Trying to decide between the original Razor HD (5-20x50) or the Gen 2 (3-18x50). The eye relief and weight is better on the Gen 1 but I've never looked through one...only the Gen II. I prefer the length of the Gen II obviously.  This will be on a dual role (hunting / precision) 20" custom built .308 Win.

Have not had experience with the other, but just got in my 3-18x50 Gen 2 over the weekend, and if you are going to be carrying the rifle over any appreciable distance, you might want to look at the total weight of your carry rig, and see if you need to go with a lighter scope.

It is a hefty scope...


I had a thread here recently where I was deciding between this one and the NX8 Nightforce, which is a MUCH lighter scope, and while the general consensus went for the Vortex being a better scope both optically and in a precision role, the NX8 would be a slightly better choice for a hunting rifle at just over half the weight.

How is the glass clarity in your opinion? Close or noticeably better with Gen 2?

I do plan on hunting with this rifle some. However, in the deep south my deer hunts involve driving in and walking maybe 100 yards to my box stand. Weight isn't a huge factor but still considering it.

Yeah, LOL. I used to hunt in southwest Texas and it wasn't uncommon to hump it a 1000 yards to get to a stand. Now in the southeast it's a none issue.

Will go with the Gen II. Thanks.

The Gen1 is legitimately a first gen optic that was substantially upgraded with the Gen2.  The glass is demonstrably better, with the Gen2 having better attributes like color fidelity and resolution. You essentially get a brighter, clearer, more vivid picture.  This goes a long way towards the long term satisfaction with the optic.  The Gen2 is about at the pinnacle of optical capability at the moment for the price point.  The only way to step up in optical quality would be to get to the level that NightForce is running with the ATACR, but that would likely bring ATACR level pricing.  Buying a Gen1 would essentially be taking a step back in both optical quality and construction/design which I don’t believe is worth the few hundred dollars you’d save.  I’ve shot extensively with both, moreso actually with the Gen1, and I would never pick a Gen1 over a Gen2 under any circumstance.

Good points. I’ve actually never looked through the Gen 1 so sounds like I’d be disappointed. And from what I’ve found, there is no price difference between the 50mm Gen 1 and 50mm Gen 2. So it’s settled....I’m getting the pig. Almost 47 ounces....sheesh.