The Vortex Warranty

[Vor Techs]

I have read a few past threads in the outdoorsman forum in regards to Vortex products. I have only found a couple in which the owners had an issue with the product. But, the real issue is that they did not take advantage of our warranty, and instead complained that there was an issue and did nothing about it.

Vortex is very proud of the products we put out for our customers. I want everyone here to know that although we try to make the highest quality of optics possible,if you do have a piece of vortex equipment and it is not functioning properly, please send it to us and we will be happy to look at it for you. Most times we can repair the item here in Canada or it might be needed to go to the USA for a major repair. We look at each case individually, and if it is needed and in the customers best interest we will replace it. The only cost to you the customer is to ship the item to us. We look after return shipping it back to you.
It is very important to know that we are here to help you and to ensure you the customer are happy with your purchase. However, if you do not speak up and let us know if there is a problem, we wont be able to help you. So, if you do have an issue let us know and we will make it right. We want to keep you effective while your in the field.

Thank You
Reg

[Mhunter51]

Very nice to see that your company is actually taking note of the comments on here and taking the time to respond to the unsatisfied customer comments. Unlike WS that couldn't care less how many negative comments they receive. I bought a Vortex scope this fall and am quite impressed with it so far. Keep up the good customer service.

[JustBen]

I only had good service when it came to my warranty claim. My Ranger 1000 stopped ranging, went back to Vortex, and within two weeks I had a brand new one at my house.

Pretty good warranty when you consider even the electronics are included!

[morinj]

Reg I been struggling between purchasing, a leupold, or Vortex for my .270
You have made up my mind, I'm gonna go with a nice Vortex. Wondering if maybe you have any suggestions. Bare in mind I'm a target shooter, and currently working on perfecting my 400+ shot, and also wish to keep my groupings at 200. I'm working my way up!!! I would really value your opinion.
Thank you!!!

[ctd]

I can say my experience with Vortex Scopes has been nothing but disappointing.
Do far my range finder ha worked well.

I bought a HSLR 4-16x50 FFP scope a couple of years ago. Mounted it on a Tikka Lite 30-06. sighted the scope in at the range. Was very happy. put a couple hundred rds through the rifle. Verifying the scope and turrets getting confident with the scope out to 600 meters.

Put the scope away in my safe. A month or so later go back to the range to verify zero before hunting. It was not zeroed, was shooting off a few inches. Thought maybe I adjusted the turrets. Got it back on zero or so I thought. Held Zero until I either adjusted the magnification or changed my turret setting. It would be way off, but consistent.

Went back to a local dealer and chatted with him about the issue. Replaced my rings, loosened cleaned up and re tightened stock screws, site mount, cleaned the rifle, then went back to the range shot the rifle and scope. again would not hold zero after adjusting.

Went back to the dealer, they noticed the reticle was swinging back and forth when adjusting the magnification They exchanged the scope over the counter.

Went back to the range sited in the new scope, never thought another thing about it.
Went hunting missed a shot at 200 meters, went back to the range rifle was shooting low and to the right. Did some verification would not hold a zero. Would shoot consistent until any adjustment was made then it would change MPI significantly and hold that zero until an adjustment was done again.

Finally after eliminating all other avenues with the rifle, mounts and ammo I sent the scope back to Vortex. They fixed it no problem. The erector ring was loose, causing a shift of the cross hairs.

As soon as I got the scope back I phoned Vortex and asked if the problem is fixed or if it would happen again. I was told if it happened again send it back and they would warranty it.
Not being satisfied I put the scope up for sale the next morning. Took a big loss on the scope, not to mention the $700+ in ammo I used to site in the two different scopes from them Both of which had failures.

My question is have you fixed this issue with the erector rings on your HSLR model, is this issue a common issue with FFP scopes, if it is what is being done to build customer (my) confidence back that your product will not fail after light use.

I honestly was so excited when I bought that scope. It had everything I wanted in a scope. Multiple ways to range find, consistent measurements, accuracy and decent price point.
Although I vowed to never own a Vortex scope again. If you can assure me that the issues have been rectified I might be swayed to look into buying one again.

[jayboots]

While I didn't personally use or have to use the warranty, but my dad and Cousin both have, both times traded their scopes in for the same model and continue to have the same problem. finally sold both their scopes.
What I've personally found, the regular diamondbacks are a great replacement for the standard scopes that come on rifles. as for the higher class scopes (HSLP, Viper etc) we've found that they are junk. better to spend the money right the first time, get a scope that you can trust not something that may need to use the "amazing warranty"
Spend the same amount and get a something like a Leupold, also has lifetime warranty, never have issues, and if you do have any issues there is a local dealer/repair place, (Korth group in Okotoks) will fix free of charge, and if the scope is done you will get the same if not better scope. return shipping paid and everything.

I know this is the vendor posting it so Im going to expect some heavy product pushing, and no offence but Ive lost my trust in Vortex. I have 2 dimondbacks on 2 of my rifles, they arent bad, but the clarity just isnt there for me.

[Vor Techs]

Originally Posted by ctd

I can say my experience with Vortex Scopes has been nothing but disappointing.
Do far my range finder ha worked well.

I bought a HSLR 4-16x50 FFP scope a couple of years ago. Mounted it on a Tikka Lite 30-06. sighted the scope in at the range. Was very happy. put a couple hundred rds through the rifle. Verifying the scope and turrets getting confident with the scope out to 600 meters.

Put the scope away in my safe. A month or so later go back to the range to verify zero before hunting. It was not zeroed, was shooting off a few inches. Thought maybe I adjusted the turrets. Got it back on zero or so I thought. Held Zero until I either adjusted the magnification or changed my turret setting. It would be way off, but consistent.

Went back to a local dealer and chatted with him about the issue. Replaced my rings, loosened cleaned up and re tightened stock screws, site mount, cleaned the rifle, then went back to the range shot the rifle and scope. again would not hold zero after adjusting.

Went back to the dealer, they noticed the reticle was swinging back and forth when adjusting the magnification They exchanged the scope over the counter.

Went back to the range sited in the new scope, never thought another thing about it.
Went hunting missed a shot at 200 meters, went back to the range rifle was shooting low and to the right. Did some verification would not hold a zero. Would shoot consistent until any adjustment was made then it would change MPI significantly and hold that zero until an adjustment was done again.

Finally after eliminating all other avenues with the rifle, mounts and ammo I sent the scope back to Vortex. They fixed it no problem. The erector ring was loose, causing a shift of the cross hairs.

As soon as I got the scope back I phoned Vortex and asked if the problem is fixed or if it would happen again. I was told if it happened again send it back and they would warranty it.
Not being satisfied I put the scope up for sale the next morning. Took a big loss on the scope, not to mention the $700+ in ammo I used to site in the two different scopes from them Both of which had failures.

My question is have you fixed this issue with the erector rings on your HSLR model, is this issue a common issue with FFP scopes, if it is what is being done to build customer (my) confidence back that your product will not fail after light use.

I honestly was so excited when I bought that scope. It had everything I wanted in a scope. Multiple ways to range find, consistent measurements, accuracy and decent price point.
Although I vowed to never own a Vortex scope again. If you can assure me that the issues have been rectified I might be swayed to look into buying one again.

Like any mechanical device there is always a possiblity that something may fail. We are constantly making improvements and are on the cutting edge of optics manufacturing. I am sorry that you had a bad experience with one our products. But, our goal is to keep the customer in the field,on the range or on combat operations and be effective. And to do that you must strive to be the best. In my eyes we are the best. In this industry, you have many options in optic manufacturing to choose from. And with that being said there is a reason for Vortex Optics being one of the best of the best out there. The company never forgets who pays their salary, you the shooter. And the people at vortex are shooters. They use the product they sell and make. I am not going to write a novel here on why you should be a vortex customer.
You can ask the millions of vortex owners out there, and they will tell you.
I am just going to say that no other company has their finger on the pulse of what a shooter needs to succeed in the shooting sport than VORTEX optics.
We are making some amazing products and next year is going to change the optics game. And if your not on board, it wont take you long to figure out that you are missing out!
Actions speak louder than words, and I am a big believer that bullet holes in the target don't lie.
What ever scope you have on your rifle, I wish you the best with it.
Thanks
Reg

[Vor Techs]

Originally Posted by ctd

I can say my experience with Vortex Scopes has been nothing but disappointing.
Do far my range finder ha worked well.

I bought a HSLR 4-16x50 FFP scope a couple of years ago. Mounted it on a Tikka Lite 30-06. sighted the scope in at the range. Was very happy. put a couple hundred rds through the rifle. Verifying the scope and turrets getting confident with the scope out to 600 meters.

Put the scope away in my safe. A month or so later go back to the range to verify zero before hunting. It was not zeroed, was shooting off a few inches. Thought maybe I adjusted the turrets. Got it back on zero or so I thought. Held Zero until I either adjusted the magnification or changed my turret setting. It would be way off, but consistent.

Went back to a local dealer and chatted with him about the issue. Replaced





my rings, loosened cleaned up and re tightened stock screws, site mount, cleaned the rifle, then went back to the range shot the rifle and scope. again would not hold zero after adjusting.

Went back to the dealer, they noticed the reticle was swinging back and forth when adjusting the magnification They exchanged the scope over the counter.

Went back to the range sited in the new scope, never thought another thing about it.
Went hunting missed a shot at 200 meters, went back to the range rifle was shooting low and to the right. Did some verification would not hold a zero. Would shoot consistent until any adjustment was made then it would change MPI significantly and hold that zero until an adjustment was done again.

Finally after eliminating all other avenues with the rifle, mounts and ammo I sent the scope back to Vortex. They fixed it no problem. The erector ring was loose, causing a shift of the cross hairs.

As soon as I got the scope back I phoned Vortex and asked if the problem is fixed or if it would happen again. I was told if it happened again send it back and they would warranty it.
Not being satisfied I put the scope up for sale the next morning. Took a big loss on the scope, not to mention the $700+ in ammo I used to site in the two different scopes from them Both of which had failures.

My question is have you fixed this issue with the erector rings on your HSLR model, is this issue a common issue with FFP scopes, if it is what is being done to build customer (my) confidence back that your product will not fail after light use.

I honestly was so excited when I bought that scope. It had everything I wanted in a scope. Multiple ways to range find, consistent measurements, accuracy and decent price point.
Although I vowed to never own a Vortex scope again. If you can assure me that the issues have been rectified I might be swayed to look into buying one again.

You may have just gotten one that had some issues from the start.
The tolerances in our scopes are extremely close, but at the same time they can take the punishment handed out. We are always making improvements to our products. You said it the best,"you were so excited to get the scope.
We have some exciting things happening next year. Just check it out, and see what you think. Wont cost you anything to do some research.

Thanks
reg

[CThomson80]

Originally Posted by ctd

I can say my experience with Vortex Scopes has been nothing but disappointing.
Do far my range finder ha worked well.

I bought a HSLR 4-16x50 FFP scope a couple of years ago. Mounted it on a Tikka Lite 30-06. sighted the scope in at the range. Was very happy. put a couple hundred rds through the rifle. Verifying the scope and turrets getting confident with the scope out to 600 meters.

Put the scope away in my safe. A month or so later go back to the range to verify zero before hunting. It was not zeroed, was shooting off a few inches. Thought maybe I adjusted the turrets. Got it back on zero or so I thought. Held Zero until I either adjusted the magnification or changed my turret setting. It would be way off, but consistent.

Went back to a local dealer and chatted with him about the issue. Replaced my rings, loosened cleaned up and re tightened stock screws, site mount, cleaned the rifle, then went back to the range shot the rifle and scope. again would not hold zero after adjusting.

Went back to the dealer, they noticed the reticle was swinging back and forth when adjusting the magnification They exchanged the scope over the counter.

Went back to the range sited in the new scope, never thought another thing about it.
Went hunting missed a shot at 200 meters, went back to the range rifle was shooting low and to the right. Did some verification would not hold a zero. Would shoot consistent until any adjustment was made then it would change MPI significantly and hold that zero until an adjustment was done again.

Finally after eliminating all other avenues with the rifle, mounts and ammo I sent the scope back to Vortex. They fixed it no problem. The erector ring was loose, causing a shift of the cross hairs.

As soon as I got the scope back I phoned Vortex and asked if the problem is fixed or if it would happen again. I was told if it happened again send it back and they would warranty it.
Not being satisfied I put the scope up for sale the next morning. Took a big loss on the scope, not to mention the $700+ in ammo I used to site in the two different scopes from them Both of which had failures.

My question is have you fixed this issue with the erector rings on your HSLR model, is this issue a common issue with FFP scopes, if it is what is being done to build customer (my) confidence back that your product will not fail after light use.

I honestly was so excited when I bought that scope. It had everything I wanted in a scope. Multiple ways to range find, consistent measurements, accuracy and decent price point.
Although I vowed to never own a Vortex scope again. If you can assure me that the issues have been rectified I might be swayed to look into buying one again.

I am glad I read this, I was looking at getting this exact setup. Think I will shell out a bit more and go to something else.

[HyperMOA]

Originally Posted by ctd

I can say my experience with Vortex Scopes has been nothing but disappointing.
Do far my range finder ha worked well.

I bought a HSLR 4-16x50 FFP scope a couple of years ago. Mounted it on a Tikka Lite 30-06. sighted the scope in at the range. Was very happy. put a couple hundred rds through the rifle. Verifying the scope and turrets getting confident with the scope out to 600 meters.

Put the scope away in my safe. A month or so later go back to the range to verify zero before hunting. It was not zeroed, was shooting off a few inches. Thought maybe I adjusted the turrets. Got it back on zero or so I thought. Held Zero until I either adjusted the magnification or changed my turret setting. It would be way off, but consistent.

Went back to a local dealer and chatted with him about the issue. Replaced my rings, loosened cleaned up and re tightened stock screws, site mount, cleaned the rifle, then went back to the range shot the rifle and scope. again would not hold zero after adjusting.

Went back to the dealer, they noticed the reticle was swinging back and forth when adjusting the magnification They exchanged the scope over the counter.

Went back to the range sited in the new scope, never thought another thing about it.
Went hunting missed a shot at 200 meters, went back to the range rifle was shooting low and to the right. Did some verification would not hold a zero. Would shoot consistent until any adjustment was made then it would change MPI significantly and hold that zero until an adjustment was done again.

Finally after eliminating all other avenues with the rifle, mounts and ammo I sent the scope back to Vortex. They fixed it no problem. The erector ring was loose, causing a shift of the cross hairs.

As soon as I got the scope back I phoned Vortex and asked if the problem is fixed or if it would happen again. I was told if it happened again send it back and they would warranty it.
Not being satisfied I put the scope up for sale the next morning. Took a big loss on the scope, not to mention the $700+ in ammo I used to site in the two different scopes from them Both of which had failures.

My question is have you fixed this issue with the erector rings on your HSLR model, is this issue a common issue with FFP scopes, if it is what is being done to build customer (my) confidence back that your product will not fail after light use.

I honestly was so excited when I bought that scope. It had everything I wanted in a scope. Multiple ways to range find, consistent measurements, accuracy and decent price point.
Although I vowed to never own a Vortex scope again. If you can assure me that the issues have been rectified I might be swayed to look into buying one again.

I currently have the exact same issue with a Viper. I will be sending it in this week, maybe I will send a letter with it requesting info on the failure and see if they tell me anything about it. Mine is mounted on a .338 Win Mag, but that shouldn't really have any bearing on these common failures. I probably only have 100 rounds through it. Was seriously considering a PST FFP, but I think I will hold off and see what they have to say. It was quite inconvenient as this scope failed right during our hunt. Luckily a friend had a spare rifle we pilfered the rings and scope off of.

[Vor Techs]

Originally Posted by morinj

Reg I been struggling between purchasing, a leupold, or Vortex for my .270
You have made up my mind, I'm gonna go with a nice Vortex. Wondering if maybe you have any suggestions. Bare in mind I'm a target shooter, and currently working on perfecting my 400+ shot, and also wish to keep my groupings at 200. I'm working my way up!!! I would really value your opinion.
Thank you!!!

Send me an email and I will help you make a choice.
reg@vortexcanada.net

[MK2750]

Originally Posted by Vor Techs

I have read a few past threads in the outdoorsman forum in regards to Vortex products. I have only found a couple in which the owners had an issue with the product. But, the real issue is that they did not take advantage of our warranty, and instead complained that there was an issue and did nothing about it.

Vortex is very proud of the products we put out for our customers. I want everyone here to know that although we try to make the highest quality of optics possible,if you do have a piece of vortex equipment and it is not functioning properly, please send it to us and we will be happy to look at it for you. Most times we can repair the item here in Canada or it might be needed to go to the USA for a major repair. We look at each case individually, and if it is needed and in the customers best interest we will replace it. The only cost to you the customer is to ship the item to us. We look after return shipping it back to you.
It is very important to know that we are here to help you and to ensure you the customer are happy with your purchase. However, if you do not speak up and let us know if there is a problem, we wont be able to help you. So, if you do have an issue let us know and we will make it right. We want to keep you effective while your in the field.

Thank You
Reg

With all due respect Reg, the real issue is catastrophic failure of a product in the field. Warranty is great but it doesn't make you feel better if you have just gut shot an animal because your scope wouldn't hold zero. A buck of a lifetime is just that, you will never have the opportunity again and there is no amount of compensation that is going to change that or reduce the suffering of the animal.

You folks have done a very good job on advertising, convincing me to try the product. I could have written the story above about the two scopes not holding zero as my experience was identical, all be it with a different model.

I am also curious about the "in the customer's best interest" statement above in regards to product replacement. When would it not be in the customer's best interest to receive a new product over a refurbished product with a history of failure? I was under the impression that Vortex offered over the counter replacement from their dealers. In fact I received this service. Has the warranty policy changed over the last few years?

On a positive note, I was impressed with the glass considering price point. I would consider purchasing Vortex binoculars in the future.

[coreya3212]

I need to go out with my rifle and check zero at multiple magnifications to see if it stays zeroed. I have a vortex on my coyote rifle. THink I better check that out.

[elkhunter11]

Obviously a good warranty is desirable, but once a customer has experienced multiple failures of a product , simply repairing or replacing the product is not going to restore the customer's confidence in that product. I myself would never risk the outcome of a hunt, on a product that I don't have confidence in, so I would do exactly what ctd has done under the circumstance that he found himself in.

[Channonmanuel]

I have an illuminated scope from vortex 4-16 zoom, ffp, it's awesome it took a beating this hunting season and never once wasn't perfect zero. I have good faith in the scope after one year of use. I haven't had to use the warranty so I can't comment on that but quality of my scope is good. maybe you guys who are complaining about quality send it in get a new one, things could break doesn't matter what scope you have. I'm gonna be buying a 4-12 vortex this winter for my .243. I have also shot my ffp scope on all zooms and it's perfect throughout its range.

[Bergerboy]

Originally Posted by elkhunter11

Obviously a good warranty is desirable, but once a customer has experienced multiple failures of a product , simply repairing or replacing the product is not going to restore the customer's confidence in that product. I myself would never risk the outcome of a hunt, on a product that I don't have confidence in, so I would do exactly what ctd has done under the circumstance that he found himself in.

Your assumption is that Vortex replaced the scope on their being a manufacturing issue causing the failure. Sometimes companies replace things out of goodwill. I am not saying this is the cause but due to the high volume of good Vortex product I have seen, when there are two very similar failures, the scope is not the only common factor in the issue. From what I have been told at WSS one time was that you can run a Vortex over with your truck and as long as you return 51% of the product its covered. So if someone basically used it as a hammer and got it warrantied, its almost like Vortex is accepting guilt for the product. This may be one of those cases were no good deed goes unpunished.

Here is a excerpt from their warranty.
Our VIP warranty is about you, not us. It's about taking care of you after the sale.

VIP stands for a Very Important Promise to you, our customer. We will repair or replace your Vortex product in the event it becomes damaged or defective—at no charge to you. If we cannot repair your product, we will replace it with a product in perfect working order of equal or better physical condition.

You see, it doesn't matter how it happened, whose fault it was, or where you purchased it. You can count on the VIP Warranty for all Vortex Optics riflescopes, prism scopes, red dots, rangefinders, binoculars, spotting scopes, tripods, and monoculars.
•Unlimited Lifetime Warranty
•Fully transferable
•No warranty card to fill out
•No receipt needed to hang on to

If you ever have a problem, no matter the cause, we promise to take care of you.

[elkhunter11]

Originally Posted by Bergerboy

Your assumption is that Vortex replaced the scope on their being a manufacturing issue causing the failure. Sometimes companies replace things out of goodwill. I am not saying this is the cause but due to the high volume of good Vortex product I have seen, when there are two very similar failures, the scope is not the only common factor in the issue. From what I have been told at WSS one time was that you can run a Vortex over with your truck and as long as you return 51% of the product its covered. So if someone basically used it as a hammer and got it warrantied, its almost like Vortex is accepting guilt for the product. This may be one of those cases were no good deed goes unpunished.

Here is a excerpt from their warranty.
Our VIP warranty is about you, not us. It's about taking care of you after the sale.

VIP stands for a Very Important Promise to you, our customer. We will repair or replace your Vortex product in the event it becomes damaged or defective—at no charge to you. If we cannot repair your product, we will replace it with a product in perfect working order of equal or better physical condition.

You see, it doesn't matter how it happened, whose fault it was, or where you purchased it. You can count on the VIP Warranty for all Vortex Optics riflescopes, prism scopes, red dots, rangefinders, binoculars, spotting scopes, tripods, and monoculars.
•Unlimited Lifetime Warranty
•Fully transferable
•No warranty card to fill out
•No receipt needed to hang on to

If you ever have a problem, no matter the cause, we promise to take care of you.

I am not making any assumptions, I am just stating that once a person has lost confidence in a product, it doesn't matter whether the company repairs or replaces that product, the owner will likely never have confidence in that product again.

[Bergerboy]

Originally Posted by elkhunter11

I am not making any assumptions, I am just stating that once a person has lost confidence in a product, it doesn't matter whether the company repairs or replaces that product, the owner will likely never have confidence in that product again.

Fair enough, its just unfortunate that products reputation become eroded by misconceptions. An example of this is people who dislike a certain rifle for misfires due to light primer strikes but have never stripped the bolt, not cleaning a 700 trigger group and having a "Remington Event". Thats my point. I know of WAY more Leupolds that have gone back for warranty work, that being said, I know of way more people using them.

[precloading]

Originally Posted by Bergerboy

Your assumption is that Vortex replaced the scope on their being a manufacturing issue causing the failure. Sometimes companies replace things out of goodwill. I am not saying this is the cause but due to the high volume of good Vortex product I have seen, when there are two very similar failures, the scope is not the only common factor in the issue. From what I have been told at WSS one time was that you can run a Vortex over with your truck and as long as you return 51% of the product its covered. So if someone basically used it as a hammer and got it warrantied, its almost like Vortex is accepting guilt for the product. This may be one of those cases were no good deed goes unpunished.

Here is a excerpt from their warranty.
Our VIP warranty is about you, not us. It's about taking care of you after the sale.

VIP stands for a Very Important Promise to you, our customer. We will repair or replace your Vortex product in the event it becomes damaged or defective—at no charge to you. If we cannot repair your product, we will replace it with a product in perfect working order of equal or better physical condition.

You see, it doesn't matter how it happened, whose fault it was, or where you purchased it. You can count on the VIP Warranty for all Vortex Optics riflescopes, prism scopes, red dots, rangefinders, binoculars, spotting scopes, tripods, and monoculars.
•Unlimited Lifetime Warranty
•Fully transferable
•No warranty card to fill out
•No receipt needed to hang on to

If you ever have a problem, no matter the cause, we promise to take care of you.

Leupold has the same warranty, is made in the U.S. and has been in business for over 100 years.
Most everyone in the scope manufacturing is offering a lifetime warranty, but none of the others have been around that long. Warranty is provided at a cost based on amount of returns expected by manufacturer and is only provided as long as the manufacturer is in business. So lets take a look at a couple of examples based on Cabellas prices;

Scope manufactured off shore retailing for 299.99. Allowing for cost of bribing sales staff with free scopes based on number of sales made + 50%(guessing on this based on amount of reports of multiple returns by same individuals) returns before customer sells scope and moves on to different product scope likely cost 75.00 landed in Canada.

Leupold VX1 359.99 manufactured in U.S. offering lifetime warranty and has since they built their first scope in 1946. Will not pay sales staff to sell their product because they don't feel they need to. (So when a guy on the gun counter tells you a Leupold is the best bet you know he has YOUR best interest at heart). Warranty required 5% of all sales. Product likely cost at least 2.5 times more than import scope to build.

Bottom line I will buy the scope that has been offering a lifetime warranty that started before my lifetime over one that started recently. Has worked best for me for over 40 years and see no reason to change, but that is my choice and everyone will need to make their own. Choices change with experience and we all seem to come to our choices on our own. I have only needed to send one Leupold scope in for warranty and it was a used one I bought with a gun. Got a new one in replacement for it as it was around 40 years old and parts were discontinued. At that rate I will continue to buy Leupold and let my grandchildren worry about warranty

[Jordan Smith]

Originally Posted by precloading

Leupold has the same warranty, is made in the U.S. and has been in business for over 100 years.
Most everyone in the scope manufacturing is offering a lifetime warranty, but none of the others have been around that long. Warranty is provided at a cost based on amount of returns expected by manufacturer and is only provided as long as the manufacturer is in business. So lets take a look at a couple of examples based on Cabellas prices;

Scope manufactured off shore retailing for 299.99. Allowing for cost of bribing sales staff with free scopes based on number of sales made + 50%(guessing on this based on amount of reports of multiple returns by same individuals) returns before customer sells scope and moves on to different product scope likely cost 75.00 landed in Canada.

Leupold VX1 359.99 manufactured in U.S. offering lifetime warranty and has since they built their first scope in 1946. Will not pay sales staff to sell their product because they don't feel they need to. (So when a guy on the gun counter tells you a Leupold is the best bet you know he has YOUR best interest at heart). Warranty required 5% of all sales. Product likely cost at least 2.5 times more than import scope to build.

Bottom line I will buy the scope that has been offering a lifetime warranty that started before my lifetime over one that started recently. Has worked best for me for over 40 years and see no reason to change, but that is my choice and everyone will need to make their own. Choices change with experience and we all seem to come to our choices on our own. I have only needed to send one Leupold scope in for warranty and it was a used one I bought with a gun. Got a new one in replacement for it as it was around 40 years old and parts were discontinued. At that rate I will continue to buy Leupold and let my grandchildren worry about warranty

Most Leupold scopes are not made in the US, and Leupold doesn't have a no-fault warranty policy.

[Redneck 7]

I have a few Vortex scopes on my varmint rifles that get used the most, Leupolds on my big game rifles and a vortex on my long range.

The 2-7x35 diamond back I have on my semi auto .22 597 HB, I smack gophers at 100 yards all day with it on 4 power.

When I had my HMR it sported a diamond back 4-12x40 on it and it clovered every time I took it out. That scope is now on my coyote rig. See how it shoots today.

Unfortunately my vortex hmr-1 4-16x44 has an issue and I haven't even shot the rifle with it on, I'm mailing it in and not losing hope. It is bad timing but I'm to busy to shoot it anyways

Vortex is a good company with great products. I've not been let down once.

[.257Weatherby]

Originally Posted by elkhunter11

Obviously a good warranty is desirable, but once a customer has experienced multiple failures of a product , simply repairing or replacing the product is not going to restore the customer's confidence in that product. I myself would never risk the outcome of a hunt, on a product that I don't have confidence in, so I would do exactly what ctd has done under the circumstance that he found himself in.

Right you are, and no matter how much the offer is to replace/repair it , it still leaves one with confidence issues in their gear.

But, that is the same with anything one buys ...say as in a vehicle.
How man Ford 6.0L owners where bitten and still drive that truck or Fords for that matter.
Seems Reg is fighting a loosing battle with some.

Me, Ill stick with Leupold for fit , function and aesthetics on my rifles.
Not hacking Vortex, I think they have a good product and tossed their name to prospective buyers to consider , but they just are not for me .

They sound like a stand up company, but obviously not everyone can be happy.

Rob

[Dick284]

After seeing one poor fellow have successive failures of 4 different Vortex products, I'm convinced to never buy any Vortex products. All the wonderful warranty does you no good if the products keep failing when you need them the most.

With that in mind I've only ever had one optics failure that I sent away for warranty work. It was a Bausch and Lomb Balver 2.5-10x40 riflescope, Bushnell tried to breath life into it but in the end replaced it with a 4200 Elite.

I currently own over a dozen pieces of Leupold, at least 10 Bushnell, and a half dozen Nikon, and a few Redfield, 1 Zeiss, 1 Sightron, and 1 Weaver.

Knock wood as they say.

[Xbolt7mm]

Originally Posted by Dick284

After seeing one poor fellow have successive failures of 4 different Vortex products, I'm convinced to never buy any Vortex products. All the wonderful warranty does you no good if the products keep failing when you need them the most.

With that in mind I've only ever had one optics failure that I sent away for warranty work. It was a Bausch and Lomb Balver 2.5-10x40 riflescope, Bushnell tried to breath life into it but in the end replaced it with a 4200 Elite.

I currently own over a dozen pieces of Leupold, at least 10 Bushnell, and a half dozen Nikon, and a few Redfield, 1 Zeiss, 1 Sightron, and 1 Weaver.

Knock wood as they say.

One person “said” they had multiple issues while others said they have had no problems of any kind. Yet you let that one person determine that you will never own the product. You must have a difficult time buying a vehicle as it would be considerably easier to find several people to dispute the quality/warranty of every make and model of vehicles being made. I myself would never let someone else determine what i did or did not own, would i use it as something to watch for, certainly, but that goes both ways good and bad. I find leopold to have problems as well, several people including myself have had these scopes where you need two hands to zoom it. I just leave mine on 6 and live with it. The zeiss conquest is in the same price range as the III/3 leopold but has glass that is easily noticeably more clear yet people still buy the leopold for name and appearance as they are a good looking scope with nice available lense covers but noticeable lesser quality than the zeiss in the same price point. Now I certainly would not expect anyone to write a comment saying they would never buy a leopold because some guy on the internet says the zoom ring “always” is too stiff or that the Zeiss is ugly compared to a Leopold.

[Dean2]

Originally Posted by Vor Techs

I have read a few past threads in the outdoorsman forum in regards to Vortex products. I have only found a couple in which the owners had an issue with the product. But, the real issue is that they did not take advantage of our warranty, and instead complained that there was an issue and did nothing about it.

Vortex is very proud of the products we put out for our customers. I want everyone here to know that although we try to make the highest quality of optics possible,if you do have a piece of vortex equipment and it is not functioning properly, please send it to us and we will be happy to look at it for you. Most times we can repair the item here in Canada or it might be needed to go to the USA for a major repair. We look at each case individually, and if it is needed and in the customers best interest we will replace it. The only cost to you the customer is to ship the item to us. We look after return shipping it back to you.
It is very important to know that we are here to help you and to ensure you the customer are happy with your purchase. However, if you do not speak up and let us know if there is a problem, we wont be able to help you. So, if you do have an issue let us know and we will make it right. We want to keep you effective while your in the field.

Thank You
Reg

I give you full credit for being willing to enter the lions den and face the end users of your products in public. That said, I too own Vortex product. I too have had to use the warranty to fix product defects on each scope. Not one of the scopes I bought didn't require fixing. While the warranty service was very good I no longer have Vortex on anything I need to rely on 100%. Of the people I know that own or have owned Vortex scopes and binnocualrs I do not know one that has not had to use the warranty.

I have other scopes with Lifetime no quibble warranties, specifically Leupold and Nightforce. I have never had to send anything back to them that I didn't break myself through accidental damage, drop from up high, horse roll over etc. I in fact had one that got hit so hard it bent the tube and cracked the glass in the objective. The scope continued to hold zero after being reset and I got my animal later in the week, then sent the scope back. Some of the scopes we have are over 40 years old. Of all my associates I only know one who had to return a Leupold scope for a manufacturer defect that caused it to be unusable. I don't know anyone who had to return a Nightforce but then there are a lot less of them out there.

I believe you need to focus less on the Warranty and advertising and FAR MORE on building a robust scope that works and will stand up to 40 years in the field.

[qwert]

Originally Posted by Dean2

snip
I believe you need to focus less on the Warranty and advertising and FAR MORE on building a robust scope that works and will stand up to 40 years in the field.

Products that last 40 years are bad for new sales.

I have great glass and average glass, I will never buy average glass again, and am in the market for more great glass and suspect there is an S&B in my future. I really like my NF but the US$ makes the S&B a similar price, and I can find few NF dealers with stock or who intend to reorder.

Good Luck, YMMV.

[ctd]

I know when I bought my HSLR it was the most expensive scope I owned or any of my friends owned. I was proud of that fact. I was also proud that it had every feature I have ever wanted in a scope. With FFP as the primary purchase point.
I babied that scope. Because I wanted it to last, it was going to be the last scope I ever bought.
I kind of take offense to someone insinuating that I purposely broke or complaimed about the scope.
Simply put I am hard on my equipment. Rifle falling out of my gun boot at 80km/hr off my quad. Getting all scratched up. Guess what I still have that $400 rifle and $380 scope. Both look worse for wear. But both function proprely.

My Vortex was mounted on top of my Tikka 30-06. Shot well for the first couple hundred rounds. And broke. New scope same thing.

If I hadn't lost my shirt on that Vortex purchase and ammo costs to site in, verify and redo all over again I would have a different scope on my rifle.

Guess what I have the package scope Burris 3x9x40 on it now. Waiting for the day I can afford another thousand or so bucks to buy a new scope. Might even go to 2,000.

I know this for a fact anyone insinuating I broke on purpose or just wanted to smear Vortex is a idiot and has never met me or know how excited I was when I first purchase that scope. Nor do they comprehend how dissapointed I was when I had to admit defeat and swallow my pride to my friends when I dismounted that scope and put it up for sale. I was Vortex this and Vortex that. Convinced them to buy binos and range finders.which by the way have worked flawlessly.
I think it was a scope qc issue. But the frustration I had, was unbelievable.

[Dean2]

Originally Posted by qwert

Products that last 40 years are bad for new sales.

Good Luck, YMMV.

Only partly true. It convinced me to buy and sell a couple of hundred Leupolds over my lifetime and I have probably influenced 5 times that many people into buying them over the last 40 years.

[qwert]

Originally Posted by Dean2

Only partly true. It convinced me to buy and sell a couple of hundred Leupolds over my lifetime and I have probably influenced 5 times that many people into buying them over the last 40 years.

Satisfied customers make the best and most effective salesmen.

My personal philosophy,

Don't buy anything you do not need, but if you need it, buy the best.
Quality and good design are always the best value.
Buy once, cry once.

Good Luck, YMMV.

[skidderman]

Leupold and only leupold for me. Not much different warranty than vortex but my experience is one rarely needs leupold's warranty. I want something I can trust when or if that once in a lifetime opportunity happens. Perhaps once vortex is around longer that trust may come. Nice to see different options though.