Is the Vortex Viper PST Gen 2 actually better than the Gen 1?

Published on June 18, 2022
Duration: 6:35

This video provides an in-depth comparison between the Vortex Viper PST Gen 1 and Gen 2 rifle scopes, focusing on their physical differences, optical performance, and internal mechanisms. The speaker, Hop, offers a pragmatic assessment of the Gen 2's improvements, particularly its turrets and zero stop, while critically evaluating its increased weight compared to the Gen 1. The analysis highlights trade-offs in design and functionality between the two generations.

Quick Summary

The Vortex Viper PST Gen 2 offers significant upgrades over the Gen 1, including beefier turrets with 24 MOA per rotation, a more precise RZR zero stop, and often improved glass and wider fields of view. However, the Gen 2 is considerably heavier, prompting a critical evaluation of whether the added weight is justified for the specific application.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Weight Comparison
  2. 00:38PST Range Evolution
  3. 01:12Physical and Optical Differences
  4. 01:51Reticle and Turret Performance
  5. 03:06Zero Stop Systems
  6. 05:14Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the Vortex Viper PST Gen 1 and Gen 2 rifle scopes?

The Gen 2 models are generally heavier, feature beefier turrets with more adjustment per rotation (24 MOA vs 12 MOA), a more robust RZR zero stop, and often improved glass quality and wider fields of view compared to the Gen 1. The Gen 1 is praised for its lighter weight and simpler reticle designs in some configurations.

Is the Vortex Viper PST Gen 2 worth the extra weight over the Gen 1?

According to the expert analysis, the Gen 2 offers significant improvements in turrets and zero stop mechanisms. However, the substantial weight increase is a key consideration. For a 2-10x magnification, the weight penalty may be hard to justify unless the enhanced features are critical for the intended application.

How do the zero stop systems compare between the PST Gen 1 and Gen 2?

The Gen 1 uses a CRS shim system which is easy to set but less precise. The Gen 2 employs the RZR zero stop, which requires adjustment with hex screws, making it more tedious to set but providing a more solid and exact return to zero.

Which reticle is better on the Vortex Viper PST Gen 1 or Gen 2?

The choice of reticle depends on preference. The speaker finds the Gen 1's EBR-1 reticle cleaner and preferable for dialing adjustments. The Gen 2 reticles, like the EBR-4, differ in subtensions and design, with the Gen 2 LPVO reticle being noted as simpler.

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