Launched in early 2021, the Venom 5-25×56 FFP from Votex brings together basic and intuitive features shooters desire for moderate long-distance shooting, and rapid adjustment between variable distances to ensure consecutive shots on target.
With its standard 15.25” overall length, the Venom 5-25×56 First Focal Plane (FFP) delivers a solid optic platform for full-length bolt or semi-automatic rifles. The variable magnification and parallax adjustability make it an ideal optic for competition shooting or out on the hunt. The ArmorTek ® coating provides an ultra-hard surface that resists scratches, oil, and dirt.
With its single-piece housing of anodized aircraft-grade aluminum, the 34mm main tube and 56mm objective lens provide the greater overall dimensions to the Venom’s body. Its adjustable eyebell assembly provides the 5x – 25x magnification at a 3.6” eye relief. The removable throw lever assists in rapid adjustments between magnification levels. All connections within the Venom are IPX7 sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture penetration and nitrogen gas purged to prevent fogging.
Features within the Venom optic include its glass-etched EBR-7C reticle, and XD (Extra-low Dispersion) lens elements that have anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass elements to increase light transmission and clarity.
The exposed tactical-style turrets allow for immediate access for elevation/windage adjustment, and the grooves ensure consistent alignment as the shooter adjusts between various distances. Each turret provides adjustments of ¼ MOA per click. The RevStop™ Zero System in the elevation turret allows for adjustments to various elevation then rapid return to zero.
Specifications:
- Magnification……………….5x – 25x
- Eye Relief…..…………………3.6”
- Field of View (@100yd)…21.2’(5x magnification) – 4.7’ (25x magnification)
The Venom is available only in black and can be selected between an MOA or MRAD reticle.
Product Evaluation Scores:
- Cost – Excellent (5/5): With a list price of $699.99 the Venom 5-25×56 FFP provides a variable magnification optic for long distance shooting with features found in many top-shelf competitors. Included in the price is Vortex’s “No Questions Asked” warrantee for the life of the product. In contrast, market alternatives include the RT 5-25×56 ($839) from Burris, the Mark 5HD 5-25×56 ($1,999) from Leupold, and the ATACR 5-25×56 ($2,700) from Nightforce all illustrate that the Venom is excellently priced for its function and quality of glass amid the market of similar competitors offering similar products.
- Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect the Venom held a very comfortable eye relief with full view down the optic. The glass itself was very clear with no hint of colored tint around the edges of the field of view. The exposed turrets did provide a clear audible and tangible click with each increment changed and remained firmly locked into place throughout evaluations. Moreover the line markings on the elevation and windage correctly aligned with each adThe parallax adjustment did help to maintain a comfortable image sharpness within the context of the 5-25 magnification.
- Durability – Good (4/5): Durability wise the Venom was coated in a matte black using Vortex’s ArmorTek ® coating, which gave the optic’s exterior sufficient hardness and abrasion resistance. No scratches nor superficial marring was noted during evaluation from transporting and moving the rifle around and coming into contact with varied surfaces. Likewise the glass performed as expected (without using the sunshade) and neither became loose nor scratched. The Venom came with a lens cloth and rubberized bikini cover to protect the glass during non-use and ensure it was properly maintained. Moreover, as mentioned Vortex does offer its lifetime “VIP Warrantee” should your optic ever get damaged.
- Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally the Venom provided very good 5-25 magnification while keeping the glass clear. The adjustable eyepiece and parallax adjustment helped to ensure that targets remained clear and in focus throughout, and made ringing steel at 300 yards easy, even to the point of identifying bullet trace downrange. The EBR-7C reticle was short and clear, with incremental markings to adequately range targets and compensate for drop to the evaluated distances. Moreover, as the zoom was increased, the reticle remained sharp and clear. The RevStop™ Zero System worked well in that it basically allowed the end-user to take any distance and modify the elevation turret and reset the dial to zero for the new distance. That process could be repeated/adjusted over time if the end-user decided they wanted a different distance zero. Perhaps the only negative aspects from a functionalist point identified was the plastic adjustment tool that came with the optic and allows you to loosen the elevation turret to use the RevStop™ Zero. The tabs were very small and allotted little purchase, and easily snapped. Perhaps a recommendation to Vortex would be, although an accessory to the optic, to reexamine the design or polymer material for improvement. Elsewhere, adjusting the eyepiece for 5-25 zoom was very stiff even with the throw ring, and perhaps Vortex may want to think about loosening the tolerance a little.
- Weight – Fair (2/5): At a demure 35 ounces the Venom owed most of its weight to its anodized aircraft-grade aluminum body which made it strong enough to withstand the impulse of multiple rifle cycles, but not so heavy as to make the rifle top-heavy or off balance. This too added to its durability and strength in design to hold up over time and transportation. In contrast, the RT 5-25×56 (24.8 ounces) from Burris, the Mark 5HD 5-25×56 (30 ounces) from Leupold, and the ATACR 5-25×56 (39.1 ounces) from Nightforce show that the Venom is on the heavier side (most likely from the materials) and a fair weight amid the market of alternatives.
Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)
Product Link: https://vortexoptics.com/venom-5-25×56-ffp-riflescope.html
I 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.
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