Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle Review

Let’s Dive into Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle

The Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle isn’t just another piece of glass; it’s a compact, versatile tool designed for anyone needing quick, accurate observation and ranging in the field. From Vortex Optics, a name synonymous with quality and durability, this monocular packs a surprising punch in a small package, offering 8x magnification, a ranging reticle, and rugged construction. Its compact size and tactical features make it an ideal companion for hunters, law enforcement, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

I was searching for a lightweight, yet powerful optic that could easily fit in my pack or on my belt for quick target identification and distance estimation during backcountry hunts. Binoculars were often too bulky, and a dedicated rangefinder felt overkill for many situations. The ranging reticle and compact size of the Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle seemed like the perfect balance of capability and portability.

Upon unboxing, the monocular felt solid and well-constructed. The rubber armor provided a secure grip, and the focus ring moved smoothly. It was noticeably lighter and more compact than my 10×42 binoculars, making it instantly appealing for situations where space and weight are critical.

I considered the Leupold RX-650 rangefinder and the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD monocular. The Leupold was excellent for ranging, but lacked the broader utility of an optic. The Bushnell offered good clarity, but didn’t have the ranging reticle I was specifically looking for. The Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle seemed to offer the best combination of both worlds, at a reasonable price point.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to field-test its ranging capabilities and optical clarity in real-world conditions. This monocular immediately felt like a useful addition to my gear, not just another gadget.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle at my local shooting range, specifically to evaluate the ranging reticle’s effectiveness. I set up targets at known distances and practiced using the reticle to estimate ranges. The monocular performed well even in slightly overcast conditions, providing a bright and clear image of the targets.

During a subsequent backpacking trip in the Pacific Northwest, I also used the monocular in wet and foggy conditions. The waterproof and fogproof features proved invaluable. The rubber armor provided a secure grip even with wet hands. It took some initial practice to accurately use the ranging reticle, but after a few hours, I became proficient at estimating distances.

The focus adjustment was easy to use, even with gloves on. Initially, I was surprised at how much the ranging reticle improved my distance estimation skills, even for targets beyond the range’s marked distances.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The rubber armor still provides a secure grip and shows no signs of peeling or cracking.

Cleaning the lenses is simple using a lens cloth and cleaning solution. The monocular has proven to be very low-maintenance. Compared to my previous experience with lower-quality optics, the Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle has far exceeded my expectations. Its durability and reliable performance have made it an indispensable part of my outdoor gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle

Specifications

The Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle boasts an 8x magnification, offering a good balance between detail and field of view. Its 36mm objective lens provides ample light gathering capability. The monocular weighs in at a mere 10.2 ounces, making it incredibly easy to carry.

Its field of view is 393 feet at 1000 yards, with a 7.5-degree angle. The eye relief is a generous 18mm, making it comfortable to use with or without glasses. The close focus distance is 16.4 feet, which is adequate for most observational tasks.

The monocular is waterproof and fogproof, thanks to nitrogen gas purging. It has fully multi-coated lenses for optimal light transmission and anti-reflective performance. The Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle measures 5.4 inches in length and 2.3 inches in width.

These specifications translate to a bright, clear image even in low-light conditions. The generous eye relief ensures comfortable viewing for extended periods. The compact size and light weight make it easy to pack and carry, which is a significant advantage for anyone moving quickly in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle performs its job admirably. The 8x magnification provides a clear and detailed view of distant objects, while the ranging reticle allows for quick distance estimation. The image is sharp and clear, with minimal distortion.

The ranging reticle is easy to use once you understand how it works. It allows for reasonably accurate range estimation to targets of known size. The monocular excels at quick target identification, making it useful for hunting, scouting, and security applications.

The focus adjustment is smooth and precise. A potential weakness is that the reticle requires some practice to master; however, the manual provides clear instructions. Overall, the performance of the Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle meets and often exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle is excellent. The materials used feel durable and robust. The rubber armor provides a secure and comfortable grip.

The monocular is lightweight and well-balanced. There’s a slight learning curve to using the ranging reticle. The overall design is user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle is built to last. Its rugged construction and waterproof/fogproof design ensure it can withstand harsh conditions. With proper care, this monocular should provide years of reliable service.

Cleaning the lenses is simple and straightforward. No special tools or equipment are needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle comes with a utility clip, a soft carry case, and a lens cloth. While there are no specific customization options for this monocular, it is compatible with most standard monocular harnesses and straps. The flared eyecup is designed to block stray light. The unit ships complete and ready for use right out of the box.

Pros and Cons of Vortex Solo Tactical RT 8×36 Tactical Monocular w/ Ranging Reticle