The low-powered variable optic (LPVO) market has exploded alongside the popularity of ARs. This unique class of scope provides the ability for fast handling up close shots similar to a red dot while maintaining the ability to use magnification at distance. These characteristics make LPVOs at home on fast handling brush guns where longer shots are possible but not probable. One of the latest additions to the market is the Vortex Venom 1-6×24. I have had my hands on one for around a year now mounted on a Browning BLR in 243 Winchester.
Specifications
First, the Vortex Venom 1-6×24 is a second focal plane optic weighing in at just under 20oz. Like most LPVOs, the Venom 1-6×24 uses a 30mm main tube. One feature that is surprising for the price range is the illumination. The illumination is activated by the left side turret and has off detents between each brightness setting. This is excellent, allowing for the illumination to be turned on and off without having to look in the scope to verify it worked.
The reticle is the AR-BDC3 reticle. It is essentially a center dot with a half circle above it and a small Christmas tree underneath it. The half circle portion of the design is for first focal plane optics and has no real use in this optic. The Christmas tree portion of the reticle is useful for hold overs out to 500 yards or so. Unfortunately, the hashmarks are set for a typical 5.56 62 grain loading and are not in MILS or MOA so they are not exact with most hunting cartridges. Also, because it is second focal plane, the hold overs are only applicable at 6 power. That said, if you are shooting past your maximum point blank range 6 power is likely an appropriate magnification.
First Impressions and Field Use
Unboxing the Venom 1-6×24 it is immediately impressive that Vortex has included most common attachments right in the box. There is an included lens bikini and an aluminium throw lever that easily attaches to the magnification ring. This is a welcome touch for an optic in this price range. Also, the capped turret feel is mediocre but it is easy enough to count clicks. Candidly, this is a minor gripe because the capped turrets are not designed for field adjustment.
Shooting the optic, the glass quality is very impressive for the price point. To my eyes the image quality is identical to the Strike Eagle LPVO line from Vortex, which retails for several hundred dollars more. The one power magnification at the bottom end lends to easy both eyes open shooting, which is fantastic for situational awareness in close range encounters. At dawn and dusk the image becomes noticeably darker when the magnification is cranked up to six power. This is a symptom of the small 24mm objective lens and is inherent to this style of optic.
Next, the eyebox on the Venom 1-6×24 is very forgiving at low power. Even when maxed out, this is an easy optic to get behind especially from less stable positions. This is an advantage shooting at odd angles out of a tree stand.
Tracking and Zero Retention
Throughout a season of hunting and many trips to the range zero retention and tracking have been unremarkable. Zeroing the rifle was easy with the turrets adjusting appropriately. The zero itself has not experienced any wandering issues.
Philosphy of Use
Like most LPVOs, the Venom 1-6×24 is at home on close range brush rifles where quick shooting opportunities are the norm. However, the 6 power magnification adds the ability to shoot out to 350 yards. This lends to a fast handling setup that is more flexible than a red dot. The illumination helps offset the lower image brightness at low light.
As such, the Venom 1-6×24 is a great option for lever actions for still hunting in the timber. Another good application would be on a handy rifle that does double duty for both hunting and wildlife defense. Also, for jurisdictions where ARs are legal, this would be a great scope for a general purpose rifle.
Closing Thoughts
In closing, the Vortex Venom 1-6×24 is a solid LPVO at the modest MSRP of $450 USD. It compares favourably to more expensive LPVOs in the same market niche. While some users prefer FFP, for a 1-6 power optic second focal plane isa better choice. This is because it provides larger reticle at one power and the max magnification is low enough to use on all shots that are far enough to use the reticle’s hashmarks.
After shooting the Venom 1-6×24 there is no reason to get a more expensive LPVO unless your budget allows you to jump to a Trijicon, NightForce, Vortex Razor, or other premium option. I expect that the Venom 1-6×24 will cannibalize Vortex Strike Eagle sales and compete favourably against more expensive options from Primary Arms. If you are looking for an LPVO and aren’t willing to spend north of $800 USD this is a really excellent scope.