CADRE Dispatch

Vortex Razor Gen III 4-24×44: CADRE NEWS

Cory Ross

For precision rifle shooters, whether they are dedicated competitors or casual shooters, Vortex has established a reputation for combining quality with affordability.

The Razor line from Vortex stands out as their premier performance series. Here, Vortex doesn’t compromise—they deliver their best craftsmanship. When examining podium finishes in the precision rifle shooting world, Vortex consistently ranks among the top brands. This popularity has driven continuous updates to the Razor HD line.

In January 2022, Vortex introduced the Razor HD 6-36×56, a powerful optic designed for serious shooters and competitors. It quickly earned praise from users. However, some felt that its magnification range and size weren’t ideal for all applications. To address this, Vortex has now added a new option to the Razor Gen III lineup—the 4-24×44.

Vortex Razor Gen III 4-24x44 with throw lever.
The Gen III 4-24×44 is the smaller and lighter sibling to the 6-36×56.

SPECS

The new 4-24 model poses impressive specs, especially for an optic at this tier. They are as follows.

  • Models: RZR-42402 (MRAD), RZR-4201 (MOA)
  • Reticle: EBR-7D
  • Illumination: Yes
  • Eye Relief: 3.3”
  • Field of View @ 100 yards: 30.9’ – 5.3’
  • Turrets: L-Tec+
  • Max Elevation Adjustment: 46 MRAD, 158 MOA
  • Max Windage Adjustment: 25 MRAD, 86 MOA
  • Parallax Settings: 15 yards- ∞
  • Length:  12.5”
  • Weight: 32.3 oz.
  • Tube Diameter: 34mm

The specs that stand out to me most include the 46 mills of vertical adjustment, the 15-yard parallax setting, and the 32.3-ounce weight. In comparison, the much larger 6-36×56 weighs 45.1 ounces, has only 36.1 millimeters of travel, but features a parallax setting of 10 yards.

As someone who has shot PRS matches, I’ve rarely gone above 20 magnification, and most of the time, I hover around the 16-18 magnification range, making the new 4-24 an excellent option for precision shooters.

Razor Gen III 1-10x24, 4-24x44, and 6-36x56 comparison.
From left to right: Razor Gen III 1-10×24, 4-24×44, and 6-36×56.

FEATURES

This new variant of the Razor Gen III line will be the most versatile model in the line. It’s suited for precision rifle work but is also fully capable on a hunting rifle or an AR platform. It retains all the features of its larger counterpart but reduces weight and length as mentioned above. The features are as follows:

  • CLASS LEADING HD OPTICAL SYSTEM: Stunning resolution and class-leading field of view combine to create our most advanced optical system.
  • FIRST FOCAL PLANE EBR-7D RETICLE: The Scale of the EBR-7D reticle remains in proportion to the zoomed image. Constant subtensions allow for accurate holdovers and ranging at all magnifications, while the EBR-7D reticle is useful for long-range shooting.
  • L-TEC+™ ZERO SYSTEM: The L-Tec+™ Zero System is easy to use with all captive parts and only one set screw, making zeroing quick and simple. Once set, it also allows for more travel.
  • COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT: A compact, rugged design that minimizes weight without sacrificing performance
Vortex Razor Gen III 4-24x44 what's in the box.
Everything that comes with the 4-24×44.

Zooming Out

I’ve been fortunate enough to spend quite a bit of time with this optic for an upcoming Guns & Ammo Precision Rifle Shooter article. I currently have the 6-36 model on a 6mm BR PRS rifle, and in comparison, the 4-24 is my preference for nearly any shooting scenario (beyond 100 yards). The turrets and L-Tec+ zero system are what distinguish the Gen III from any other optic I’ve used. The ability to adjust between mechanical clicks is crucial for establishing a true zero.  

The Razor Gen III is Vortex’s flagship tactical optic. As the top model, it comes with a price tag of $2799.99. High price for a premium optic. Fortunately, the Razor Gen III 4-24×44 is covered by the industry-leading VIP Warranty.

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