Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 Review

I’ve been running the Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 for nearly eighteen months now, and it’s time I shared my honest thoughts on this scope. When you’re dropping over two grand on glass, you want to know exactly what you’re getting – not marketing hype, but real performance data from someone who’s actually used the thing in demanding conditions. I mounted this scope on my .300 Win Mag specifically to see if it could handle serious precision work at extended distances, and whether the extra money over mid-tier options was justified.

This isn’t a scope for casual plinking. It’s designed for competitors and serious long-range shooters who need every advantage they can get. The question is: does it deliver?

Why You Should Trust Me?

I’m Jerry, and I’ve been shooting for over 25 years across multiple disciplines. I’ve competed in 1000-yard matches, F-Class competitions, and practical rifle events. More importantly, I’ve tested over 200 different scopes throughout my shooting career – everything from budget optics to five-figure tactical glass. I know what separates a scope that looks good on paper from one that actually performs when conditions get tough.

I don’t pull punches in my reviews. If something doesn’t work as advertised, I’ll tell you. I’ve seen too many shooters waste money on gear that fails when it matters most, and my goal is to help you make informed decisions based on real-world performance, not manufacturer claims.

How I Tested the Vortex Razor HD Gen II

Testing high-end scopes requires more than just casual range time. I mounted this Razor on my custom .300 Win Mag built on a Remington 700 action with a Bartlein barrel. My testing ammunition was Federal Gold Medal Match 190gr Sierra MatchKing, which this rifle consistently shoots under 0.12 MRAD. Over eighteen months, I’ve fired approximately 850 rounds through this setup, including three different precision rifle competitions and numerous extended-range sessions.

My testing protocol was thorough. I conducted tall target tests to verify tracking accuracy, shot multiple box tests at different temperatures, and extensively tested the scope’s performance at dawn and dusk to evaluate its light transmission capabilities. I also subjected it to temperature extremes – from sub-freezing winter mornings to 95-degree summer afternoons – to see how the mechanics held up under stress.

Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 Review

Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 Specs

Specification	Value
Magnification	4.5-27x
Objective Lens	56mm
Eye Relief	3.7 inches
Field of View	25.3-4.4 ft @ 100 yards
Tube Size	34mm
Click Value	0.1 MRAD
Travel Per Rotation	10 MRAD
Max Elevation Adjustment	33 MRAD
Parallax	32 yards to infinity
Length	14.4 inches
Weight	48.5 ounces
Reticle Position	First Focal Plane

My Test Results

Field Test	Measurement	Notes
100yd Group Size	0.13 MRAD	Average of 8 five-shot groups
600yd Group Size	0.25 MRAD	Average of 5 five-shot groups
1000yd Group Size	0.38 MRAD	Average of 3 five-shot groups
Tracking Accuracy	0.2 MRAD	Over 25 MRAD elevation travel
Return to Zero	Excellent	Perfect after 100+ dial cycles
Low Light Score	8.5/10	Usable 30+ min after sunset
Temperature Test	Pass	10°F to 95°F with no POI shift
Durability Test	Excellent	850+ rounds of .300 Win Mag

Testing conducted using custom .300 Win Mag on Remington 700 action with Federal Gold Medal Match 190gr ammunition.

Optical Performance & Reticle

The glass quality on the Razor HD Gen II is where you really start to see what your money buys. This scope features HD (High Definition) extra-low dispersion glass with APO (apochromatic) elements, and the difference is immediately noticeable when compared to lower-tier optics. Edge-to-edge clarity is exceptional – I can read wind at 1000 yards without any distortion creeping in from the periphery. Color fringing is virtually nonexistent, even when glassing targets against bright backgrounds.

I’m running the EBR-7C reticle in MRAD, and it’s proven to be extremely functional for precision work. The Christmas tree wind holds in the lower portion give me fast corrections without dialing, which shaved seconds off my stage times in competition. The reticle is illuminated with 11 brightness settings, though I rarely use illumination except in very low light conditions. Being first focal plane, the reticle scales with magnification, so your holdovers are accurate at any power setting.

In low light conditions – which I tested extensively during early morning elk hunts – this scope significantly outperforms mid-tier options. I could clearly resolve a 10-inch steel plate at 600 yards a full 35 minutes after sunset, which is about 10-15 minutes longer than my Viper PST Gen II could manage.

Turret System & Tracking

The L-Tec zero stop system is one of the standout features of this scope. Setting it up is straightforward – you dial to your zero, use the included tool to adjust the zero stop, and you’re done. The mechanical execution is flawless. After dialing up 20 or 25 MRAD for a long shot, I can spin the turret back down and it stops exactly at zero every single time. No slop, no overshoot, no guesswork.

The turrets themselves are tall, tactile, and extremely precise. Each 0.1 MRAD click is distinct and audible – you can count clicks without looking, which is critical during timed competition stages. The locking mechanism on the windage turret is solid and prevents accidental adjustments while moving between shooting positions. I ran a comprehensive tracking test using a tall target at 100 yards, dialing up 25 MRAD and back down multiple times. The tracking error measured just 0.2 MRAD over the entire travel range, which is excellent for any scope at this price point.

One minor annoyance: the turrets are quite tall, which can make the scope feel bulky in some mounting configurations. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to consider if you’re running low rings.

Magnification Range & Parallax

The 4.5-27x magnification range hits a sweet spot for long-range precision work. At 4.5x, I’ve got enough field of view to quickly locate targets and assess wind conditions across a valley. At 27x, I can clearly see bullet splash on steel at 1200 yards and read mirage for wind calls. The image remains crisp throughout the entire magnification range, though there’s a slight softening at the very top end that’s common with high-magnification scopes.

The parallax adjustment is located on the left side of the turret housing, making it easily accessible from the shooting position. It’s properly damped – not too loose, not too stiff – and the focus is razor sharp when properly adjusted. The markings are reasonably accurate, though as with any scope, you’re better off adjusting for clarity rather than relying on the yardage indicators. I typically run the parallax set somewhere between 400-600 yards for most of my shooting, fine-tuning as needed for each target.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The 3.7-inch eye relief is adequate for most shooting positions, though it’s not as generous as some hunting scopes. With my .300 Win Mag, I’ve never had any issues with scope bite, even during extended shooting sessions. The eye box – the three-dimensional space where you can position your eye and still get a full sight picture – is reasonably forgiving at lower magnifications but tightens up considerably as you approach 27x.

During competition, where I’m constantly shifting between shooting positions and dealing with unconventional angles, I found myself occasionally hunting for the sight picture at maximum magnification. It’s not a major problem, but it’s something to be aware of. For precision shooting from a stable position, the eye box is perfectly adequate. If you’re planning to use this scope for dynamic shooting scenarios where you need to get on target quickly from awkward positions, you might want to dial back from maximum magnification.

Build Quality

The construction on the Razor HD Gen II is top-notch. The 34mm main tube is machined from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides excellent strength and internal adjustment range. The anodized finish is durable and has held up well to the inevitable bumps and scrapes of competition use. After eighteen months, my scope shows some wear on the turret knurling and a few minor scratches on the objective bell, but nothing that affects function.

Vortex’s ArmorTek coating on the exterior lenses does an excellent job repelling water, fingerprints, and dust. I’ve used this scope in pouring rain, and water beads right off the lenses. The scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making it completely waterproof and fogproof. I’ve never experienced any internal fogging, even when moving the scope rapidly between extreme temperature differences.

The one weakness in build quality is the weight. At 48.5 ounces, this scope is heavy. Combined with a substantial rifle and a bipod, you’re carrying a serious load. For competition where you’re moving the rifle frequently, it’s noticeable. For stationary precision work or shooting from a bench, the weight actually helps stabilize the system.

Mounting & Accessories

Here’s my current setup with the Razor HD Gen II:

• Seekins Precision 34mm rings (high height for 56mm objective clearance)
• Anti-cant level mounted on scope tube
• Vortex Defender flip caps (front and rear)
• 4-inch sunshade (included with scope)
• Quality lens pen and microfiber cloth

Performance Scores

Category	Score	Notes
Optical Quality	27/30	Exceptional clarity with minimal CA
Durability	24/25	Bombproof construction, heavy weight
Usability	18/20	Excellent turrets, tighter eye box at max mag
Value	11/15	High price but performance justifies cost
Features	10/10	L-Tec zero stop, FFP, illumination
Total Score	90/100	Top-tier performance for serious shooters

See how I test and rate scopes. Learn more

Advantages:

• Exceptional optical clarity with HD glass
• Precise, repeatable tracking with L-Tec zero stop
• Excellent low-light performance
• First focal plane reticle with useful subtensions
• Bombproof construction backed by VIP warranty

Drawbacks:

• Heavy at 48.5 ounces
• Expensive compared to mid-tier options
• Eye box tightens considerably at maximum magnification
• Tall turrets can interfere with some mounting setups

How It Compares Against Similar Optics

Model Comparison	Magnification	Optical Quality	Build Quality	Tracking	Value	Overall Rating
Vortex Razor HD Gen II	4.5-27×56	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Good	90/100
Nightforce ATACR	5-25×56	Excellent	Outstanding	Outstanding	Fair	92/100
Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS II	4.5-30×50	Very Good	Very Good	Very Good	Very Good	85/100
Kahles K525i	5-25×56	Outstanding	Excellent	Excellent	Fair	91/100

The Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 is the direct competitor most people cross-shop with the Razor HD Gen II. Having used both extensively, I can say the ATACR has slightly better glass and possibly more robust internals, but you’re paying an extra $1000-1200 for those marginal improvements. For most shooters, including competitive PRS shooters, the Razor delivers 95% of the ATACR’s performance at a significantly lower price point. The ATACR is built like a tank and has a reputation for absolute reliability, which might matter if you’re a military or law enforcement professional who absolutely cannot have a scope failure.

The Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS II offers similar specifications and costs about $300-500 less than the Razor. The glass quality is good but doesn’t quite match the Razor’s clarity and color correction. The XRS II’s turrets are functional but lack the refined feel of the Razor’s L-Tec system. If budget is tight and you need a capable long-range scope, the Bushnell is worth considering. However, if you can stretch to the Razor’s price point, you’re getting noticeably better performance.

The Kahles K525i is a European scope with exceptional glass quality that slightly edges out the Razor in clarity and color fidelity. It’s also lighter by about 5 ounces, which matters if you’re trying to build a lightweight precision rig. The downside is price – the Kahles typically costs $500-800 more than the Razor. For pure optical performance, the Kahles wins, but the Razor offers better value and comes with Vortex’s unbeatable VIP warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Razor HD Gen II worth the extra cost over a Viper PST Gen II?

This depends entirely on your shooting goals. If you’re shooting recreationally at ranges under 600 yards, the Viper PST Gen II will serve you well and save you about $1000. However, if you’re competing seriously or regularly shooting past 800 yards, the Razor’s superior glass quality, better low-light performance, and more precise tracking make it worth the investment. The difference becomes especially apparent in challenging lighting conditions and at extended distances.

Can this scope handle heavy magnum recoil?

Absolutely. I’ve been running mine on a .300 Win Mag for eighteen months with zero issues. The scope is built to withstand heavy recoil, and I’ve seen them used successfully on everything from .338 Lapua to .375 CheyTac. Just make sure you’re using quality rings properly torqued to spec, and you’ll have no problems.

How does the illumination perform?

The illumination is bright and even across all 11 settings. The lowest settings are dim enough for night vision compatibility, while the highest settings are visible in full daylight. Battery life on the CR2032 is excellent – I’m still on my original battery after eighteen months of occasional use. The illumination dial is easy to access and operates smoothly without affecting your cheek weld.

What’s the real-world difference between this and the Gen III Razor?

The Gen III Razor (6-36×56) offers more magnification and is about 10 ounces lighter, which is significant. The glass quality is marginally better, and the turrets have been slightly refined. However, the Gen III costs about $1000 more. For most precision shooting applications, the Gen II provides all the performance you need. The Gen III makes sense if you’re regularly shooting ELR (extreme long range) past 1500 yards or if weight reduction is critical for your setup.

How important is the 34mm tube compared to 30mm tubes?

The larger 34mm tube provides more internal adjustment range, which translates to more elevation travel for long-range shooting. With 28.5 MRAD of elevation adjustment, I can easily reach out to 1200+ yards with my .300 Win Mag without needing a canted rail. The larger tube also provides a slightly brighter image and potentially better image quality, though the difference is subtle compared to a high-quality 30mm scope.

Is the FFP reticle difficult to see at low magnification?

The EBR-7C reticle is well-designed with heavy enough outer posts that remain visible at 4.5x, while the center crosshair is fine enough for precise holdovers at high magnification. I’ve never had trouble seeing the reticle at any magnification, even against dark backgrounds. The illumination is there if you need it, but I rarely find it necessary except in very low light or when shooting into shadows.

Final Words

The Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 sits in that sweet spot where performance meets (relatively) reasonable pricing. Is it cheap? No. Is it the absolute best scope money can buy? Also no – there are scopes costing twice as much that offer incrementally better performance. But for serious precision shooters who want top-tier performance without mortgaging their house, the Razor HD Gen II delivers exceptional value.

The glass quality is genuinely excellent, offering clarity and color correction that rival scopes costing significantly more. The L-Tec turret system is precise, repeatable, and confidence-inspiring. The scope’s built like a tank and backed by Vortex’s industry-leading VIP warranty. These aren’t small advantages – they’re the foundation of a scope you can trust when it matters.

The weight is a legitimate concern if you’re building a lightweight setup or plan to carry this rifle significant distances. At over three pounds, this scope adds substantial heft to any rifle system. The eye box tightening at maximum magnification is mildly annoying but not a dealbreaker for most shooting scenarios.

If you’re a competitive shooter looking to step up from mid-tier glass, or a serious long-range enthusiast who wants professional-grade optics without spending four grand, the Razor HD Gen II deserves your serious consideration. It’s proven itself reliable through hundreds of rounds of heavy magnum recoil, performed flawlessly in competitions, and continues to deliver the precision I need to make first-round hits at 1000+ yards. That’s the kind of performance that justifies the price tag.