Home » Rifle Scopes » Vortex Crossfire II Review - 4-12x44 Rifle Scope with Dead-Hold BDC MOA (CF2-31015)

Vortex Crossfire II Review - 4-12x44 Rifle Scope with Dead-Hold BDC MOA (CF2-31015)


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crossfire II 4-12x44
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

Magnification: 4-12X
Power Variability: Variable
Objective Diameter: 44 mm
Length/Weight/Tube Diameter: 13.1"/17.2 oz/1"
Field of View: 24.7-8.4 feet/100 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 3.9"/11-3.6 mm
Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC
Adjustment Info: 1/4" MOA/Click
Optics Coatings: Fully multi-coated
Finish: Black/Matte
Waterproof/Shockproof: Yes/Yes
Parallax Setting: Factory-set 100 yards
Airgun rated: No
Illuminated Reticle: No
Mounting Rings Included: No

Best Uses: Big Game Hunting, Small Game Hunting, Varmint Hunting, Target Shooting

Vortex Crossfire II 4-12X44 Scope Review

You don't have to look far for a quality rifle scope that knows how to do the bare basics well. In fact, you only need to look as far as Vortex for a scope and you're done shopping. They know what features matter and how to make it count.

The Crossfire II rifle scope is the epitome of fundamental functionality at its best. Who needs the flair when it means more money and more user complication? The Crossfire II scope keeps things simple while sporting quality in what it does have.

Close up of turrets Crossfire II
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

Features like its fully multi-coated optics that have multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings to keep glare to a minimum and optimal light transmission on the go. You also have the single-piece tube body for ultimate strength and scope integrity to ensure those precise and accurate adjustments when you need it most.

You don't have to be without the zero-reset turret either since the Crossfire scope has it. They're also capped to ensure protection while in storage or out in the most unforgiving terrain and weather conditions. Speaking of weather, it's fully waterproof and fogproof for insurance against the inevitable accidents that happen while in the hunt. You know what we're talking about, drops from tree stands into puddles, mud, and when it decides to hail down like the heavens are personally taking a stand against you.

You can literally count on one hand the complaints on this scope. The only legitimate moan was about poor image quality beyond 9X magnification. However, this isn't the trend for the majority of buyers, nor is it a trend of the brand, so it must've been a defective unit. Clarity, accuracy, and ease of use are the most highly rated reasons why buyers recommend the Crossfire. This is even without mentioning the VIP Unconditional Lifetime warranty. Throw that in the mix and this buy is a no-brainer!

Pros:

  • Price
  • Zero-reset turret
  • Capped turrets
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • Fully weatherproof

Cons:

  • Defective units

Vortex Crossfire II 4-12X44 Q&A:

What kind of Reticle does the Crossfire II scope have?

This particular model has the Dead-Hold BDC reticle. It's a ballistic holdover reticle that can be customized for specific yardages according to your specific load.

Specific models of the Crossfire II scopes are also available with the V-Plex and V-Brite reticles.

YouTube video

What are the V-Brite and V-Plex reticles?

The V-Plex reticle is your all-purpose duplex reticle. The V-Brite reticle uses the V-Plex reticle as the platform but the center is illuminated with a red dot.

What are the Adjustment Measurements for the Crossfire II?

The one inch tube has max elevation and windage adjustments of 50 MOA. With each click of the turret, the reticle moves 1/4" MOA.

Does the Vortex Crossfire 2 have Parallax Correction?

This model doesn't have parallax correction. However, the 4-12X40, 4-12X50, and 6-18X44 models have the adjustable objective (AO) feature that does correct for parallax. There is also the Crossfire II 3-12X56 Hog Hunter, 4-16X50, and 6-24X50 models that also have the AO.

How does AO work?

The objective bell will have an adjustable ring called the Adjustable Objective. This ring can be rotated for specific yardages to align the objective lens assembly and reticle to focus the image in the same optical plane. There are benefits of having an AO versus a side focus turret, and to learn more about mastering parallax and using AO.

Are there 2 Crossfire II lines?

There may be some confusion when it comes to identifying Crossfire II rifle scope models. To clarify, there's only one Crossfire II line with two series. You have the 1" tube series with 10 models. Then there is also the 30mm tube series with four available models. The Crossfire (predecessor to Crossfire II) rifle scopes have been discontinued.

vortex crossfire 2
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

What is the Farthest Range you can Shoot with the Vortex Crossfire 2 Scope?

Many factors affect maximum shooting range including the shooter's abilities, rifle, ammo, and weather. However, with ideal conditions and shooter experience with the right rifle and loads, you can get out to 1,000 yards.

Can a Sunshade be Mounted to Vortex's Crossfire II?

The Crossfire II rifle scope does have threading for a sunshade with a thread pitch of M49.8x0.75-6H. However, Vortex doesn't currently produce a sunshade that fits the scope. Vortex currently recommends a MK Machining universal sunshade that is compatible with the Crossfire II.

Noteworthy Features:

  • Fast focus eyepiece for smooth and quick reticle focusing
  • Hard anodized finish for low-glare, anti-reflective benefits in the hunt
  • Capped reset turrets for weather protection and fast return to zero
  • Single-piece tube for scope integrity and adjustment accuracy
  • VIP Unconditional Lifetime Warranty

Our Verdict on the Vortex Crossfire II

Close up of eyepeice on Vortex Crossfire 2
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

According to the bull's-eye, the Vortex Crossfire II 4-12X44 rifle scope has a lot of potential for use in the hunt. You don't have to break the bank for quality glass and high-performing features on a high-powered unit. While it's a simple optic, it has a lot to offer.

Another example of how Vortex does it best is with the Viper PST 6-24X50 scope. Granted, you're spending a lot more dough on it, but when you've seen how a $200 scope can perform, wouldn't you be more than curious to see how this one will?

Thinking outside of the box a little, the Leupold Rifleman 4-12X40 rifle scope sports almost similar specs. Yes, it's more expensive than the Vortex, but it has a few, unique features that earn it its price tag. Features like Made in the USA and friction turrets. Not sure what friction turrets are? You'll have to check it out here!

If you want quality where it matters most, Vortex gets it done. That's what matters in the end, right? Quality in the fundamental features without breaking the bank. The Crossfire II is a Vortex all the way!

Further Reading

Photo of author

Simon Cuthbert - Founder

Simon is an avid outdoor enthusiast and the founder of Target Tamers. He is passionate about bringing you the most up to date, accurate & understandable information on sports optics of all kinds and for all applications. Simon has contributed to notable publications online and teaches beginners the technical side of optics through his extensive library of optics guides.

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