Vortex Strikefire II: Performance Glass For Your AR

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Released in 2014, the Strikefire II represents one of several red dot reflex sights currently in the Vortex Optic lineup, and an evolution over its predecessor in terms of battery life and design. Powered by a CR2 lithium battery, it offers shooters a ruggedized and reliable reflex optic at an affordable price.

From the exterior, the chassis of the Strikefire II is made from a single piece of aluminum, resulting in a shock-proof housing. The outer layer of the chassis is then hard-coat anodized in a matte black to provide the shooter with a low-glare surface. Both lenses in the Strikefire II are sealed in multiple anti-reflective coatings that maximize clarity. Both fixed endcaps to the optic cannot be removed in lieu of other aftermarket designs. Finally, the internal space is purged with nitrogen gas to cut down fogging at all extreme temperatures.

The Strikefire II comes in two models (one Daytime Red Dot reticle and another in dual Red/Green) with each featuring a 4MOA dot (the only ones offered by Vortex at a 30mm lense diameter) that is ideal for reflex target acquisitions. The reticle has 10 intensity settings (with the lowest two compatible for night vision devices). Power life for a single CR2 battery in the Strikefire II is approximately 300 hours on the brightest setting, and 6,000 hours on the lowest. To give you an idea of some of the improvements to the Strikefire II’s design, the previous Strikefire model only had 100 hours of battery life on the brightest setting.

Locking Nut for Cantliver Mount
Comparison Between Strikefire II (Right) and PRO (Left)
Comparison Between Strikefire II (Right) and PRO (Left)

The picatinny rail mount for the Strikefire II is a lower 1/3 co-witness, cantilever-style.

STRIKEFIRE-RSpecifications for the Vortex Strikefire II include:

  • Magnification 1x
  • Objective Lens Diameter 30 mm
  • Eye Relief Unlimited
  • Adjustment Graduation 1/2 MOA
  • Travel Per Rotation 25 MOA
  • Max Elevation Adjustment 100 MOA
  • Max Windage Adjustment 100 MOA
  • Length 5.6 inches
  • Weight 7.2 oz

Product Evaluation Scores:

  • Cost – Good (4/5): At $239.99 the Strikefire II is of significant value for a mid-level, red dot optic with quality glass. Given the size, lenses, hard-coat anodization and other aspects of the optic (in comparison to the market of other similar optics), the price is affordable to most shooters looking to move from iron sights to red dot reflex sights.
  • Comfort – Average (3/5): With its 30mm objective lens, the Strikefire II gives a large amount of eye relief, and is comparable on an AR to an Aimpoint PRO in terms of field of view. Yet given the size of the optic and mount, the Strikefire II is best suited for a full-length rifle, and not an SBR or AR pistol because of rail space limitations when considering other accessories (such as a magnifier).
  • Durability – Excellent (5/5): There is an excessive number of videos on the internet speaking to the durability of Vortex optics, and the Strikefire II is no exception. The single piece chassis, O-ring gasket seals, and anodizing ensure the optic will continue to function regardless of impact, temperature, or moisture. But one of the areas Vortex shines over its competitors is its no-questions-asked Vortex VIP Warrantee where if the optic becomes damaged accidentally at any time, they will replace it (although they will want to hear the story). The only note impacting the overall durability of the Strikefire II is its lack of an automatic shutoff feature (found in the original Strikefire version) to extend battery life. With only 400 hours of battery live at max brightness, the CR2s won’t last long.
  • Functionality – Good (4/5): In our “Daytime Red Dot” model tested in this review, functionality was easy and straightforward. Adjusting the brightness via the left-side button console was smooth and each button had a slight tactile feel to each click. Likewise, adjusting the optic to zero was easy with both windage and elevation dials having a clear audio and tangible 1.2 MOA click to them. Really the only negative factor to functionality is the limited 400 hours run-time to the CR2 battery, but considering the vintage of the optic and technology at the time, that is to be expected.
  • Weight – Average (3/5): At 7.2 ounces the Strikefire II is comparable to other 30mm lens optics in the current market, and indeed within Vortex’s own red dot line. Yet for its weight and size, the Strikefire II remains very well anchored on the cantilever mount and retains zero. You can’t test the stand-alone center of gravity on the optic due to the cantilever mount, but the user will find a comfortable spot for it on their rail.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://vortexoptics.com/red-dots/vortex-strikefire-2-red-dot.html

IMG_2889I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

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