Vortex UH-1 Razor Holographic Optic: Built Tough

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Introduced at SHOT in 2017, the UH-1 Razor is Vortex’s premier reflex optic and first model using holographic sight technology. Its robust build and overall design play a fitting tribute to its UH-1 “Huey” namesake that was the US Army’s workhorse in Vietnam.

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UH-1 ERB-CQB Reticle

Designed with the tactical consumer in mind, the Razor features an ERB-CQB Holographic Reticle using FHQ Technology that minimizes stray light emissions from the optic. The Razor’s exterior utilizes a matte black, aircraft-grade aluminum housing to minimize reflectivity. The high-quality optical glass is coated in ArmorTek to increase scratch resistance, then sealed in an anti-reflective coating. The interior of the optic is sealed with Argon gas to maximize performance of the overall system and minimize parallax. The Razor also comes with a built-in picatinny quick disconnect mount and throw lever for ease in mounting.

The power source for the Razor is a lithium CR123A battery (with an average 1500hr run time in the UH-1). Alternatively, the optic can also use an LFP123A rechargeable battery that can be recharged using a micro USB cable connected directly into the side of the Razor’s housing. The UH-1 has 15 different brightness settings, and the reticle will pulse when 25 hours of run time remain (but that feature can be cancelled). To prevent potential power drain, the optic has an auto shutoff feature that power downs the Razor after 14 hours of inactivity (but again that feature can be deactivated if desired).

Vortex also backs up its optic line by offering a transferable lifetime warranty that supports the optic, regardless if the owner is the original purchaser or not.

Specifications for the Vortex UH-1 Razor:

  • Power: 1x
  • Objective: 35mm
  • Elevation Adjustment: 0.5 MOA per click
  • Windage Adjustment: 0.5 MOA per click
  • Reticle: Red ERB-CQB; Red 65-MOA Segmented Circle; 1-MOA Red Dot
  • Length: 3.6”
  • Width: 2.05”
  • Height: 2.5”
  • Weight: 11.08 oz.
  • Eye Relief: Unlimited
ERB-CQB Reticle Outdoor
ERB-CQB Reticle Indoor

Product Evaluation Scores:

  • Cost – Average (3/5): At $649.99 the UH-1 is a bit of an enigma. In comparison to the current market of holographic optics; EOTech, Leupold, Holosun, Sig, and yes…even Sightmark, holographic technology is only new for Vortex and not the greater market. The price point for the UH-1 at the time of this writing places it in the upper tier of the red dot market, and in the reviewer’s opinion out of consideration to most civilian consumers. Even in comparison, the price of the UH-1 places it on par with high-end EOTech XPS models that are specifically marketed to the military. With luck, in the future Vortex will offer something comparable at a more reasonable price range now that it has adopted the holographic technology into its optic line.
  • Comfort – Good (4/5): The Razor mounts easily via its integrated mount, and the field of view looking through the optic is one of the largest on the market (though as a rectangle). This translates to rapid target acquisition when transitioning between multiple targets. The Razor’s red ERB-CQB holographic reticle shows up bright in full sun, but somewhat broken. In comparison, in low-light or indoor settings the reticle is bright and clear, a difference likely attributed to the volume of ambient light entering the optic.
  • Durability – Excellent (5/5): The Razor’s aircraft-grade aluminum housing, and sealed internals makes it an extremely robust and durable optic. Some surface marring was attained during normal range stages and stressor drills, but none of these penetrated the hardened exterior coating. This supports the conclusion that the Razor is more an optic designed for customers within the Department of Defense and not civilians.
  • Functionality – Good (4/5): The speed in which I was able to acquire the target with respect to the Razor’s ERB-CQB reticle was notable. In essence, lining up a 10-ring circular target within the circular design of the reticle made for quick follow-up shots that were easily center mass. This is a clear advantage over red dot optics like Aimpoint that feature only a single dot as the point of aim. Zeroing the optic was easily achieved and the audible/tangible adjustment dials provided easy movement of the reticle.
  • Weight – Fair (2/5): At an overall weight of 11.08 oz. the Razor is 0.06 oz. heavier than an EOTech XPS, and 0.03 oz. heavier than a EOTech 512. The Razor is also 1.58 oz. heavier than a Leupold Carbine Optic, but in comparison to Holosun or other holographic optics, the Razor is more than three ounces heavier. This weight is directly attributable to the military grade, heavy-duty design and durability of the UH-1.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://vortexoptics.com/red-dots/razor-amg-reddot/vortex-razor-amg-uh-1-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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