Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope

Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope

$499.00 Sale

Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Second Focal Plane Riflescope

 
Achieve high magnification while still maintaining clarity with the Vortex 6.5-20x50 Viper Riflescope. Vortex Optics is a family-own company operated by hunters and competition shooters. With this background, you can trust the brand to anticipate the optic needs of a wide range of shooters. The 6.5-20x50 Riflescope is a popular release from the Vortex lineup. It excels in hunting, target competition, and tactical situations. The tube is machined with computer precision from a single piece of airplane-grade aluminum. The one-piece construction makes this device extremely durable and practically immune to heavy recoil. This sportsman accessory is completely waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof. The Viper is easily adjustable to the individual shooter. The turrets on the Vortex 6.5-20x50 Riflescopes are capped. This is intended as a “set it and forget it” scope. The turrets are adjustable without tools in 1/4 MOA clicks. Each click can be detected by hand and ear as you make the adjustment. The turret markings are simple and understandable. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is custom designed to eliminate guesswork. Once your scope is zeroed in at the range, you can return to zero at any time. Simply pull the knobs out all of the way then turn them into position and release. You are now back to the set zero. In fact, the Viper can take countless shots with magnum loads without losing zero. The grayish tan matte ArmorTek scratch-resistant coating minimizes glare and helps act as camouflage, hiding the location of the shooter. Vortex uses a premium dielectric glass and a phase correcting roof prism that provides you with a sharper sight image. This premium high-density glass offers the shooter full sharpness. Therefore, you'll be able to define details of the target at an amazing distance. Vortex further enhances clarity with a proprietary anti-reflective coating called XR. XR anti-reflective coating, with 95 % light transmission, allows you a crisp, clear sight picture even at top magnification. The glass lenses of the riflescope have amazing clarity, even at twilight and at the maximum power setting. At its lowest power, the Viper has an exit pupil of 7.7mm, giving you excellent vision in low-light conditions. These riflescopes use the standard nitrogen flush and fill method. After flushing, anhydrous nitrogen gas is sealed into the interior of the scopes. The O-rings seal the nitrogen in and seal moisture and any contaminants out. The dry nature of the nitrogen prevents any fogging inside the scopes. Its capabilities range from 6.5x to 20x. It is suitable for a variety of long-range shooting, including hunting, tactical, and target applications. With a 50mm objective, the Viper is perfect for extreme range shots. It features a Mil-Dot reticle, which is helpful when it comes to estimating range, windage, and bullet holdover. The reticle is etched into the center of three layers of glass for reliability. The Mil-Dot subtensions are most accurate all the way up to 20x. With a side knob for parallax adjustment, it is possible to change the parallax position with range numbers visible. You can do this while remaining in the shooting position. To clean the Viper lenses, start with compressed air or an optical brush. Use optic cleaning fluid and lint free cloth accessories specifically intended for lens glass. Product Identifiers Brand Vortex Model 6.5-20x50 Viper UPC 875874001831, 875874001848 Key Features Type Rifle Scope Magnification 6.5-20x Series Viper Technical Features Reticle Mil Dot Dimensions Length 14.4 in

What our Experts Think
  • Proven mid-to-long range performance (6.5–20x)
    The wide magnification range makes it ideal for varmint hunting, target shooting, and medium-to-long range applications, offering flexibility without overcomplication.
  • Second Focal Plane (SFP) simplicity
    Reticle remains constant in size, giving a clean, easy-to-see aiming point—best suited for shooters who prefer dialing rather than complex holdovers.
  • Sharp, reliable optics for its class
    Fully multi-coated lenses provide good clarity, brightness, and contrast, especially in the mid magnification range where most real-world shooting happens.
  • Adjustable parallax for precision
    Side focus (parallax adjustment) allows fine-tuning at different distances, improving accuracy and reducing eye strain during longer sessions.
  • Solid turret system with usable adjustment range
  • 1/4 MOA click adjustments
  • ~68 MOA total travel
    Provides adequate dialing capability for extended distances in its category.
  • Durable, field-proven construction
    One-piece 30mm tube, fogproof design, and rugged build ensure reliable performance in hunting and outdoor conditions.
  • Lightweight compared to tactical scopes
    At ~21.6 oz, it’s easier to carry than modern heavy precision optics, making it suitable for hunting rifles.
  • Older design vs newer FFP optics (important)
    While still capable, it lacks modern features like FFP reticles, zero-stop turrets, and advanced glass, which are now common in newer models.

Q&A

Q1: What are the key features of the Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 PA riflescope?
A: This riflescope offers 6.5-20x magnification, a 50mm objective lens, XD glass, and XR multi-coated lenses for bright, sharp, and high-contrast images.

Q2: What does “PA” (Parallax Adjustment) mean?
A: PA refers to adjustable parallax, allowing shooters to fine-tune focus from around 50 yards to infinity for improved accuracy at varying distances.

Q3: Is this a First Focal Plane (FFP) or Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope?
A: It is a Second Focal Plane (SFP) riflescope, meaning the reticle size remains constant as magnification changes.

Q4: Is this scope suitable for long-range shooting?
A: Yes. The 6.5-20x zoom range and precise adjustment system make it ideal for medium to long-range shooting, including hunting and target practice.

Q5: How is the optical clarity and performance?
A: XD (extra-low dispersion) glass and advanced coatings deliver excellent clarity, reduced chromatic aberration, and edge-to-edge sharpness.

Q6: What type of turrets and adjustments does it have?
A: It features target-style turrets with 1/4 MOA click adjustments and up to 68 MOA of elevation and windage travel for precise corrections.

Q7: Is the Viper 6.5-20x50 PA durable and weatherproof?
A: Yes. It is argon-purged, fogproof, and built with a rugged one-piece tube for reliable performance in harsh conditions.

Q8: Does it have an illuminated reticle?
A: No. This model uses a non-illuminated reticle, such as Mil-Dot or Dead-Hold BDC, for simple and reliable targeting.

Q9: What is the tube size and why is it important?
A: It has a 30mm tube, providing increased adjustment range and durability compared to smaller tube sizes.

Q10: Who should buy the Vortex Viper 6.5-20x50 PA riflescope?
A: Ideal for hunters and shooters seeking a reliable, mid-range priced scope with solid optical performance and proven durability for long-distance shooting.


Maintenance Tips
  • Clean lenses with care: Use a microfiber cloth + lens-safe solution only. Fully multi‑coated optics require gentle cleaning to maintain brightness and clarity.
  • Keep lens caps on: Always protect the 50mm objective and eyepiece from dust, scratches, and debris when not in use.
  • Avoid touching glass surfaces: Fingerprints reduce light transmission and can degrade image sharpness at higher magnifications.
  • Check parallax adjustment: Adjustable objective (PA) should be used correctly to eliminate parallax error for accurate long-range shots.
  • Verify turret tracking: Ensure windage/elevation adjustments (1/4 MOA clicks) remain precise for consistent shot placement.
  • Secure mounting regularly: The 30mm tube must stay properly torqued to maintain zero and reliability.
  • Store in dry conditions: Fogproof and durable, but prolonged exposure to moisture can still affect seals and longevity.
  • Wipe exterior after use: Clean off dirt, oil, and moisture to preserve the rugged body and prevent wear.
  • Avoid extreme heat or impact: While built for harsh environments, excessive shock or heat can affect internal alignment and performance.
  • Check focus & eye relief: Maintain proper eye relief (~3.1–3.3") and focus for safe, comfortable shooting.