Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 14.5 x 7.4 x 5.28 inches |
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Package Weight | 1.94 Kilograms |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 14.3 x 7.4 x 5.4 inches |
Item Weight | 25 Ounces |
Brand Name | Vortex |
Country of Origin | United States |
Warranty Description | Unlimited, unconditional, lifetime warranty. |
Model Name | Razor HD Spotting Scope |
Color | Green |
Material | Composite |
Suggested Users | Unisex-Adult |
Number of Items | 1 |
Manufacturer | Vortex Optics |
Part Number | RZR-50S1 |
Model Year | 2015 |
Style | 11-33x50 - Straight |
Included Components | Spotting Scope, Eyepiece cap, Objective lens cover, View-through carry case |
Size | 11-33x50 Straight |
Sport Type | Hunting |
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98% positive over last 12 months
99% positive over last 12 months
97% positive over last 12 months
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Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes
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Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Vortex |
Model Name | Razor HD Spotting Scope |
Optical Tube Length | 11 Inches |
Eye Piece Lens Description | Vortex Optics |
Objective Lens Diameter | 1 |
Product Dimensions | 14.3"D x 7.4"W x 5.4"H |
Focus Type | Manual Focus |
Finderscope | Reflex |
Item Weight | 25 Ounces |
About this item
- The 11-33x50 Straight Razor is ultra-lightweight and packable for your convenience. The focus wheel is broken down to macro and micro adjustments, allowing the user to rapidly focus while the micro adjustment allows you to fine tune the image.
- Triplet Apochromatic lens combined with high density, extra-low dispersion glass delivers unparalled resolution and color fidelity. XR Plus anti-reflective coatings were applied to the lenses to yield maximum brightness for critical low-light glassing.
- The zoom eyepiece allows easy adjustments to magnification. The adjustable eyecup folds up and down for comfortable viewing with or without glasses.
- O-ring sealed and argon purged, the Razor HD delivers waterproof and fogproof performance. Armortek coatings protect the lenses from oil, scratches, and dirt. Rubber armor enhances both durability and grip for the user.
- Backed by our unlimited, unconditional, lifetime, VIP Warranty. A fully transferable promise to repair or replace your item if it becomes damaged/defective. Does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage or cosmetic damage that doesn't hinder performance.
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From the brand
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Our story has always started with you. Every time your heart skips a beat when you’re glassing a mountain and that bull appears; every time you feel the adrenaline sizzle in your blood at a “Shooter ready?” call; every time you bring us along for range day; and every time you trust us with your life in the line of duty you’re telling the story of what it means to belong to Vortex Nation.
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From the manufacturer
Razor HD 11-33X50 Straight Spotting Scope (RZR-50S1)
Compete at the highest level with an ultra-compact Razor HD spotter you can pack anywhere. The sophisticated triplet apochromatic lens system delivers high-definition views across the entire field of view—no color fringing, degradation of resolution or dilution of color fidelity at longer viewing distances. If you're keeping score, here's a scope with a total that adds up to 110 percent fast.
How to Use the Razor HD Spotting Scope
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Mount the Razor HDAttach the Razor HD to a tripod or car window mount for steady viewing. Simply secure the tripod mount foot on a quick-release plate or mounting plate of the tripod head. |
Adjust the EyecupThe adjustable eyecup on the 50 mm Razor HD spotting scope folds back so you can observe the full field of view if you wear eyeglasses or sunglasses. Fully extend the eyecup for best viewing without glasses. |
Adjust the MagnificationVersatile zoom magnification allows you to view a wide field of view at a lower power and zoom in on details at a higher power. Change the magnification by turning the magnification adjustment ring: • Increase the magnification by turning the adjustment ring clockwise. • Decrease the magnification by turning the adjustment ring counter-clockwise. |
Adjust the FocusAfter setting the magnification you will want to refocus for the sharpest image. The Razor HD features two focus dials. This allows you to see critical details and ensures fatigue-free viewing: • Slowly turn the fast focus dial until the subject is nearly in focus. • Turn the fine focus dial to pick out the finest details. |
Product information
Technical Details
Additional Information
ASIN | B00BIKFHUE |
---|---|
Customer Reviews |
4.6 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #54,238 in Sports & Outdoors (See Top 100 in Sports & Outdoors) #13 in Spotting Scopes |
Date First Available | February 20, 2013 |
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Must watch. Vortex Optics Diamondback HD
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, image quality, value, portability, and ease of use of the telescope. They mention that it's a decent mid level scope, with great construction, and that the resolution is exceptional. They appreciate the relatively light weight and that it performs way above its price range. Customers are also satisfied with size, and versatility. However, some customers dislike the appearance.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the image quality of the telescope. They say it has a very clear image with exceptional resolution. Some customers are impressed with the quality of this spotting scope, saying that the glass is very clear. Overall, customers are satisfied with the optical quality of their purchase and recommend it to others.
"...Conquest HD 8x32, which I really like and find to have great image quality for the price. I find the Razor HD 11-33x50 to be a similar value...." Read more
"...The scope is lighter than my tripod at 25 oz, and it has Vortex Razor optical quality...." Read more
"It is easy to carry and wonderful image quality. Please to release the MRAD reticle eyepiece." Read more
"...I can already see a significant improvement in clarity of images over my Leupold 12x50 binos." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the telescope. They mention that it is an excellent scope, a decent mid-level scope for under $1000, and has great construction. Some say that the eye relief is too short. Overall, most are happy with their purchase and recommend it to others.
"...The bag is functional, nothing crazy. It fits the scope well, even with a tripod plate attached...." Read more
"...really concerned that this scope wouldn't measure up, but the quality of the build and the image are way better than I'd even hoped." Read more
"...New model is for sure better looking. And I feel like it's more rugged ( I say I "feel" because I haven't actually drop them to find out )..." Read more
"...Scope performance is superb for this price point and my only nits are with coarse focus wheel stiffness (fine focus wheel is silky smooth) and the..." Read more
Customers like the value of the telescope. They mention it has reasonable quality and value, and performs well above its price range. Some say the lifetime guarantee is a supreme value.
"...put their top quality optics in a smaller frame and at a more approachable price point. I expect to get many years of enjoyable use from this scope." Read more
"This is a great score for the money...." Read more
"Best price anywhere for what I consider the cat's meow in smaller spotting scopes...." Read more
"...'s also excellent for one-sixth the cost of this, but also a good, honest value. I'm keeping 'em both!" Read more
Customers find the telescope easy to carry and use. They say it has excellent focus adjustments and is relatively light weight. Customers also say it works well with lightweight packable tripods, making it great for backpacking. They mention that it can be used like a binocular, is easy to hold, and takes less room.
"...While the small size was very easy to carry, the image quality was not even close to the level of my binoculars...." Read more
"...you unpack the Razor 11-33x50 scope it looks tiny and it weights less than many books. Set it up and it's an optical powerhouse...." Read more
"...The slim shape of new model makes it easy to handle, pack, and I can grab it with one hand better since it has the focus wheel..." Read more
"...An unexpected benefit of its small size and weight is that it can easily be used without a tri-pod for distant viewing while on the move...." Read more
Customers like the size of the telescope. They mention that it's compact, light weight, and great for birding. Some say that the case is bulky and the scope doesn't fit well. Overall, most are happy with the size and weight of the product.
"...The bag is functional, nothing crazy. It fits the scope well, even with a tripod plate attached...." Read more
"...could be this good! When you unpack the Razor 11-33x50 scope it looks tiny and it weights less than many books...." Read more
"Great for birding! Great SMALL scope. Sooooo glad I bought it! Would buy again." Read more
"...I’m honestly quite impressed by this optic. It packs a lot of punch for its size and Vortex has a solid warranty that helps get over the sticker..." Read more
Customers find the telescope easy to use. They say it's easy to quickly get a rough focus and then carefully adjust for fine detail. They also say the shape of the new model makes it easy to handle, pack, and grab. Customers also say that the focus ring is smooth and very easy to focus exactly. The magnification adjustment is both smooth and positive throughout its range, and the fine focus wheel is silky smooth. This makes for effortless glassing. The zoom ring on the eye piece is smooth, and easy to operate. The dual focus is very useful, and its small size and lightweight are amazing.
"...It is easy to quickly get a rough focus, and then carefully adjust for fine detail...." Read more
"...The slim shape of new model makes it easy to handle, pack, and I can grab it with one hand better since it has the focus..." Read more
"...transmission is as expected from a 50mm objective, magnification adjustment is both smooth and positive throughout its range, and lens edge..." Read more
"...Dual focus is very useful.The small size and lightweight are amazing.So FIVE STARS for the scope...." Read more
Customers say the telescope is versatile and can be used for bird watching, hunting, and wilderness hunting. The powerful zoom makes it easy to see birds way across the water, even in the trees. It's also great for stationary setups for birding and the back country.
"Very nice for birds. It can also view Jupiter and it's moons and Saturn's rings...." Read more
"Great for birding! Great SMALL scope. Sooooo glad I bought it! Would buy again." Read more
"...This will be a great scope for hunting...." Read more
"...The zoom is very powerful, you can see birds way across the water, even in the trees...." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the appearance of the telescope. They mention that the image appears in very bad quality and is not designed well for focusing. They are also disappointed in the quality of the focus at maximum magnification, and the scope loses clearness as soon as you turn it above 20x.
"...I don't recall the specifics, but I returned it because the image quality was poor, very dark...." Read more
"This scope loses clearness as soon as you turn it above 20x...." Read more
"...Always ended up using the fine focus anyways. I also like the green color better. Looks a lot likely the Swarovski...." Read more
"...looks like a cover that could be used in the field but really is not designed well for that...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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*Current Binoculars and Past Scopes*
For reference, my binoculars are Zeiss Conquest HD 8x32, which I really like and find to have great image quality for the price. I find the Razor HD 11-33x50 to be a similar value. While I am sure both of these would not hold up to Leica or Swarovski optics, to me they hit a sweet spot of cost vs. image quality.
I tried two other scopes before this one, each one increasing in cost. The first was purchased a few years ago is no longer made (Alpen 15-45x60). I don't recall the specifics, but I returned it because the image quality was poor, very dark. It also seemed large at the time, and the build quality was average.
The second (Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED) was right before purchasing the Razor . At the time this was about half the cost of the Razor HD 11-33x50. While the small size was very easy to carry, the image quality was not even close to the level of my binoculars. While I could see the birds 'bigger'...the image was dark, esp. when looking into brush. And, the upper range of the magnification was not very clear. The build quality was mostly plastic, but acceptable at the price point. Overall, I did not find the image quality to be worth the cost or the hassle of carrying the scope and tripod.
- - - - - - - - -
*Razor HD 11-33x50 Review*
After much research, I decided to make the investment in the Razor HD 11-33x50. Most of the reviews were from a hunting perspective, and many mentioned that the image quality was about on par with larger scopes they had used...but in a much smaller package that was easier to hike/follow game with.
The cost of this scope is very close to the larger, lower-tier Viper. I spoke with a Vortex rep regarding the tradeoffs between size, image quality and cost. He strongly recommended the Razor.
*Image Quality*
I find the image quality of the Razor to be very similar to my Zeiss Conquest HD 8x32 binoculars. The picture is quite bright and sharp, you can easily see fine feather details. The image quality is pretty consistent across the entire image circle (esp. when compared to the quality drop-off toward the edges found in the Celestron Hummingbird).
*Focus*
As of 2019, the Razor HD 11-33x50 is still the older style of Vortex scope design with two protruding focus wheels (fast and fine) on the upper body. The newer style offered on the larger scopes is a single focus ring on the lower body (the Celestron Hummingbird has a similar design). While I cannot speak to the newer Razors, comparing the focus function of the 11-33x50 to the Hummingbird I prefer the separate fast and fine focus knobs. It is easy to quickly get a rough focus, and then carefully adjust for fine detail.
The Razor HD 11-33x50 also has a very close focus of 6.6 feet (from website). This lets you get a good look at birds on your feeder or insects perched close to you. (attached photo shot through the scope with handheld iPhone 6S, Ebony Jewelwing was about 7-8 feet away.)
*Zoom*
The zoom range on this scope is 11-33, which is not as close as other (larger) scopes. But as someone who uses this at closer distances I find the smaller size/weight to be more of an advantage.
*Scope Bag*
The bag is functional, nothing crazy. It fits the scope well, even with a tripod plate attached. It is not heavily padded, I would make sure that the scope when into some other bag/case to protect it if traveling/hunting.
*Warranty*
While I am very careful with my gear, the Vortex warranty is pretty hard to beat. From their site: "We will repair or replace your Vortex® product in the event it becomes damaged or defective—at no charge to you. If we cannot repair your product, we will replace it with a product in perfect working order of equal or better physical condition."
*You Need a Tripod*
To get the most of this scope invest in a sturdy tripod and good head. I am using this with a Manfrotto 190 tripod. I also have a 055 which is sturdier, but the 190 is a bit lighter/easier to carry and is plenty to keep the scope stable. While not traditional for scope use, I am using a Sirui K-40X Ball Head. I already owned it for photography, so I gave it a try. While a little harder to control than a 3-way head, it is also very quick to center and level out. This version has a single knob to set tension and lock the ball. I find that easier to use than separate tension and lock knobs.
*Things that could have been better*
Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase. There are only two fairly minor things that I can comment on. First, the eyecup is a fold up/down style rather than a twist up. Not a big deal, but as someone who wears glasses I am folding it down for each use (the eyepiece cover only fits when the eyecup is turned up). I expect that this will be a wear point, but, hey...lifetime, no-questions-asked warranty for the win!
Second, the loop for front optic cover does not stay on the front of the scope very well. It often comes off when removing the scope from the bag. Not a huge deal, but I usually leave it in the bag to prevent me from losing it. I have Vortex front covers on my Zeiss binoculars that have stayed put for years, so if the band were just a little bit smaller it would have worked better.
*Would I Buy Again?*
100%. I am very happy that Vortex put their top quality optics in a smaller frame and at a more approachable price point. I expect to get many years of enjoyable use from this scope.
Reviewed in the United States on June 20, 2019
- - - - - - - - -
*Current Binoculars and Past Scopes*
For reference, my binoculars are Zeiss Conquest HD 8x32, which I really like and find to have great image quality for the price. I find the Razor HD 11-33x50 to be a similar value. While I am sure both of these would not hold up to Leica or Swarovski optics, to me they hit a sweet spot of cost vs. image quality.
I tried two other scopes before this one, each one increasing in cost. The first was purchased a few years ago is no longer made (Alpen 15-45x60). I don't recall the specifics, but I returned it because the image quality was poor, very dark. It also seemed large at the time, and the build quality was average.
The second (Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED) was right before purchasing the Razor . At the time this was about half the cost of the Razor HD 11-33x50. While the small size was very easy to carry, the image quality was not even close to the level of my binoculars. While I could see the birds 'bigger'...the image was dark, esp. when looking into brush. And, the upper range of the magnification was not very clear. The build quality was mostly plastic, but acceptable at the price point. Overall, I did not find the image quality to be worth the cost or the hassle of carrying the scope and tripod.
- - - - - - - - -
*Razor HD 11-33x50 Review*
After much research, I decided to make the investment in the Razor HD 11-33x50. Most of the reviews were from a hunting perspective, and many mentioned that the image quality was about on par with larger scopes they had used...but in a much smaller package that was easier to hike/follow game with.
The cost of this scope is very close to the larger, lower-tier Viper. I spoke with a Vortex rep regarding the tradeoffs between size, image quality and cost. He strongly recommended the Razor.
*Image Quality*
I find the image quality of the Razor to be very similar to my Zeiss Conquest HD 8x32 binoculars. The picture is quite bright and sharp, you can easily see fine feather details. The image quality is pretty consistent across the entire image circle (esp. when compared to the quality drop-off toward the edges found in the Celestron Hummingbird).
*Focus*
As of 2019, the Razor HD 11-33x50 is still the older style of Vortex scope design with two protruding focus wheels (fast and fine) on the upper body. The newer style offered on the larger scopes is a single focus ring on the lower body (the Celestron Hummingbird has a similar design). While I cannot speak to the newer Razors, comparing the focus function of the 11-33x50 to the Hummingbird I prefer the separate fast and fine focus knobs. It is easy to quickly get a rough focus, and then carefully adjust for fine detail.
The Razor HD 11-33x50 also has a very close focus of 6.6 feet (from website). This lets you get a good look at birds on your feeder or insects perched close to you. (attached photo shot through the scope with handheld iPhone 6S, Ebony Jewelwing was about 7-8 feet away.)
*Zoom*
The zoom range on this scope is 11-33, which is not as close as other (larger) scopes. But as someone who uses this at closer distances I find the smaller size/weight to be more of an advantage.
*Scope Bag*
The bag is functional, nothing crazy. It fits the scope well, even with a tripod plate attached. It is not heavily padded, I would make sure that the scope when into some other bag/case to protect it if traveling/hunting.
*Warranty*
While I am very careful with my gear, the Vortex warranty is pretty hard to beat. From their site: "We will repair or replace your Vortex® product in the event it becomes damaged or defective—at no charge to you. If we cannot repair your product, we will replace it with a product in perfect working order of equal or better physical condition."
*You Need a Tripod*
To get the most of this scope invest in a sturdy tripod and good head. I am using this with a Manfrotto 190 tripod. I also have a 055 which is sturdier, but the 190 is a bit lighter/easier to carry and is plenty to keep the scope stable. While not traditional for scope use, I am using a Sirui K-40X Ball Head. I already owned it for photography, so I gave it a try. While a little harder to control than a 3-way head, it is also very quick to center and level out. This version has a single knob to set tension and lock the ball. I find that easier to use than separate tension and lock knobs.
*Things that could have been better*
Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase. There are only two fairly minor things that I can comment on. First, the eyecup is a fold up/down style rather than a twist up. Not a big deal, but as someone who wears glasses I am folding it down for each use (the eyepiece cover only fits when the eyecup is turned up). I expect that this will be a wear point, but, hey...lifetime, no-questions-asked warranty for the win!
Second, the loop for front optic cover does not stay on the front of the scope very well. It often comes off when removing the scope from the bag. Not a huge deal, but I usually leave it in the bag to prevent me from losing it. I have Vortex front covers on my Zeiss binoculars that have stayed put for years, so if the band were just a little bit smaller it would have worked better.
*Would I Buy Again?*
100%. I am very happy that Vortex put their top quality optics in a smaller frame and at a more approachable price point. I expect to get many years of enjoyable use from this scope.
I used to own the older model too. Sold it and got this one.
And here are my honest thoughts about the new model compare to the old model.
They are both sharp, amazing glass. I honestly can't see a difference in clarity between new model and old model.
New model is for sure better looking. And I feel like it's more rugged ( I say I "feel" because I haven't actually drop them to find out ) The slim shape of new model makes it easy to handle, pack, and I can grab it with one hand better since it has the focus wheel around the body. I didn't like the fact the old one had two focus wheels. Always ended up using the fine focus anyways. I also like the green color better. Looks a lot likely the Swarovski.
I was also able to use the same black cordura nylon fitted case they sale separately for the old model for 50$ On this new model. Since the case they give u with both are just crap, and don't want the body to get scratches.
I've used it for wildlife viewing have watch from elk at dawn, chipmunks, squirrels, eagles, hummingbirds etc, the details are amazing....The hood really works nicely when sun it's out and bright. (With both scopes, the experience was the same)
When i got the new model the eye cup was super loose. I don't wear glasses so really need the cup all the way up. So I sent it to vortex and they took care of it. And send it back to me within 2 weeks. I didn't even pay to send it. They sent me a prepaid label.
Bottom line. If u don't care about the color, the two wheels that take some extra room, the fact that the new one is made in japan and assemble in the US and old one made in China, and want to save like 400-500 bucks, buy the old model for sure!! You will see your game with the same clarity. They will also weight about the same so no big change.
Also I got a manfrotto aluminum tripod with a pistol grip head. I find the pistol grip to be the best. Takes less room and it's faster to move.
Top reviews from other countries
I returned mine.
I have its less expensive little brother, the Diamondback HD 20-60x85. In a direct comparison, aside from the colour fringing in the Diamondback (a blue tinge around things that are slightly out of focus), the Diamondback had better definition and contrast, and showed finer detail at all distances and magnifications than the Razor did. For example, the writing on a bag of gardening soil about 1000 feet away was easily discernable in the Diamondback, but was difficult to read in the Razor. Same results looking at a 20$ bill at 40 feet. As mentioned earlier, the Diamondback shows quite a bit of colour fringing on bright objects that are slightly out of focus while the Razor does not.
A Tele Vue 85 astronomical telescope showed better detail and contrast than both spotting scopes while looking at the same objects, but since it has fewer optical elements and also cost more than both scopes combined, it really isn’t a fair comparison.
Either I happen to have an excellent Diamondback, or the Razor I received was defective. I would be tempted to purchase another Razor to see how it compares, but I’ll just stick with the Diamondback for now.
Reviewed in Australia on March 25, 2023