Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 5-25×56 Review (2025 Updated)

After spending the last four months putting the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 5-25×56 through its paces, I’ve developed a pretty clear picture of what this scope can and can’t do. I picked it up specifically to test how well it would handle both long-range target shooting and hunting scenarios, mounting it on my custom Remington 700 build in 6.5 Creedmoor. From frigid morning hunting sessions to scorching afternoon precision drills, this scope has seen more than its fair share of challenging conditions.

Let me break down everything I’ve learned about this scope’s performance, from its optical clarity to its tracking precision, and help you decide if it’s worth your hard-earned money.

Why You Should Trust Me?

I’ve spent decades behind various firearms, from classic firearms to modern precision rifles. My journey started with basic hunting and target shooting, eventually leading to a deep focus on optics testing and evaluation. Over the years, I’ve helped countless new shooters select their first scopes and worked with experienced marksmen to optimize their setups. Unlike many reviewers who claim military or special forces backgrounds, I’m a civilian shooter who’s dedicated his life to understanding and testing firearms equipment.

My approach to testing is deeply rooted in practical, real-world scenarios. I believe in thorough, methodical evaluation under actual field conditions, not just controlled range environments. When I test a scope, I’m looking at how it performs in situations that matter to regular shooters – from dawn hunting scenarios to mid-day precision shooting.

How I Tested the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 5-25×56

For this evaluation, I mounted the Strike Eagle on my custom Remington 700 in 6.5 Creedmoor, using Hornady 140gr ELD Match ammunition for consistency. I chose this setup because it’s capable of sub-MOA accuracy, making it perfect for evaluating the scope’s true potential. Testing took place over four months, including 12 range sessions and multiple hunting trips, with approximately 400 rounds fired through various environmental conditions.

I conducted structured accuracy testing at ranges from 100 to 1000 yards, including tracking tests, low-light performance evaluation, and durability assessment. The scope saw use in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 95°F, through rain, fog, and dusty conditions. I paid particular attention to how well it maintained zero through transport and rough handling, as well as its performance during critical dawn and dusk periods.

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 5-25×56 Review

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 5-25×56 Specs

Specification	Value
Magnification	5-25x
Objective Lens	56mm
Eye Relief	3.7 inches
Field of View	24-5.2 ft @ 100 yards
Tube Size	30mm
Click Value	1/4 MOA
Parallax	15 yards to infinity
Length	14.6 inches
Weight	30.4 ounces

My Test Results

Field Test	Measurement	Notes
100yd Group Size	0.5 MOA	Average of 10 five-shot groups
500yd Group Size	0.8 MOA	Average of 5 five-shot groups
1000yd Group Size	1.2 MOA	Average of 3 five-shot groups
Tracking Error	0.25 MOA	Over 30 MOA elevation
Low Light Score	8.5/10	Usable 45 min past sunset
Zero Retention	Excellent	No adjustment needed after 400 rounds
Weather Test	Excellent	No issues in rain or temperature extremes
Impact Test	Pass	Maintained zero after drop tests

Testing conducted using custom Remington 700 6.5 Creedmoor with Hornady 140gr ELD Match ammunition.

Optical Performance & Reticle

The Strike Eagle’s glass quality really impressed me for its price point. The EBR-7C MOA reticle is clean and precise, with well-thought-out subtensions that work great for holdovers and wind calls. During my dawn shooting sessions, I could clearly distinguish 1-inch steel targets at 600 yards, which speaks volumes about the optical clarity. The 56mm objective lens and quality glass coatings definitely earn their keep in low-light conditions.

Color fidelity is excellent, with minimal chromatic aberration even when looking at high-contrast targets like black steel on snow. The edge-to-edge clarity holds up well through most of the magnification range, though you’ll notice some softening at the very edges when pushed to 25x. The illuminated reticle proved its worth during those critical last minutes of shooting light, with brightness settings that work well without overwhelming your eye.

For shooters needing more compact options, see my Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 review.

Turret System & Tracking

The exposed tactical turrets on the Strike Eagle are a standout feature. Each click is distinct and audible, with no mushiness or uncertainty. The zero-stop system is rock solid – I particularly appreciated this during a competition where I had to dial significant elevation changes between stages. Return to zero was spot-on every time, with my tracking tests showing only a quarter MOA deviation over 30 MOA of travel.

The revolution indicator gives you a clear reference of your elevation position, which proved invaluable during long-range sessions. I ran several box tests and found the tracking to be exceptionally reliable, with both windage and elevation adjustments moving point of impact exactly as expected. The turrets maintain their crisp feel even in cold weather, where some lesser scopes tend to get sluggish.

Magnification Range & Parallax

The 5-25x magnification range hits a sweet spot for both tactical and hunting applications. At 5x, the generous field of view (24 feet at 100 yards) gives you plenty of situational awareness for close-in shots or tracking moving targets. Cranked up to 25x, I could easily spot bullet impacts on paper at 1000 yards, making shot corrections straightforward.

The parallax adjustment, marked from 15 yards to infinity, is smooth and precise. The side focus knob is properly calibrated – when the target looks sharp, parallax is indeed minimized. This became particularly apparent during some awkward position shooting drills, where maintaining perfect head position wasn’t always possible.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

With 3.7 inches of eye relief, the Strike Eagle provides a comfortable viewing position that’s consistent throughout the magnification range. I found the eye box to be notably forgiving at lower magnifications, which is crucial for quick target acquisition or shooting from unconventional positions. Even wearing thick winter gear and shooting from awkward angles, I never had issues maintaining a full sight picture.

At the higher magnifications, the eye box does become more critical, but it’s still manageable. During a prone precision shooting session in gusty conditions, I could maintain a clear sight picture despite some movement – a testament to the scope’s thoughtful optical design.

Build Quality

The Strike Eagle’s 30mm main tube and overall construction feel reassuringly solid. At 30.4 ounces, it’s not the lightest scope in its class, but that weight speaks to its robust build quality. The anodizing has held up well through multiple field sessions, including an unexpected rainstorm during a competition that had me more worried about my ammunition than the scope.

Weather resistance has proven excellent – I’ve used it in temperatures from 20°F to 95°F without any internal fogging or zero shifts. The scope took a decent knock against a barricade during a stage run and held zero perfectly. The turret caps and flip covers still fit snugly after months of use, suggesting good quality control in the threading and seals.

While this model excels at extended distances, those prioritizing speed over magnification should check my Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 review for CQB and tactical applications.

Mounting & Accessories

Here’s what I used to get the most out of this scope:

• Vortex Pro 30mm rings (medium height)
• Vortex bubble level
• Defender flip caps (included with scope)
• Vortex lens cleaning kit
• Wheeler scope mounting level kit

Performance Scores

Category	Score	Notes
Optical Quality	26/30	Excellent clarity, minimal edge distortion
Durability	22/25	Solid build, excellent weather resistance
Usability	17/20	Intuitive controls, good eye box
Value	13/15	Excellent features for price point
Features	9/10	Well-thought-out feature set
Total Score	87/100	Outstanding performance for price

See how I test and rate scopes. Learn more

Advantages:

• Excellent glass clarity and low-light performance
• Precise, reliable tracking with positive turret clicks
• Effective zero stop system
• Wide magnification range suitable for multiple applications

Drawbacks:

• Relatively heavy at 30.4 ounces
• Eye box gets tight at highest magnification
• Some edge softness at 25x
• Illumination control could be more intuitive

How It Compares Against Similar Optics

Model Comparison	Magnification	Optical Quality	Build Quality	Tracking	Value	Overall Rating
Vortex Strike Eagle	5-25×56	Very Good	Very Good	Excellent	Excellent	87/100
Athlon Ares BTR	4.5-27×50	Good	Good	Very Good	Very Good	82/100
Primary Arms PLx	6-30×56	Very Good	Very Good	Very Good	Good	85/100
Burris XTR III	5.5-30×56	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Good	90/100

The Athlon Ares BTR offers similar features at a comparable price point, but the Strike Eagle edges it out in optical clarity and turret feel. While the Ares BTR provides slightly more magnification range, I found the Strike Eagle’s glass quality and edge-to-edge clarity to be noticeably better, especially in challenging light conditions. The Athlon’s tracking is good, but the Strike Eagle’s zero stop system and turret tactility feel more refined.

The Primary Arms PLx brings excellent Japanese glass to the table and a slightly higher maximum magnification. However, its additional features come with a higher price tag. While its optical quality is on par with the Strike Eagle, I found the Strike Eagle’s turret system to be more positive and consistent. The PLx does offer some advantages in its reticle options, but for most users, the Strike Eagle’s EBR-7C reticle provides everything needed for both tactical and hunting applications.

The Burris XTR III represents a step up in price and quality, offering superior glass and an even more refined turret system. Its zero stop implementation is particularly impressive, and the optical clarity is a noticeable step above the Strike Eagle. However, the XTR III costs significantly more, and for many shooters, the Strike Eagle’s performance will be more than adequate for their needs. The extra investment in the XTR III primarily benefits those pushing the limits of long-range precision shooting.

Although the Strike Eagle performs admirably in its price range, shooters seeking a more budget-friendly alternative with a similar magnification range might find the Vortex Crossfire II 6-24×50 to be a compelling option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How’s the illumination in low light?

The illumination system provides 11 brightness settings that work well in various lighting conditions. I found it useful for about 45 minutes after sunset, with the lower settings being particularly well-tuned for dawn and dusk shooting. The illuminated portions of the reticle don’t bloom or wash out, even on the highest settings.

Is it good for long-range hunting?

Yes, the Strike Eagle 5-25×56 excels in long-range hunting scenarios. The generous eye relief, clear glass, and precise tracking make it ideal for ethical hunting shots out to extended ranges. The 56mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering capability for those crucial dawn and dusk hunting opportunities.

How’s the warranty?

Vortex offers their VIP warranty – a lifetime, transferable, no-questions-asked guarantee. While I haven’t needed to use it with this scope, I’ve had experience with Vortex’s warranty service before, and they’re consistently excellent in taking care of their customers.

Does it track reliably for long-range shooting?

The tracking has proven extremely reliable in my testing. The turrets provide consistent adjustments with minimal deviation, and the zero stop system works flawlessly. I’ve done multiple box tests and long-range shot sequences, finding the scope returns to zero consistently and tracks true to its adjustments.

Final Words

After four months of intensive testing, the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25×56 has proven itself to be a remarkably capable scope that punches well above its weight class. It successfully bridges the gap between tactical precision and hunting applications, offering features and performance that would have cost twice as much just a few years ago.

The optical quality and mechanical reliability are the standout features here. While it’s not perfect – the weight might be an issue for some, and the eye box gets a bit tight at high magnification – these are minor compromises given the scope’s price point and overall performance. The tracking precision and zero stop implementation are particularly impressive, matching the performance of much more expensive optics.

If you’re in the market for a versatile scope that can handle everything from competition shooting to long-range hunting, the Strike Eagle 5-25×56 deserves serious consideration. It offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and value, backed by Vortex’s legendary warranty. While there are better scopes available, you’ll need to spend significantly more to get meaningful improvements in performance.