Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope (Angled Viewing)

BH #VO1545X65A • MFR #V500
Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope (Angled Viewing)
Key Features
  • 45° Angled Viewing
  • 15-45x Zoom Eyepiece
  • Large 65mm Objective Lens
  • Dielectric-Coated Porro Prism
An ideal companion for mid- to long-range shooters and hunters, the 45° angled viewing Vortex Optics Viper HD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope delivers bright and sharp high-contrast images with true-to-life color and crisp clarity at all magnifications, even in low or challenging light conditions.
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Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 Overview

  • 1Description
  • 2Optical Performance
  • 3Use and Handling
  • 4Construction Details

An ideal companion for mid- to long-range shooters and hunters, the 45° angled viewing Vortex Optics Viper HD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope delivers bright and sharp high-contrast images with true-to-life color and crisp clarity at all magnifications, even in low or challenging light conditions.

Image quality is enhanced through the use of anti-reflection fully multi-coated high-density (HD) extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements in the lens system, and highly reflective dielectric and phase-correcting coatings on the Porro prism system. These optical features work together to maximize light transmission, increase color fidelity and contrast, and improve clarity and resolution throughout the entire zoom range. The large 65mm objective boosts the spotter's light-gathering capabilities to keep views bright and clear in even the most challenging light conditions and when observing subjects at extreme distances at the maximum magnification.

The large focus collar is easy to manipulate in cold and wet weather, and the the helical focusing system brings subjects into tack-sharp resolution without rotating the lens elements–maintaining precise optical alignment through the entire zoom and focus ranges. This version of the Viper HD is configured with the eyepiece set at a 45° angle relative to the optical tube to place your head in a comfortable viewing postion whether you're standing, sitting, or lying prone..

Complementing the optical performance are construction details that will protect the spotter for years. The chassis is made of a lightweight and corrosion-resistant magnesium alloy that is wrapped in a protective rubber armor. The optical tube is argon filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme changes in temperature and environmental conditions. A retractable sunshade prevents lens flare that can spook game and keeps rain and snow off the objective to ensure clear views in less-than-ideal weather. Vortex includes a custom-made stay-on/view-through nylon case that makes setup and breakdown on a tripod fast and easy, while adding another layer of protection and providing the ability to react fast when opportunities present themselves.

Optical Performance
  • Broad 15-45x fixed zoom eyepiece is ideal for mid- to long-range use
  • 65mm objective lens gathers the light required to use in challenging conditions and to ensure bright views when looking at distant subjects at high power
  • Traditional Porro prism light path produces clear and bright views without internal light interference
  • Dielectric prism coatings boost surface reflectivity to greater than 99% for maximum light transmission through the prism, with minimal loss and diffraction
  • High-density (HD), extra-low dispersion (ED) glass lens elements reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations for increased contrast and improved color rendition and sharpness without distortion across the entire field of view
  • Proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics increase light transmission for accurate color fidelity and improved contrast and clarity
  • ArmorTek exterior lens coatings resist scratches and abrasions while allowing oil, dirt, and sap to be cleaned off without leaving smudges or residue
  • 136.5-foot field of view at 1000 yards at 15x; 68-foot field of view at 45x
Use and Handling
  • 45° angled eyepiece to place the user's head in a comfortable viewing position when sitting, standing, or lying prone
  • Helical focusing mechanism focuses smoothly and quickly without rotating lens elements to maintain optical alignment for tack-sharp views
  • Large slip-resistant focusing collar is easy to manipulate in cold and wet weather or while wearing gloves
  • Twist-up rubber eyecup for comfortable use with or without eyewear
  • Standard 1/4"-20 mount is compatible with a wide variety of quick release (QR) plates, heads, and photo/video/field tripods; mounting shoe is compatible with select QR plates for faster mounting and removal
  • Rotating tripod collar allows user to precisely adjust the eyepiece position relative to tripod head
  • Long 19.6-17.8mm eye relief improves viewing comfort with reduced eyestrain
  • Comfortable 4.3mm exit pupil at 15x will cover most pupils as they open and dilate in low light to keep the whole scene in view without vignetting
Construction Details
  • Lightweight and durable magnesium-alloy chassis reduces overall weight without sacrificing strength
  • Protective rubber armoring provides a slip-resistant grip for more secure handling during setup and breakdown
  • Argon filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme changes in temperature and environmental conditions
  • Retractable sunshade prevents lens flare that can spook game, reduces glare to maintain contrast and clarity in the view, and keeps rain or snow off of the lens for clearer views in inclement weather
  • Nylon stay-on/view-through carrying case protects the spotting scope during transport and storage and allows for faster and safer setup and breakdown
UPC: 875874002258

Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 Specs

Design
Viewing AngleAngled
Performance
Magnification15 to 45x
Objective Lens Diameter65 mm
Field of View15x: 136.5' @ 1000 yd / 45.4 m @ 1000 m
45x: 67.8' @ 1000 yd / 22.6 m @ 1000 m
Minimum Focus Distance23.0' / 7.0 m
Exit Pupil Diameter15x: 4.3 mm
45x: 1.4 mm
Eye Relief19.6 to 17.8 mm
Features
FogproofYes, Argon Filled
Water ResistanceWaterproof
Environmental ProtectionAdvertised as Water Resistant
*Test Methodology Not Supplied
General
Tripod Mounting Thread1/4"-20 Female
DimensionsL: 14.0" / L: 35.6 cm
Weight3.7 lb / 1.7 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight5.65 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)15.3 x 8.25 x 6.2"

Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 Reviews

Glad I Switched

By Tony
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-01-18

I had originally order the Vortex Diamondback 20-60X85 scope, but was quite disappointed with it (reviewed separately). The chromatic aberration was the main problem, but not the only one. The sharpness at the extreme end was pretty bad and the scope was basically unusable as I approached the 60 mark. I talked to a B&H optics expert about the problems and asked if the Viper 15-45X65 scope would be a better choice for me. He said that the Viper having new lens coatings would probably be better with respect to CA but didn't think there would be much improvement in sharpness. When I received the 15-45X65, I immediately noticed an improvement in both the CA and the sharpness, especially at the upper limit. The difference with respect to the levels of chromatic aberration was most obvious. It was almost non-existent in the 15-45. Of course, I am comparing two different range scopes here. I figured that if the Diamondback was basically unusable at the upper magnification why get a scope with that range,. Maybe a shorter one would provide better quality in a smaller package, and that is exactly what I think I got with the Viper. For a little be more money, I ended up with a more usable scope for my purposes, one with less tele range, but with better sharpness and much less chromatic aberration. I'm glad I switched.

Good Clarity from Minimum to Maximum Zoom

By Brad
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2020-08-30

I use the scope at the rifle range and for wildlife viewing. Good view of target at 100 yards. Focus is good at maximum zoom.

Easy to use, great design.

By Thane
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-07-31

I got this for birding, and selected over the cheaper Diamondback 20-60X60 model. The reviews on that one seemed to indicate that it got darker/fuzzier at higher magnification, so I figured what's the point in having the extra magnification if it doesn't work great. It also seemed this would be more clear at the edges of the image. I gave it a test run in the yard tonight and I'm extremely pleased. It's easier to acquire the target and get it focused than I anticipated. I was able to zero in on some birds at relatively close and far distances without difficulty. The various knobs and controls are all easy to use and grip. My only complaints that were after putting it in the included neoprene protector, it wasn't as easy to access some of the knobs, so I took it off. I'd maybe prefer to just have some sort of carrying case. I considered getting one of the digiscoping mounts to take pictures with my phone or camera, but thought I'd try doing it by hand first. Had difficulty with the phone getting the camera over the image, but the camera was a big success, better than I hoped for. I'm using a point and shoot zoom camera, Sony RX100 M7, and luckily the end of the lens housing fits right over the scope eyepiece without touching the lenses together. So I can place it flush on there and it takes a really clear image. I'll attach some photos - camera with no zoom at 28MM, camera with full zoom at 200mm equivalent, and shooting through the scope, with the scope at 45X and camera not zoomed in at all. Note that the bird picture is clearer and sharper than it appears, I just shrunk it for upload purposes.

Very good scope

By Robert
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2020-07-26

View is crystal clear at all magnifications. Very happy with scope. Might have been better with a little more magnification 20-60 instead but could not try them in person ahead of time. The only negative is that it is hard to move the sunshade while the scope is in its provided cover. The included tripod is excellent.

Great scope for the money

By Diana
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-06-30

Love this scope! A bit heavier than expected, but not really much of an issue. Bright, sharp picture through the entire zoom range. Perfect for birding open spaces, and with the angled eyepiece it works nicely for amateur astronomy as well. The fitted neoprene case is an awesome added bonus. Excellent value overall, and a lifetime warranty too!

Better than expected

By Ryan
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-06-07

On par with a scope that my friend has and he paid 3x as much

Great for watching my bluebirds!

By Richard
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-04-29

I bought this scope for digi-scoping the bluebirds that now occupy the first bluebird box I've ever put up. I had tried DSLR zoom lenses including a 200-800 lens. The lesser lens didn't get close enough and the 200-800 didn't focus clearly enough. I had intended to use the spotting scope with the DSLR but I've found that my iPhone with a phone mount on this scope works great. The attached photo was taken at about 18-20 zoom from about 75 feet. See how clear it is! It's so fun to watch the brooding female poke her head out of the box. I assume that's to cool down a bit and get a breath of fresh air. Photo was taken through window glass and not necessarily in the best lighting conditions. Videos taken with the iphone through the scope are just as good or better.

Nice spotting scope

By Ricardo
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-11-10

I use It for HawkWatching. Very nice, good quality. The view Is clear and crisp.

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What's the diameter of the eyepiece on the Vortex ...

What's the diameter of the eyepiece on the Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 spotting scope?
Asked by: Maren
The diameter is 2.216" in diameter.
Answered by: Alex S
Date published: 2021-05-12

What's the eyepiece diameter of this scope?

What's the eyepiece diameter of this scope?
Asked by: Maren
The diameter is 2.216" in diameter.
Answered by: Alex S
Date published: 2021-05-12

What is the model of this product, RS-64A or ...

What is the model of this product, RS-64A or RZR-65A?
Asked by: mark
It would be a RS-64A. The RZR-65A would be the Razor model
Answered by: John
Date published: 2019-05-13

question

What year is this scope? What phone skope works with this model?
Asked by: Taylor W.
It was first released in 2018 and they have not release a newer version as of yet.
Answered by: Dan
Date published: 2019-11-07

where is this made?

where is this made?
Asked by: russell
The Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope is made in China.
Answered by: Dan
Date published: 2023-03-30

Can this be used to digiscope for birding?

Can this be used to digiscope for birding?
Asked by: Peter
Yes . Please search Novagrade Digiscoping adapter on our web site for Nikon , Canon and other cameras
Answered by: Shalom
Date published: 2020-08-14

question

Is this New?
Asked by: Anonymous
This is the new 2018 version of the Viper HD spotting scope
Answered by: Troy
Date published: 2018-12-25
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