Is the Vortex Razor HD 13-39x56 Spotting Scope Worth It? Full Field Test & Review
Today, I’m diving into the RAZOR® HD 13-39x56 spotting scope. Whether you're glassing for game or birdwatching, this scope offers premium features. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it stand out in the field."
FEATURES OVERVIEW
The RAZOR® HD 13-39x56 is designed around Vortex’s HD Optical System. This system is optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration, and provide fantastic color fidelity and sharpness. However, I did notice some clarity loss along the edges of the image.
It also features XR™ Plus lens coatings, which maximize light transmission for peak clarity, especially in low-light conditions. This is a major plus for early morning or evening glassing sessions.
OPTICAL PERFORMANCE
The optical performance of the RAZOR® HD is impressive. With magnification ranging from 13x to 39x and a 56mm objective lens, it offers bright, clear views of distant subjects, making it ideal for spotting wildlife at various ranges.
Dielectric Prism Coatings provide bright, clear, and color-accurate images, and the Phase Correction coatings enhance resolution and contrast. The apochromatic, index-matched lenses ensure that you get true-to-life colors across the entire visual spectrum.
While the center of the image is incredibly sharp, there is some edge softness. This is likely due to the coatings and glass quality, but it doesn’t detract too much from the overall viewing experience.
SPECIFICATIONS
Here are the key specs of the RAZOR® HD 13-39x56:
Magnification: 13-39x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Eye Relief: 15.0mm - 17.8mm
Angular Field of View: 3.2° - 1.7°
Close Focus: 9.2 feet
Linear Field of View: 168' - 89' at 1000 yards
Length: 10.4 inches
Weight: 28.6 ounces"
With a weight of just 28.6 ounces and a compact length of 10.4 inches, this scope is easy to carry around, making it an excellent option for backcountry hunters or anyone who needs portability without sacrificing performance.
STRAIGHT RAZOR MODEL
Now, if you’re interested in a slightly different form factor, the RAZOR® HD 13-39x56 also comes in the Straight Razor model, which is 11.1 inches long. This version gives you a more direct line of sight, making it ideal for users who prefer a straight-through design when spotting.
BUILD & DURABILITY
Christopher (on camera):
Durability is another strong suit for the RAZOR® HD. It features Armortek® coatings that protect the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, and the rugged rubber armor gives it a secure, non-slip grip, even in wet conditions.
The scope is argon gas-purged and O-ring sealed, ensuring it’s fogproof and waterproof. Whether you're out in heavy rain or snow, the RAZOR® HD will hold up in tough weather conditions. Plus, it’s shockproof, so it can withstand impacts from rough use in the field.
FOCUS & ERGONOMICS
The helical focus mechanism is smooth and precise, allowing you to dial in your focus quickly and with ease. This is crucial when you’re adjusting for different distances during long glassing sessions.
The RAZOR® HD is also tripod adaptable and Arca-Swiss compatible, allowing you to mount it on a tripod or car window mount for steady viewing, which is incredibly useful when you're using it for extended periods.
PORTABILITY & FIELD USE
Weighing just 28.6 ounces, this scope is compact and lightweight. It’s easy to carry on long hikes without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.
PROS & CONS
Let’s wrap up with the pros and cons.
Pros:
HD Optical System with apochromatic lenses for superior color correction
XR™ Plus coatings for maximum light transmission and clarity
Dielectric Prism Coatings for bright, accurate images
Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction with argon gas purging
Armortek® coating protects lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt
Tripod adaptable and Arca-Swiss compatible
Lightweight and compact, great for backcountry use
Available in both angled and straight versions (Straight Razor: 11.1" long)
Vortex VIP Warranty
Cons:
Slight loss of clarity along the edges
Limited magnification range (13x-39x)
Price point may be higher compared to some competitors
CONCLUSION
Overall, the RAZOR® HD 13-39x56 is a fantastic spotting scope. While the edge softness may be a downside to this optic for some, its optical clarity, rugged build, price, and compact design make it an excellent choice for anyone needing a lightweight, high-performance scope for the field. And with the Straight Razor version at 11.1 inches, you get a more direct line of sight for those who prefer that style.
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