The Vortex Optics Viper HST 6-24×50 is a hunting shooting tactical rifle scope that belongs to a family of cutting-edge, versatile hunting gear. This manufacturer has built a “Vortex Nation” of fans and loyal customers who are passionate about getting outdoors and making the most of the hunting season. Whether they practice recreationally or they’re out on the field all year long, the Vortex brand has a matching scope for every situation.
The Viper HST is an overall great long-range scope with a second focal plane reticle. It’s a great optic to use for hunting small prey across long distances.
As for their Optics Viper riflescopes, Vortex offers the 6-24×50 and the 4-16×44. Both have five-star reviews from hundreds of buyers and boast lifetime warranties. They feature either a VMR-1 MOA or MRAD reticle and 30mm tube for a sleek and sophisticated scope. Hunters can use these scopes on rifles or bolt guns in a variety of shooting scenarios.
This review will focus primarily on the 6-24×50 but before we get into that, let’s talk a bit about the 4-16×44. It has many of the same features with a slightly smaller objective lens and magnification range. It is also 1.8 ounces lighter than the 6-24×50 and 1.8 inches shorter. The majority of the specs are the same as the 6-24×50 so keep that in mind as you go through this review. You can check out how magnification and range interact in our post here!
Overview of Features
The Vortex Optics Viper HST 6-24×50 is a prime choice for all kinds of hunting situations. It combines elements of the Viper PST and Viper HS to provide the best adjustment and optical system. As a dual-use rifle scope for hunting and tactical shooting, it’s a great option if you like to travel light while still having everything you need for an outdoor excursion.
Designed for AR rifles and bolt pistols, the 6-24×50 has a strong aluminum body, magnification versatility, and an ample eye box. Durable tactical turrets and 6x zoom range allow for long-range hunting performance. Pair that with the hashmark-based VMR-1 reticle and you have got a rifle scope that is prepared for your long-distance shooting targets.
The turrets on this scope are made specifically for tactical shooting and the advanced optical system will help you keep an eye on your target no matter the conditions. For instance, the second focal plane reticle maintains ideal visuals while coated lenses increase light transmission. Whether it’s dark or light out, you will be unstoppable with the Viper HST 6-24×50. The 4-16×44 also features these optical advancements.
Technical Aspects
Below are the primary components to consider when choosing between the 6-24×50 and the 4-16×44 Viper rifle scopes. The technical elements will make short work of your long-range shooting targets and tactical practice runs. That being said, a closer look at these aspects can help you decide which scope will best suit you and your specific needs.
Zoom and Magnification Ranges
Choose from 6-24x or 4-16x magnification depending on your specific needs. You’ll pay a bit more for the 6-24×50 but it is well worth it for the versatility. Long-range rifles such as the .308 – check out our best .308 scopes – will love the Viper HST’s ability to easily switch between zoom magnifications, granting you a precise vision for those long-distance shots. The Precision-Glide Erector System makes clean transitions through the zoom lenses for seamless magnification.
Available Reticles
The scopes’ second focal plane reticles are hashmark-based for great versatility and accuracy during hunting situations. This allows you to maintain the appearance of your target at different distances. The subtensions work great for estimating range while taking wind drift into account for more precise shooting. This comes in handy during both tactical and long-range hunting scenarios.
Field of View
The 6-24×50 field of view is 17.8-5.1 feet at 100 yards while the 4-16×44 is 27.4-7.4 feet at 100 yards. It is not a huge difference so choose the scope that best suits your overall needs. The field of view for the 4-16×44 will serve you well, especially with additional features such as ArmorTek protection against dirt, oil, and scratches. Also, the lenses are purged with argon gas to make them fogproof while the O-ring seals keep moisture out. This makes for a great scope in all kinds of weather conditions.
Eye Relief
Both Viper scopes have a 4.0” eye relief, which is an ample size for hunters of all abilities and skill levels. It is particularly nice because you don’t run the risk of the gun recoiling and hitting your face. With four inches of leeway, you can protect your eye while still getting a good view of your target.
Objective Lens Size(s)
Depending on the model you choose, you will have an objective lens of either 50mm or 44mm. The latter is quite common in medium-range hunting rifle scopes, although 50mm and larger are becoming more popular. The nice thing here is that choosing a larger objective lens won’t cause more light to transmit through. It might also make the scope more comfortable to work with; again, this depends on overall ability and skill level.
Tube Diameter
Both scopes have a 30mm tube body made of durable aluminum. The single-piece design allows for better internal adjustment as well as a sleeker look. You also get the advantage of better alignment for your target visuals. The tube is reinforced with a hard anodized finish and the matte surface won’t give off much glare, making it ideal for camouflage.
Light Transmission
The 6-24×50 and 4-16×44 have extra-low dispersion glass for images with higher fidelity and resolution. The XR fully multi-coated proprietary lenses are anti-reflective and increase overall light transmission. Both scopes come with a four-inch sun shade and protective lens cap. The 6-24×50 will give you a bit more light through the objective lens.
Turrets and Adjustments
The tactical turrets on the 6-24×50 and 4-16×44 have ¼ MOA adjustment graduation and 12 MOA travel per rotation. Where they differ is in the maximum elevation and windage adjustments. The 6-24×50 maxes out at 65 MOA while the 4-16×44 reaches 75 MOA. Both have a fiber optic turret rotation indicator to provide a point of reference and the exposed turrets make for quick, easy accuracy adjustments.
Parallax Settings and Adjustments
Both scopes offer a parallax setting of 50 yards to infinity with side focus adjustments conveniently on the left side of the turret. This makes accessibility safe and easy while helping you get the optimal image focus for your tactical or long-range shots. The Precision-Force Spring System makes for simple adjustments and maximum repeatability, which allows you to make more shots in less time.
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Conclusion
Overall, these Viper rifle scopes will serve you well for long-range shooting or tactical scenarios. With their large magnification and zoom ranges, you can take them along for a variety of practice rounds. They’re not the most lightweight but they aren’t too heavy either so they can accompany your shooting rifle just fine.
While these scopes are great for longer distances, you don’t want to rely on them for shorter-range shots. Their magnification ranges and hashmark-based reticles are meant for longer distances and allow you to hold on to an accurate target even with that extended range. Plus, the tactical-style turrets with ¼ MOA increments make reading elevation and windage adjustments a breeze. As the name Viper HST suggests, you will want to use this for tactical shooting or hunting at long distances.
