Finding the best vortex scope for coyote hunting requires understanding both the unique challenges of predator hunting and what makes Vortex optics stand out in a crowded market. Coyote hunting demands equipment that can perform in the most unforgiving conditions, from pre-dawn setups in freezing temperatures to midday stands under harsh sun, and those critical last-light opportunities when coyotes feel most comfortable moving.
Vortex Optics has earned its reputation among hunters and shooters through an unbeatable combination of performance, durability, and value. Founded in 2004 in Wisconsin, Vortex has quickly become one of the most trusted names in optics, backed by their unconditional VIP warranty that covers everything, forever, no matter what happens to your scope. This warranty isn’t just marketing speak; it’s a reflection of their confidence in their products and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Coyote hunting presents specific optical requirements that differ from other hunting applications. Unlike deer hunting where you might have predictable shooting lanes and ranges, coyote hunting is dynamic and unpredictable. You might be scanning vast prairie landscapes for movement at 400 yards one moment, then tracking a coyote charging toward your decoy at 75 yards the next. Your scope needs versatile magnification, rapid target acquisition, and enough light gathering capability for dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
The typical coyote hunting rifle is chambered in anything from .223 Remington to .243 Winchester, with many hunters favoring the flat-shooting 6.5 Creedmoor or .22-250 for their extended effective range. These calibers produce manageable recoil but still require scopes with reliable tracking and repeatable adjustments for making precise shots at varied distances. Coyotes are notoriously difficult to pattern, and when you finally call one in, you get one chance. Your optic needs to perform flawlessly when that moment arrives.
Environmental factors also play a huge role. Coyote hunters spend hours in extreme weather, from bitter cold winter mornings to hot summer evenings. Your scope must handle temperature swings, maintain waterproof integrity, and resist fogging when you transition from your warm truck to freezing outdoor conditions. Vortex builds their scopes to handle these challenges while delivering optical clarity that helps you spot subtle movement in varied terrain and lighting conditions.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP | First focal plane, EBR-2C reticle, exposed turrets, 6x zoom ratio | Link |
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Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm | Dead-Hold BDC reticle, XR coatings, lightweight, 4x zoom | Link |
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Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO | V-Plex reticle, adjustable objective, budget-friendly, reliable | Link |
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Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm | AR-BDC3 reticle, glass-etched illuminated, wide magnification range | Link |
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Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP | FFP EBR-2C reticle, XD glass elements, precision turrets, premium | Link |
After years of calling coyotes across different terrain and countless hours behind Vortex optics, these five scopes consistently deliver the performance, reliability, and features that coyote hunters need. Each brings unique strengths to different hunting styles, from spot-and-stalk prairie hunting to calling in dense timber. Whether you’re a beginner building your first predator rifle or an experienced hunter upgrading your setup, one of these Vortex scopes will match your needs and budget while providing the optical performance to make those critical shots count.
1) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP (Best Vortex Scope for Coyote Hunting Long Range)
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP represents the sweet spot between affordability and serious tactical features that long-range coyote hunters demand. This scope has become incredibly popular among predator hunters who work open country where shots regularly stretch beyond 300 yards. The first focal plane design is what sets the Diamondback Tactical apart from standard hunting scopes in this price range, providing reticle measurements that remain accurate regardless of your magnification setting.
What makes this scope particularly effective for coyote hunting is its 4-16x magnification range. At 4x, you have enough field of view to scan prairie landscapes and locate movement, while 16x provides the precision needed for confident shots out to 500 yards and beyond with the right rifle and load combination. The 6:1 zoom ratio gives you flexibility to adapt to whatever scenario the coyotes present, from close response to your calls to distant shots across agricultural fields or pastures.
The EBR-2C MRAD reticle is a game-changer for precision shooting. While it looks busy at first glance, the Christmas-tree style hash marks in the lower section provide fast wind holds and elevation adjustments without ever touching your turrets. For coyote hunting, this means you can range a coyote, determine your wind call, and make an accurate holdover shot in seconds rather than fumbling with turret adjustments while your target moves. The illuminated center section adds visibility in low light, though the reticle remains usable without illumination.
Glass quality in the Diamondback Tactical punches well above its price point. Vortex uses fully multi-coated lenses that deliver clear, bright images even in challenging dawn and dusk lighting when coyotes are most active. The 44mm objective provides solid light gathering without making the scope too large or heavy. I’ve used this scope in temperatures from single digits to over 90 degrees, and it’s never fogged internally or lost zero. The exposed tactical turrets offer precise 0.1 MRAD adjustments with positive clicks, and they track reliably for dialing elevation on longer shots.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-16x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Focal Plane | First (FFP) |
| Reticle | EBR-2C MRAD Illuminated |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Turret Adjustment | 0.1 MRAD |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 21.5 oz |
Pros
- First focal plane design keeps reticle accurate at any magnification for precise holdovers
- EBR-2C reticle provides fast wind and elevation holds without dialing turrets
- Exposed tactical turrets with 0.1 MRAD clicks track reliably for long-range precision
- 4-16x magnification range covers everything from scanning to precision shooting
- Outstanding value with tactical features typically found on much more expensive scopes
Cons
- FFP reticle becomes quite small at lower magnifications in dim light conditions
For the coyote hunter who regularly engages predators at extended ranges across open terrain, the Diamondback Tactical delivers professional-level features at a price that won’t break the bank. The combination of first focal plane design, tactical reticle, and reliable turrets gives you every tool needed to make precise shots when coyotes present themselves at distance. This scope turns your predator rifle into a legitimate long-range system capable of consistently connecting at ranges that would be questionable with lesser optics.
Check Price on Amazon2) Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm (Best Vortex Scope for Coyote Hunting All-Around Use)
The Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm is the quintessential all-around coyote hunting scope that excels in the widest variety of hunting situations. The HS stands for “Hunter Series,” and Vortex designed this scope specifically for hunters who need versatility, reliability, and exceptional optical performance without unnecessary bulk or complexity. After using the Viper HS across diverse coyote hunting scenarios from thick Eastern timber to Western sagebrush, I’m convinced it’s the most practical choice for hunters who do it all.
The 2.5-10x magnification range is absolutely perfect for coyote hunting’s unpredictable nature. At 2.5x, you have a wide enough field of view to track a coyote running through cover or responding to your calls at close range, giving you the situational awareness to make quick shots inside 100 yards. Dial it up to 10x, and you have plenty of magnification for precise shots out to 400 yards, which covers the vast majority of realistic coyote hunting scenarios. This 4:1 zoom ratio provides all the versatility you need without the weight and complexity of higher magnification scopes.
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is brilliantly simple and incredibly effective. Unlike complex mil-dot or MOA reticles that require calculations, the Dead-Hold provides intuitive aiming points calibrated for typical hunting cartridges. The hash marks correspond to 100-yard increments, so once you zero at 100 yards and verify your drop, you simply hold the appropriate hash mark on your target. For coyote hunting where you need to shoot quickly, this system is far faster than dialing elevation. The reticle is in the second focal plane, which means it maintains a consistent size across the magnification range, making it easy to use at any power.
What really impresses me about the Viper HS is the optical quality. Vortex equipped this scope with XR fully multi-coated lenses that provide outstanding light transmission and clarity. The extra-low dispersion glass virtually eliminates chromatic aberration, giving you sharp, color-accurate images. The 44mm objective gathers plenty of light for early morning and late evening hunting, and the lenses maintain their clarity in harsh weather conditions. At 15.3 ounces, it’s remarkably lightweight for a 44mm scope, which matters when you’re carrying your rifle for hours calling stands.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5-10x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Focal Plane | Second (SFP) |
| Reticle | Dead-Hold BDC |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Turret Adjustment | 1/4 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 3.8 inches |
| Weight | 15.3 oz |
Pros
- Perfect 2.5-10x magnification range covers all realistic coyote hunting distances
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle provides fast, intuitive holdovers without calculations
- XR lens coatings deliver exceptional clarity and light transmission
- Lightweight 15.3-ounce design reduces fatigue during long calling sessions
- Second focal plane keeps reticle consistently sized for quick target acquisition
Cons
- BDC reticle requires verification with your specific load for maximum accuracy
The Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm is the scope I recommend most often to coyote hunters because it simply works in every situation you’ll encounter. Whether you’re calling timber, working field edges, or hunting open country, this scope provides the optical quality and magnification versatility to make the shot. The lightweight design won’t wear you down during all-day hunts, and the Dead-Hold BDC reticle takes the guesswork out of holdovers. It’s not the flashiest scope, but it’s the one that consistently delivers when coyotes appear.
Check Price on Amazon3) Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO (Best Budget Vortex Scope for Coyote Hunting)
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a reliable, capable scope for coyote hunting. As Vortex’s entry-level line, the Crossfire II delivers surprising performance at a price point that makes it accessible for hunters building their first predator rifle or those who want a solid backup scope. Despite its budget-friendly price, this scope still carries Vortex’s unconditional VIP warranty, which means you’re protected no matter what happens.
The 4-12x magnification range hits the sweet spot for most coyote hunting applications. Starting at 4x gives you adequate field of view for scanning and tracking moving coyotes, while 12x provides enough magnification for accurate shots out to 350 yards with proper rifle and ammunition combinations. The 3:1 zoom ratio keeps things simple and straightforward. For hunters who primarily work moderate ranges, this magnification spread covers everything you need without the complexity or weight of higher-powered scopes.
The V-Plex reticle is as simple and effective as it gets. This traditional duplex design features thick outer posts that draw your eye to the center and thin crosshairs in the middle for precise aiming. There’s no learning curve, no calculations, and no distractions. You simply put the crosshairs on the coyote and press the trigger. While it lacks the holdover features of more advanced reticles, many hunters prefer this simplicity, especially for shots inside 300 yards where you can hold center mass or just slightly high.
One feature that sets this Crossfire II apart from basic hunting scopes is the adjustable objective (AO) for parallax correction. The side-mounted parallax dial adjusts from 10 yards to infinity, allowing you to eliminate parallax error at any distance. This matters for coyote hunting because you might be shooting anywhere from 50 to 400 yards, and parallax can affect point of impact more than most hunters realize. The 44mm objective provides solid light gathering for dawn and dusk hunting, and the fully multi-coated lenses deliver clear images considering the price point.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-12x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Focal Plane | Second (SFP) |
| Reticle | V-Plex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Turret Adjustment | 1/4 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 3.1-4 inches |
| Weight | 15.8 oz |
Pros
- Budget-friendly price makes quality optics accessible without sacrificing reliability
- Adjustable objective allows parallax correction across full range of hunting distances
- Simple V-Plex reticle provides straightforward aiming without complexity
- Backed by Vortex VIP warranty despite being an entry-level scope
- 44mm objective gathers adequate light for dawn and dusk hunting sessions
Cons
- Basic reticle lacks holdover reference points for longer range shots
For budget-conscious hunters or those new to coyote hunting, the Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO offers legitimate performance without the premium price tag. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable, clear, and backed by the same warranty as Vortex’s top-tier scopes. This is the scope that gets the job done without drawing attention to itself, allowing you to focus on calling strategies and wind reading rather than fiddling with complex reticle systems or turret adjustments. Sometimes simple is exactly what you need.
Check Price on Amazon4) Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm (Best Vortex Scope for Coyote Hunting Versatility)
The Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm offers the widest magnification range in this lineup, making it ideal for hunters who need maximum versatility across diverse hunting environments and ranges. The 6:1 zoom ratio from 3x to 18x covers everything from close-range calling situations to extreme-distance shots across open terrain. If your coyote hunting takes you from tight hardwood bottoms to expansive Western landscapes, the Strike Eagle’s magnification flexibility ensures you’re never compromising on either end.
What makes the Strike Eagle particularly appealing is its glass-etched illuminated reticle at a mid-range price point. The AR-BDC3 reticle is designed specifically for modern sporting rifles and flat-shooting cartridges that dominate coyote hunting, including .223 Remington, .22-250, and 6.5 Creedmoor. The reticle features holdover marks calibrated in 5 MOA increments, with wind dots for quick windage adjustments. The illumination offers ten brightness levels, providing excellent visibility in low light without washing out the reticle in brighter conditions.
The 3x low-end magnification is where this scope really shines for close-range work. When a coyote comes charging to your distress call at 50 yards, you need a wide field of view and fast target acquisition. The Strike Eagle delivers that capability while still providing the 18x top-end for glassing distant terrain and making precise shots at extended range. This makes it particularly valuable for hunters who use electronic callers and decoys that sometimes bring coyotes in close, but also shoot across bean fields or pastures where predators might hang up at 400 yards.
Build quality is solid with the Strike Eagle’s 30mm tube construction and fully multi-coated lenses. The scope handles recoil reliably and maintains zero even with hard-kicking calibers, though most coyote cartridges are relatively mild. The side parallax adjustment ranges from 10 yards to infinity, critical when you’re working with the higher magnifications. At 21.2 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than some hunting scopes but not unreasonably so. The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustment, and the 3.5-inch eye relief is consistent across the magnification range.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-18x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Focal Plane | Second (SFP) |
| Reticle | AR-BDC3 Illuminated |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Turret Adjustment | 1/4 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 21.2 oz |
Pros
- Widest 6:1 magnification range from 3x to 18x covers all coyote hunting scenarios
- Glass-etched illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle designed for flat-shooting hunting cartridges
- 3x low end provides adequate field of view for close-range calling situations
- 18x top end allows precision shooting and glassing at extended distances
- Ten illumination brightness levels adapt to any lighting condition
Cons
- Slightly heavier at 21.2 ounces compared to simpler hunting scopes
The Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm is perfect for the coyote hunter who refuses to compromise. Whether you’re working field edges at dawn where coyotes might appear at any distance, or setting up on a ridge to glass canyons and draws, this scope provides the magnification flexibility to handle whatever unfolds. The illuminated BDC reticle adds functionality in low light, and the overall feature set delivers tremendous value for hunters who demand versatility without stepping up to premium-priced optics.
Check Price on Amazon5) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP (Best Premium Vortex Scope for Coyote Hunting)
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP represents the pinnacle of Vortex’s hunting scope lineup, offering professional-grade features and optical performance that serious long-range coyote hunters demand. While it’s overkill for many hunting situations, if you regularly engage coyotes beyond 400 yards or want the absolute best glass and features Vortex offers, the PST Gen II delivers performance that competes with scopes costing significantly more.
The first focal plane EBR-2C MRAD reticle provides the same tactical advantages as the Diamondback Tactical but with notably superior glass quality. The extra-low dispersion XD glass elements and XR Plus fully multi-coated lenses produce an image that’s simply stunning in terms of clarity, color accuracy, and contrast. When you’re glassing distant hillsides for movement or trying to distinguish a coyote from rocks and brush at 500 yards, this level of optical performance makes a tangible difference. The 50mm objective maximizes light gathering for those critical first and last minutes of shooting light.
The 5-25x magnification range is admittedly more than most coyote hunting situations require, but it provides incredible flexibility. The 5x low end works for closer shots and tracking moving coyotes, while the 25x top end transforms this scope into a spotting tool. You can glass terrain at high magnification to locate distant coyotes, then dial back for the shot. For hunters who also compete in precision rifle matches or hunt other game at extreme ranges, this magnification versatility means one scope can handle multiple roles.
The exposed tactical turrets are where the PST Gen II really separates itself from hunting-focused scopes. These turrets offer precise, repeatable 0.1 MRAD adjustments with positive clicks you can both hear and feel. The turrets feature zero stops and can be reset to zero after sighting in. For long-range coyote hunters who dial elevation rather than holding over, these turrets track reliably and return to zero consistently. The L-Tec turret design is tool-less and intuitive, making adjustments in the field straightforward even with gloves on.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Focal Plane | First (FFP) |
| Reticle | EBR-2C MRAD Illuminated |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Turret Adjustment | 0.1 MRAD |
| Eye Relief | 3.7 inches |
| Weight | 28.8 oz |
Pros
- Premium XD glass elements deliver exceptional clarity and low-light performance
- First focal plane design keeps reticle accurate for holdovers at any magnification
- Exposed tactical turrets with zero stops track reliably for dialing elevation
- 50mm objective maximizes light transmission for extended shooting hours
- 5-25x magnification range handles everything from close shots to extreme distances
Cons
- Premium price point and heavier weight make it excessive for basic coyote hunting
The Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP is the scope for serious long-range predator hunters who want the best Vortex offers. If you regularly shoot coyotes beyond 400 yards, hunt open Western country where long shots are the norm, or simply demand premium optical performance, this scope delivers. The combination of stunning glass quality, first focal plane design, and professional-grade turrets provides every feature needed to make the most difficult shots with confidence. It’s an investment, but one that transforms your coyote rifle into a precision instrument.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the best Vortex scope for coyote hunting comes down to understanding your primary hunting scenarios and what features matter most for your success. Vortex has built a comprehensive lineup that covers every price point and hunting style, all backed by their industry-leading unconditional VIP warranty that protects your investment no matter what happens in the field.
For long-range specialists who regularly engage coyotes across open terrain, the Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP delivers first focal plane precision at an accessible price point, while the premium Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP provides professional-grade performance with stunning optical clarity for extreme distances. The all-around versatility of the Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm makes it my top recommendation for hunters who encounter varied terrain and distances, offering the perfect balance of magnification range, weight, and optical quality for most coyote hunting situations.
Budget-conscious hunters will find the Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO delivers solid reliability and performance without breaking the bank, while the Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm provides maximum magnification versatility and an illuminated BDC reticle for hunters who demand flexibility. Each of these scopes brings distinct advantages, but they all share Vortex’s commitment to quality construction, reliable performance in harsh conditions, and optical clarity that helps you spot and engage coyotes effectively.
Coyote hunting requires equipment that performs when it matters most, during those brief opportunities when a predator finally commits to your call or appears at distance. The unpredictable nature of predator hunting, combined with often challenging lighting and weather conditions, demands optics you can trust absolutely. Vortex has earned its reputation by consistently delivering scopes that handle these challenges while remaining accessible to hunters at various budget levels.
Your choice ultimately depends on your typical engagement distances, hunting environment, and budget. Consider whether you primarily hunt open prairie where long shots dominate, or mixed terrain where versatility matters most. Think about whether you prefer the simplicity of a BDC reticle or the precision of tactical holdovers. Match your scope selection to your hunting reality, and you’ll have the optical advantage needed to consistently connect when coyotes present themselves. Regardless of which Vortex scope you choose, you’re getting reliable performance backed by a warranty that demonstrates the company’s confidence in their products and commitment to your success in the field.
See Also: 5 Best Vortex Scopes for Slug Gun
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me