiversNorth13] #6112255
01/03/18 11:12 PM
01/03/18 11:12 PM
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,998
Rock Springs, WI
Z
Zim Offline
trapper
Zim  Offline
trapper
Z

Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,998
Rock Springs, WI
Hey Rivers North, now that I think about it some guy just told me I didn't know Schmidt. Also mentioned shoe black or some such thing.

Zim

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6112259
01/03/18 11:15 PM
01/03/18 11:15 PM
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,218
MI
lebowski Offline
trapper
lebowski  Offline
trapper

Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,218
MI
I don't live out west and am not a big high end optics type of guy. My Vortex Crossfire binocs (at $200) are the best I have ever used.

Are there better out there? Yes, I am sure there are.

These work fine for the areas I hunt though. I am not glassing huge basins for elk with them

Last edited by lebowski; 01/03/18 11:16 PM.

"Yeah, well, you know, that's just, like, your opinion, man."

--The Dude
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Zim] #6112260
01/03/18 11:16 PM
01/03/18 11:16 PM
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
RiversNorth13 Offline
trapper
RiversNorth13  Offline
trapper

Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,568
Gitche Gumee Wisconsin
Originally Posted By: Zim
Hey Rivers North, now that I think about it some guy just told me I didn't know Schmidt. Also mentioned shoe black or some such thing.

Zim


laugh




Simplify your methods to the point of perfection.

Become fast,efficient & effective.

The real "SECRET" to successful trapping.

KEEP IT SIMPLE!

.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Zim] #6112268
01/03/18 11:18 PM
01/03/18 11:18 PM
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,218
MI
lebowski Offline
trapper
lebowski  Offline
trapper

Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,218
MI
Good stuff. thanks for sharing this.

Originally Posted By: Zim
Well guys, as far as Vortex staying and investing in the USA I would like to point out a few things that I know firsthand.
1. They bought approximately 150 acres in the outskirts of the Village of Barneveld in Iowa County, Wisconsin.
2. They have invested over 20 million dollars in said facility. This includes corporate offices, warehouse facilities, machine shops, etc.
3. They are investing and building a day care center for the employee's children. Another million bucks.
4. They are building a shooting range (indoor and out) I don't have a price on that.

I know this because of my company's involvement in the project providing engineering and surveying services. That is about as much commitment to the good old USA as I have seen in awhile. I wish them the best.

Zim


"Yeah, well, you know, that's just, like, your opinion, man."

--The Dude
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6112292
01/03/18 11:37 PM
01/03/18 11:37 PM
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 11,165
Central NC
T
traprjohn Offline
trapper
traprjohn  Offline
trapper
T

Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 11,165
Central NC
Swarovski or Steiner !


www.sevenoakstrappingsupplies.com for trap mods and gear
The 10 Commandments are not suggestions.
Buy a soldiers meal EVERY chance you can.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6112304
01/03/18 11:51 PM
01/03/18 11:51 PM
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,010
ohio
T
tomahawker Offline
trapper
tomahawker  Offline
trapper
T

Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,010
ohio
I know of a pair of Swarovski 8x30 cl for $775 anib

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6113109
01/04/18 05:08 PM
01/04/18 05:08 PM
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 605
Central PA, God's Country
PAlltheway Offline
trapper
PAlltheway  Offline
trapper

Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 605
Central PA, God's Country
Leupold Mojave 8x42 the best binocular for the money I've ever had, and almost the best by a hair I've ever used.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: traprjohn] #6113157
01/04/18 05:33 PM
01/04/18 05:33 PM
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 6,523
Wi.
D
Diggerman Offline
trapper
Diggerman  Offline
trapper
D

Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 6,523
Wi.
Originally Posted By: traprjohn
Swarovski or Steiner !

Ever deal with Stiener 's customer service? Not good.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: TraderVic] #6113185
01/04/18 06:04 PM
01/04/18 06:04 PM
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,056
Morehead city NC
JakeDog Offline
trapper
JakeDog  Offline
trapper

Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,056
Morehead city NC
Originally Posted By: TraderVic
When you buy quality you only cry once.


Until you drop that 2700$ pair of binos on the rocks scratch a lens or they go for a swim in the salt! Yeah they will be ok but still gonna tighten up a bit when they fall! lol

If I could afford them I would without thought! Life right now says nooooo!


Suppression rules/prevention drools

Confidence is going fly fishing for Moby Dick, in a row boat, and bringing tartar sauce with you.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: Diggerman] #6113226
01/04/18 06:43 PM
01/04/18 06:43 PM
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 605
Central PA, God's Country
PAlltheway Offline
trapper
PAlltheway  Offline
trapper

Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 605
Central PA, God's Country
Originally Posted By: Diggerman
Originally Posted By: traprjohn
Swarovski or Steiner !

Ever deal with Stiener 's customer service? Not good.

Leupold's customer service is excellent. During a bear drive in horrendously thick laurel this last November, my feet caught and I fell flat on my face. My 265 pound frame fell flat on the Leupold Mojave binoculars strapped on my chest harness, and the sharp, hard laurel sticks reached up to warmly receive the fall and popped off the center focus wheel. I called Leupold and they said "it's a no-fault guarantee. Send them in and we will fix or replace them at no cost to you." So I sent them in and they said I'll be getting them back any day now. That's frickin awesome customer service.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6114164
01/05/18 11:38 AM
01/05/18 11:38 AM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 18,561
Green County Wisconsin
G
GREENCOUNTYPETE Offline
trapper
GREENCOUNTYPETE  Offline
trapper
G

Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 18,561
Green County Wisconsin
I was pleasantly surprised that when my new Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 arrived yesterday it was made in the Philippines so not all Vortex stuff is made in China.

I suspect the hole Crossfire "budget" line is made in china I have 2 of them and like them , I have even shot with my crossfire II 3-9x50 to 500 yards and stayed on target fine as long as I had my dope right


I had called the Vortex office about a week ago and talked to Travis I think it was , I explained my application and that I was looking at the CrossfireII 4-12x44 bdc reticle and the Diamondback 4-12x40 VMR-1 retical I wanted the VMR-1 recital for ranging but it was nearly double the money.
he assured me the Diamondback was definitely a step up in quality and that it would fit my application very well he was also able to tell me what rings he thought would fit best for the gun I was mounting it to , but said if I got the Mediums and it would take lows they would exchange them.


America only has one issue, we have a Responsibility crisis and everything else stems from it.
Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6141545
01/29/18 06:04 PM
01/29/18 06:04 PM
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 605
Central PA, God's Country
PAlltheway Offline
trapper
PAlltheway  Offline
trapper

Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 605
Central PA, God's Country
Leupold gets the gold star A+ for customer service this week.
After falling on and breaking a fairly new and really nice pair of Mojave 8x42s, I sent them in. Two weeks later I received back Leupold's newest binocular, which replaces a bunch of others (Cascades, Mojaves, etc.), the Pro Guide HD. This is a really nice binocular which compares favorably to the Swarovski EL 8x42 I just had to look through at Bass Pro yesterday. It's just that the Leupold is $2,000 to $2,500 LESS than the Swarovskis. Yeah, the Swaros are crystal clear, but the Leupold ain't much less.

Re: Disappointed in Vortex [Re: 30/06] #6141556
01/29/18 06:15 PM
01/29/18 06:15 PM
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 981
Alaska Northwestern
That Fool Offline
trapper
That Fool  Offline
trapper

Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 981
Alaska Northwestern
get some nikons or leupolds, I need to get some 12x50s sometime, have 10x42s. Need to save up some money to buy a pair

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