Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope Review

Let’s Dive into Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope

The Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope promises a blend of high magnification and optical clarity, aiming to satisfy both seasoned shooters and those aspiring to improve their long-range game. Manufactured by Vanguard, this scope boasts a 30mm tube, HOYA ED glass, and an illuminated reticle, packaged in a robust design that claims to withstand the rigors of the field.

My search for a versatile optic that could bridge the gap between varmint hunting and occasional target shooting led me to this scope. I needed something with enough magnification to reach out to longer distances, but with sufficient light gathering for those crucial dawn and dusk hours.

Unboxing the Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope revealed a scope that felt solid and well-constructed. The matte black finish gave it a professional look, and the included flip-up caps and neoprene cover were welcome additions.

I had been considering the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 and the Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×50, but ultimately chose the Vanguard due to its appealing combination of features and price point. The promise of Vanguard’s “Industry Leading Warranty” also played a significant role in my decision.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. While the scope certainly looked the part, the true test would be its performance in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope on my Tikka T3x chambered in .223 and headed to my local shooting range. The initial testing involved zeroing at 100 yards and then stretching out to 300 and 500 yards.

The weather conditions were moderately challenging, with a slight crosswind and hazy sunlight. The scope performed admirably, providing clear and bright images even at higher magnifications.

The adjustments felt precise, and the illuminated reticle was a welcome feature when shooting against darker targets. I did find the parallax adjustment a bit stiff initially, requiring a little extra effort to dial in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope has proven to be a reliable performer. It has accompanied me on several varmint hunts in varying weather conditions, including a particularly dusty outing and a drizzly morning.

The scope has held its zero consistently, and the lenses have remained clear, even after repeated exposure to dust and moisture. The matte finish shows no signs of significant wear, and the flip-up caps have done a good job of protecting the lenses.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe down with the included cleaning cloth after each use. Compared to a previous budget scope I owned, the Vanguard offers a significantly clearer image and more precise adjustments, making it a worthwhile upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope

Specifications

• The Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope features a 50mm objective lens, allowing for ample light transmission. This larger objective enhances visibility in low-light conditions, improving performance during dawn and dusk.
• It offers a magnification range of 5-20x, providing versatility for both close-range and long-range shooting. This range allows for target acquisition at varied distances, suiting different hunting and shooting scenarios.
• The scope has an illuminated Duplex reticle, aiding in target acquisition in low light. The illumination adds contrast and helps the shooter quickly identify the target.
• Its 30mm tube diameter allows for a wider range of adjustment for windage and elevation. This is crucial for making accurate shots at longer distances.
• The scope’s Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle maintains its size regardless of magnification. This makes it easier to estimate range and holdover at lower magnifications, while not obscuring the target at high magnification.
• The exit pupil ranges from 10mm to 2.5mm, impacting the brightness of the image as magnification increases. Smaller exit pupils at high magnification can lead to a dimmer image.
• It features a red illumination color, which is less likely to affect night vision compared to green or blue. Red is a common choice for illuminated reticles as it is less disruptive to the eye’s natural adaptation to darkness.
• The matte finish reduces glare and provides a non-reflective surface. This helps prevent spooking game and minimizes unwanted attention.
• The linear Field of View ranges from 21.9 to 5.6 ft at 100 yards, affecting the amount of area visible through the scope. A wider field of view at lower magnification aids in target acquisition.
• The scope provides an eye relief of 4.13 – 3.54 inches, ensuring comfortable viewing and minimizing the risk of recoil-related injury. Proper eye relief is crucial for shooter safety and comfort.
• It weighs 25.7 oz, which is a moderate weight for a scope in this class. Weight can be a factor when considering overall rifle balance and portability.
• The adjustment click value is 1/4 MOA, allowing for precise adjustments to windage and elevation. Fine adjustments are essential for achieving pinpoint accuracy.
• The scope’s length is 14.76 inches, which is a standard size for a scope of this type. Length can influence mounting options and overall rifle handling.
• It utilizes MOA adjustments, a common and familiar system for many shooters. MOA is a standard unit of angular measurement used in ballistics.
• The parallax is fixed at 100 yards on this specific model, which may limit its effectiveness at very close or very long ranges. Adjustable parallax is often preferred for maximum versatility.
• LED illumination provides a bright and efficient light source for the reticle. LEDs are known for their long lifespan and low power consumption.
• It uses a CR2032 battery, a common and readily available battery type. This ensures ease of replacement when needed.
• The scope body is constructed from 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum, providing strength and durability. This material is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio.
• The lenses are made from ED Glass, which minimizes chromatic aberration and enhances image clarity. ED glass is a premium material often found in high-end optics.
• The lenses are Fully Multi-Coated to maximize light transmission and reduce glare. Multi-coating improves image brightness and contrast.
• It is both weather-resistant and waterproof, protecting it from the elements. This ensures reliable performance in various environmental conditions.
• The scope is also fogproof, preventing internal condensation that could obstruct the view. Fogproofing is essential for maintaining visibility in humid or rapidly changing temperatures.
• It requires one CR2032 battery for illumination. Having a readily available battery type is convenient.
• The package includes flip-up Protective Caps, a Cleaning Cloth, and a Neoprene Cover, providing added value and protection. These accessories help maintain the scope’s condition.
• It is a variable magnification scope, offering flexibility for different shooting scenarios. Variable magnification allows the shooter to adapt to changing distances and target sizes.
• The W/E Travel at 100 Yds is 51 MOA, providing ample adjustment range for windage and elevation. This is important for long-range shooting and zeroing.
• It is designed for use on rifles. Rifle scopes are designed to withstand the recoil and demands of rifle shooting.

Performance & Functionality

The Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope performs its primary function – magnifying distant targets – quite well. The image clarity is impressive, especially considering the price point.

The scope’s illuminated reticle proves invaluable in low-light conditions, making target acquisition significantly easier. However, at the highest magnification, the image can become slightly darker, a common characteristic of scopes in this range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality feels solid, with the 6061-T6 aluminum tube providing a reassuring sense of robustness. The scope has a comfortable weight, not too heavy to make the rifle unwieldy, but substantial enough to feel well-made.

The adjustments are generally smooth, although the parallax knob was initially a bit stiff, it has loosened up with use. The rapid focus eyepiece is a welcome feature, allowing for quick adjustments to individual eyesight.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust construction suggests that the Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope should withstand years of use. The anodized finish seems resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the waterproof and fogproof design adds to its longevity.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down after each use. The included flip-up caps provide added protection against dust and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope comes with a few useful accessories, including flip-up protective caps, a cleaning cloth, and a neoprene cover. While there are no direct Vanguard-branded customization options, the scope’s standard 30mm tube makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and mounts.

The illuminated reticle uses a standard CR2032 battery, making replacements readily available. The scope also appears to be compatible with aftermarket sunshades designed for 50mm objective lenses, though I have not personally tested this.

Pros and Cons of Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope

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Who Should Buy Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope?

The Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope is perfect for varmint hunters, target shooters, and anyone looking for a reliable optic with high magnification capabilities. This scope offers a great balance of performance and price, making it ideal for those who want to extend their shooting range without breaking the bank.

Those who require adjustable parallax for extreme long-range shooting or very close-range engagements should consider a different optic. Additionally, shooters who demand the absolute best image quality at the highest magnifications may want to explore more expensive options.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of 30mm scope rings.

Conclusion on Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope

The Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope delivers a solid performance at a compelling price. It offers a clear image, reliable adjustments, and a durable construction, making it a worthwhile investment for many shooters.

The $499.99 price is justified by the scope’s features and performance. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile and affordable high-magnification optic.

If you’re looking to improve your long-range shooting capabilities without emptying your wallet, the Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope is definitely worth considering. Go ahead and give it a try – you might be surprised at how much performance you can get for the price.