Vortex Viper Red Dot - DISCONTINUED

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Ratings Snapshot

4.8

out of 5

5 (15)

4 (4)

3 (0)

2 (0)

1 (0)

Would recommend this product.

100%

SKU: 115-V-VRD-6
UPC: 875874006027
Manufacturer: Vortex Optics
MFG#: VRD-6

I've had the chance to explore the Venom red dot sight and I'm impressed by its quick target acquisition, broad field of view, and lightweight nature, all packaged neatly. It offers a 3 MOA dot which is great for precision and rapid close-quarter engagements. They also have a 6 MOA option tailored for pistols. Comparing it to other competitors, there's a wide spectrum from budget-friendly to high-end alternatives. For instance, the Viper comes with a long-lasting hidden battery, whereas the RMR sits on the premium end, featuring a 1 MOA dot which is best suited for rifles and mid-ranges. Venom also offers larger dots which can be a plus for many. A few specifics worth noting about the Venom: it offers both auto and manual illumination modes. This means it can adjust according to light conditions, guaranteeing an adequately bright dot even on sunny days. Parallax is virtually non-existent, even at closer ranges, and the infinite eye relief gives you freedom in terms of mounting. If you're mainly shooting swiftly and at short distances, a 1x red dot sight like this could be ideal, especially since it's supported by a reputable manufacturer and comes with a lifetime warranty. However, a potential downside of this open sight is that dust, debris, and even rain might obstruct the lens and laser. If you're considering mounting it on a rifle, the spark AR, being a closed sight, could be a viable alternative due to its protection against such elements. But for pistols, the compact and open reflex style of the Venom is quite appealing.

I recently delved into the world of Red Dot pistols, and I found the Venom from Vortex to be a top-notch choice, especially for those who are new or looking for an affordable option. It's lightweight, compact, and super rugged. Despite its small size, measuring only 1.9 inches in length, its window does an excellent job of displaying the dot clearly. When I'm shooting with both eyes open, its thin frame practically disappears. The Venom fits various mounts, given its Dr. Optics mounting pattern. It comes with a standard 1913 pic rail mount, and for those using a Glock MOS, it includes two six mil screws. I personally used a rear sight dovetail mount from Dueck Defense, which meant I didn't have to modify the slide. You get two dot size options with the Venom: 3 MOA or 6 MOA. I realized the right choice depends on your intended shooting distance. The 3 MOA is apt for longer engagements since it obscures less of the target, while the 6 MOA dot is vivid and ideal for close-range situations. While Vortex claims the Venom is parallax-free, there's a slight shift if the dot isn't centered. But honestly, unless you're in a precision shooting competition, this won't matter much. There's some external parallax due to the sight's mounting height, but this only affects your shot by an inch or two depending on the range. The unlimited eye relief is a real winner, allowing flexible mounting positions. The Venom offers 100 MOA windage and 130 MOA elevation adjustments, although the clicks can be a bit soft. The lenses are scratch-resistant, and the clarity is excellent. It has 10 brightness settings, and while it lacks a motion-activated feature, it has an auto mode that adjusts the brightness. However, in auto mode, it turns off after 14 hours, so be sure to remember to activate it if it's on your carry pistol. Battery life? In its brightest setting, you get 150 hours, but at the lowest, it can last up to 3,000 hours. Swapping out the battery is also hassle-free. I did encounter a slight hiccup with the Venom becoming loose on my Glock 26, but after some adjustments and a change of screws, it was good to go. If you're considering a Red Dot reflex sight, especially as a beginner, the Venom is a solid pick. I prefer it over the Viper model. It handled the recoil of both my 9mm and 223 without issues, and I'm confident it could handle heavier calibers. Plus, with Vortex's lifetime VIP warranty, it's a risk-free investment.

I've put about 650 rounds through guns with the Viper mounted and so far, it's been outstanding. A couple of key points about the Viper: it has a 14-hour auto shutoff, a 30,000-hour battery life on low settings, and boasts a 6 MOA red dot in the center. Although my camera struggles to focus on the dot, in reality, it's crisp and ideal for fast shots, transitions, and defense drills. The Viper comes with a Picatinny rail base, but note: the provided screws fit only this base. If mounting on a Glock MOS, you'll need additional screws from Vortex. Another model I tried the Viper on is the CZ Scorpion, where it excelled. For sighting, there are up-and-down adjustments on top and side-to-side ones on its side. I initially didn't use the lock screws but later found them necessary, especially for pistols with suppressor height sights. However, the lock screws were a minor issue. Throughout testing, the Viper held its own against recoil and the elements. What I genuinely appreciate about the Viper, compared to others like the Venom, is its low profile on a Glock. For defense purposes, even if the red dot isn’t on, the iron sights are clearly visible, ensuring reliable aiming. My bias is clear: I'm a big fan of Vortex. I purchased the Viper with my own money, and I believe it offers great value. While some red dots can go up to $600, the Viper is around $220, backed by Vortex's comprehensive warranty. In the package, you get all mounting hardware, a manual, cleaning cloth, and a protective cover for the dot. I found this cover especially useful during cleaning to shield the optic. In conclusion, the Vortex Viper is a solid investment for those looking at pistol red dots.

The Viper Red Dot is wonderfully packaged, typical of Vortex. They generously provide a Picatinny mount, a protection cover, cleaning cloth, battery, and essential tools, ensuring you have everything you need. Every item in the box screams quality; the sight feels light yet sturdy, and even the rubber cover is stamped with the Viper and Vortex brand names. Though it's primarily marketed as a pistol sight, its versatile design allows mounting on shotguns or ARs. When off its mount, the battery is exposed, but once it's set up, the battery fits snugly. The protective cover is a fantastic addition, shielding the sight from dents and scratches when stored. Feature-wise, the sight is intuitive with a brightness selector, windage and elevation adjustments. On its maximum setting, the battery lasts 150 hours, while on its lowest setting, it boasts an impressive 30,000 hours. Plus, there's a 14-hour auto shut-down feature, ensuring your battery lasts. The 6 MOA dot is crisp, perfect for fast target acquisitions. Now, to give you a quick size comparison, the sight is almost as tiny as a standard 12-gauge cartridge. Its lightweight design means you can carry it effortlessly. The finish is classic Vortex—matte black, anti-glare, and sun-coated. To sum it up, the Vortex Optics Viper Red Dot is a must-have, especially for three-gun shooting, suitable for pistols, shotguns, and ARs.

I recently had the chance to review the Vortex Viper red dot sight, an optic that many of you have eagerly been waiting for my thoughts on. After waiting for its battery to die (to gauge its longevity), I decided to share my thoughts. The Vortex Viper is gaining significant popularity online, even among professional shooters like Sow Guns. He switched from the Trijicon RMR to the Vortex Viper. This red dot comes at a very affordable price point of around $200, and its performance is commendable. The Vortex Viper is a 6 MOA dot, which means the dot covers roughly 6 inches of a target at 100 yards. The packaging is straightforward and contains all the necessary tools for installation. The red dot itself has endured everyday carry wear and tear from my side, especially with my belt buckle rubbing against it, which gave it a unique "battle-worn" look. The control buttons jut out a bit, but that didn't bother me much. The battery life, as per Vortex's site, ranges from 150 hours at the brightest setting to 30,000 hours at the dimmest. From my use, the battery lasted roughly 7,500 hours, with me using it about 10 hours daily at about three-quarters brightness. While the battery life isn't as long-lasting as the Trijicon RMR, the Vortex Viper's affordable price makes up for it. However, the Viper is not without its shortcomings. The flat front of the Viper compared to the slightly curved one of the Trijicon RMR means it might interfere slightly with certain pistol designs, especially when milling the slide to fit the sight. This, though, wasn't a major concern for me. In terms of performance, I've found the red dot to be precise. The dot remains clear and crisp, even at distances of 75 yards. In typical defensive ranges, the accuracy is impeccable. The lens doesn't have a color tint like some competitors, providing a clear, unaltered view. Lastly, the Vortex comes with a lifetime warranty, and I haven't faced any significant issues with it. If you're in the market for a red dot sight without wanting to break the bank, the Vortex Viper might just be the one for you. While it has a couple of minor drawbacks, its benefits far outweigh them. In my books, it's a solid 9/10.

The Viper Red Dot comes nicely packaged and includes a battery, which is a nice touch. Being more familiar with scopes, I was taken aback when I removed it from the package and saw it didn't have a bottom. This is because the battery chamber is open until installed to keep the device low-profile and lightweight. Although it seemed odd to me, there is a rubber seal around the battery compartment to protect it from moisture and dust. I installed it on my .22 and went to the range. There are two lock screws for adjustments (don't forget these), which were a bit difficult for my old eyes and fingers, but this is a minor issue. The adjustments were fine and easy, and once I locked the two screws, it kept its point of aim. The red dot is a little fuzzy to my eyes, but not excessively blurred. It held zero after 300 rounds (22). Overall, it seems to be a good value for the money.

This review is about manufacturing issues. Firstly, the battery holder is not sturdy enough to secure the battery during installation. Secondly, the screws supplied for mounting the unit do not come with a torque key for the small torque screws. However, a flat head key and a torque key are included in the factory box, along with a protective cover. Keep in mind that if you need to use the small torque screws, the supplied torque key will not fit. Overall, this is a great unit for the price. I have a TRIJICON RMR Type 2 for another pistol and it did not come with as many extras as this Vortex unit, which is half the price and highly impressive.

I was in search of a reliable red dot pistol reflex sight that could be mounted without sending off the gun's slide for milling. After considering several options, I found the Vortex Viper Red Dot Sight to be a great choice. With its 6 MOA dot, it is quick and easy to acquire, and its rugged single-piece chassis and fully multi-coated lenses make it durable and reliable. The Viper comes with a Picatinny mount, but I opted for the Dueck Defense RBU Mounting System, which allowed me to mount it to my Glock or M&P pistol using the existing rear sight dovetail. The RBU also features suppressor height sights for co-witnessing, and it's made of steel, making it superior to the plastic sights I replaced. This solution was much better than slide milling, as I can easily transfer the Viper to another handgun and haven't made permanent modifications to my pistol. The Viper is simple to zero, has a parallax-free aiming window, and a long battery life. It takes some practice to get used to using the red dot, but it has improved my shooting and helped identify issues that I needed to work on.

This is precisely what I wanted. I mounted my AR on an angle mount to transition from the scope for closer shots. Small enough to not be too heavy or protrude too far. It fits in my case still with no issues. Plus, when I get my pistol with scope mounts, I'll be ready! (or get another one)

First purchased the vortex viper red dot for Glock 41, which added 10 yards to effective range and significantly tightened pattern — bought the second one for Glock 40. Mounted sight and went to bore sight, windage screw would turn but no adjustment. E-mailed Vortex, and got a quick response from Graham with a return label. One week later, it's back on the range. I own several optics from Vortex; they produce some of the best glass I've ever put my eye behind. And their service department is super, fast, friendly and efficient.

I installed my viper red dot on a MarkIV Ruger, and my eyes have thanked me ever since. Super EZ to mount and sight in.I have been impressed with the way it has stayed put and remained sighted in.I really like this technology that replaces iron sights and aids in old eyes

Awesome sight. I own the VVortex Venom red dot also and I like the vortex viper better, cleaner lines no exposed screws for the mount. I mounted this on a Volquartsen Scorpion .22 pistol and it was dead on at 50 yrds right out of the box, I was shocked. able to hit 2" steels at 50 yards with zero adjustments made from the factory settings. AWESOME SIGHT. Bright dot easier buttons than the Venom.