For hunters and target shooters on a budget, the Vortex Crossfire red dot sight has become a popular choice. But does it live up to the hype? I recently took the Crossfire out to the range and put it through its paces to find out. Here’s a breakdown of my experience, along with what other users are saying online.
Best Features and Pros:
- Affordability: Let’s face it, optics can get expensive fast. The Crossfire strikes a great balance between affordability and functionality.
- Simple and Rugged Construction: This red dot is built to take a beating. The lightweight aluminum housing feels solid in your hand, and it’s fog- and waterproof. I wouldn’t be afraid to take this sight on a rough and tumble hunting trip.
- Easy Mounting: The Crossfire comes with two mounting bases, giving you the option of a lower or higher sight picture. Swapping them out is a breeze, and the included tools make the whole process painless.
- Long Battery Life: Vortex claims 300 hours on a single CR2032 battery, and based on my use so far, it seems believable. I haven’t had to change the battery yet, even after multiple range sessions.
- Dot Versatility: The 2 MOA red dot offers a good balance between precision and field of view. It’s sharp enough for accurate targeting but doesn’t obscure your sight picture at close range. Plus, the brightness adjustment knob allows you to fine-tune the dot intensity for different lighting conditions.
Cons and Usage Experience:
While the Crossfire is a great value optic, it’s not without limitations.
- Limited Reticle Options: Unlike some higher-end red dots, the Crossfire only offers the 2 MOA red dot. If you prefer a different reticle size or style, you’ll be out of luck.
- Glass Clarity: The glass quality isn’t on par with top-tier red dots. While the image is acceptable for most shooting applications, there’s a slight noticeable difference in clarity compared to some pricier options. In low light conditions, the difference can be a bit more pronounced.
- Not Ideal for Competition: For competitive shooters or those pushing for extreme long-range accuracy, the Crossfire might not be the best choice. The limited reticle options and slight drop in clarity might hold you back.
However, for everyday target practice, plinking, or hunting at moderate ranges, the Crossfire performs admirably. The red dot is crisp and easy to pick up, and the sight itself is lightweight and doesn’t throw off the balance of your firearm.
What Others Are Saying:
Customer reviews online largely echo my experience. Many users praise the Crossfire’s affordability, ease of use, and rugged build quality. However, some reviewers mention the limited reticle options and the slight decrease in light transmission compared to higher-end optics.
Alternatives and Gun Compatibility:
If you’re looking for more reticle options or superior low-light performance, the the Vortex Strikefire II or the Trijicon RMR are both excellent choices, albeit at a higher price point.
The Crossfire is compatible with a wide range of firearms. Due to its lower 1/3 co-witness mount, it pairs well with AR-15 platforms. However, with the included Picatinny rail mount, it can be adapted to fit on shotguns, pistols, and bolt-action rifles as well.
The Verdict:
The Vortex Crossfire is a solid red dot sight for budget-minded shooters. It offers a good balance of functionality, affordability, and durability. While it might not be the ultimate choice for competition or low-light situations, for everyday shooting needs, the Crossfire delivers a lot of value for the money. If you’re looking for a no-frills red dot that won’t break the bank, the Vortex Crossfire is definitely worth considering.