In 2023, Vortex Optics acquired Texas-based GeoBallistics, a provider of ballistic mobile app software. The acquisition appeared quiet, but Vortex had been secretly working on a new project. Since then, they have been developing devices that leverage this software to deliver shooters and hunters fast, simple, and precise ballistic data. The flagship of this initiative is the all-new Ace Ballistic Weather Meter.
SPECS
The ACE focuses on solving real problems in the field or on the firing line. It was built and shaped by field experience, missed calls, and tough lessons from testing limits and expecting more from your equipment. The ACE provides real-time weather readings and ballistic solutions at your fingertips.
The standard specs are as follows:
- Model(s): ACE
- Function: Ballistic Weather Meter
- Display: LCD
- Display Size: 2”
- Width: 2.4”
- Length: 5.4”
- Weight: 5.7 Ounces
- MSRP: $899.99 ($599.99 street price)
FEATURES
At its core, ACE is built to gather real-world environmental data and quickly turn it into useful information. The removable wind reader is a smart feature that allows you to customize the setup to your needs or add accessories without cluttering your kit. Built-in sensors measure wind speed, compass heading, and exposed temperature, pressure, and humidity, providing accurate data directly from your environment.
Where ACE truly excels is in converting data into action. The GeoBallistics solver offers reliable ballistic solutions, while the wind screen displays an intuitive “wind clock” that visualizes direction and helps you make quick adjustments. Wind-truing tools enable you to fine-tune your solution as conditions change, and everything updates in real time—no guesswork, no lag. With storage for up to 10 customizable profiles, switching between rifles, loads, or mission sets is seamless.
Integration is another strong point. ACE seamlessly works with Vortex’s Relay ecosystem and connects to the GeoBallistics app on your phone, providing access to a large bullet library and an easy-to-use interface. Turning it on is straightforward—press the menu button to power it on, and hold to turn it off. It comes ready to use with a lanyard, batteries, a manual, and a pouch, making ACE a compact, reliable tool for shooters who want their data clean, connected, and dependable.
WHAT IS VORTEX RELAY?
Vortex Relay is a closed network that recognizes and remembers every enabled device in your long-range toolkit. Once set up, Vortex Relay reliably connects each device every time, ensuring seamless, hassle-free integration.
This means, for example, your rangefinder and weather meter communicate smoothly on the same network, providing you with a precise, instant ballistic solution. Currently, the ACE, TALON HD 10K, Impact 4000 Ballistic Rail-Mounted Laser Rangefinder, and the GeoBallistic app feature Vortex Relay connectivity.
ZOOMING OUT
The ACE is a valuable addition to the Vortex product lineup and provides a practical, real-world use. Surprisingly, this market has little competition. In fact, the only other handheld ballistic calculator and weather meter available is from Applied Ballistics. But that’s a tough act to follow. Kestrel is the leader. Will the Ace overtake it? Only time and market acceptance will tell. The fact that Vortex is releasing a variety of products that work within the Relay ecosystem shows their commitment.
The Vortex ACE, like all other Vortex products, is backed by the Vortex VIP Warranty, never leaving you in doubt
