Telescope Reviews: Opinions - Vortex Viper vs. Razor

Viper vs. Razor? It sounds like a monster movie title.

Hi, gang. I could use some of your opinions. I've alluded to this in another thread, but I didn't want to hijack it. So I thought that I'd just start a new one and ask...

I'm looking to upgrade my Celestron Outland LX 10x50 porros. I wanted something easy to hand hold for scanning the sky and locating objects, but I take the binocs out daily as I walk the dog just to take a look at nature. I also wanted something rugged, waterproof, and a decent field of view. Oh, and an upgrade in optics would be nice.

I've read a number of reviews, and like what I've heard of the Vortex line. They get good marks for about every category and their warranty is nice. I was pretty much convinced to try the 8x42 Vipers. I also liked what I saw about the 8x42 Razor (especially the 410ft field of view), but at 50% more money, I just thought that I'd live with the Viper choice. The $500 price point is most attractive to me. But I still have that doubt as to which to choose.

So, can anyone tell me the optical difference between the Viper and the Razor? I've seen rave reviews of the Viper, good ones of the Razor, but NOTHING that compares the lines. And the nearest shop that sells Vortex bins is about 2 hours from here (Eagle Optics in Madison, WI).

You folks seem to have a handle on a wide range of equipment, so I'd be interested to hear if anyone has tried them both.

Thanks,

Chris

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Televue TV85 APO
Vortex Razor 8x42

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