Note: this model has been discontinued. Vortex retired the original Spitfire 3x (SPR-1303) and replaced it with the Spitfire HD Gen II, which we have not yet reviewed. Used units still circulate, and everything below applies to them. Looking for a current AR optic from Vortex instead? See our Vortex StrikeFire II review.
Are you searching for a 3x prism scope? Is the Vortex Spitfire AR worthy? Let us answer these questions and many more with facts, features, specifications, and reviews that will make purchasing the Vortex Spitfire 3x an easy choice.
In this review we will take a look at the Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope with the Enhanced Battle Reticle (EBR) 556B reticle optimized specifically for a .55 grain 5.56x45mm cartridge and all the features that make up this AR ready tactical optic.
I will provide you with the technical specifications and great features. Then we will see what other shooters and hunters have to say about this 3x prism scope from Vortex Optics. Additionally, we will recommend the best place to purchase the Vortex Spitfire 3x.
Spitfire 3x Review
The Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope with the Enhanced Battle Reticle (EBR) 556B reticle is optimized for the .55 grain 5.56x45mm cartridge and 16-inch barrel, making it a reliable go-to for AR enthusiasts. The Vortex Spitfire is equally effective with other cartridges and barrel lengths making it well suited for a variety of shooting or hunting scenarios.
Reticle
Okay, first things first let’s get straight to the reticle. We know this is not a red dot sight in the truest sense, but the reticle in this prism scope can be illuminated either red or green with the simple turn of a dial. There are five intensity settings for the reticle to include off which allows you to use the reticle without illumination.
The Enhanced Battle Reticle is etched directly on the prism with range markings from 0 to 500 yards, making this sight optimal for AR shooting platforms designed around the flat trajectory of the 5.56x45 cartridge (.223 Remington).
The etched reticle ensures a consistent point of aim at all times for close to medium range shooting applications where rapid target acquisition is vital. The etched reticle also helps alleviate drift commonly associated with the typical red dot sights.
The main crosshair intersection of the EBR-556B reticle is intended to be zeroed at 100 yards. When used in conjunction with a .223 Remington cartridge, shooters can utilize the main crosshairs from 0-200 yards effectively.
Design
Because the Vortex Spitfire 3x is a prism scope you get great optical performance in a compact design. The prism-based design delivers sharp optics within a short 5.5-inch long form factor.
The optics are housed in a single piece chassis milled from solid aluminum alloy stock making it a rugged and lightweight sight for its class. Weighing only 15.4 oz, shooters will maintain maneuverability and balance for maximum control when mounted on their favorite long rifle.
The exterior of the scope is coated with a highly durable hard-coat anodization matte finish. While all of the air-to-glass lens surfaces have a multi-coating anti-reflective finish that increases light transmission. These features combined can also reduce the shooter’s signature when camouflage is important.
The Spitfire Prism Scope has been nitrogen gas purged to prevent internal fogging, enabling operations from 22 degrees below zero up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. The scope utilizes O-ring seals to guard against moisture and dust.
This optic also includes integrated flip up style lens covers and an ocular lens focus adjustment bezel to fine tune an out of focus reticle.
Operation
The Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope incorporates elevation and windage dials with audible clicks. Each click will move the point of impact 1/2 Minute of Angle (MOA) giving shooters and hunters the ability to make fine adjustments for increased precision and accuracy.
The Spitfire 3x has maximum windage and elevation adjustment of 120 MOA. You will also appreciate the wired tethered turret caps instead of the rubber ones we often encounter ensuring that you will never lose them.
The reticle brightness is adjusted via a top mounted rotary dial. Vortex Optics has included both an illuminated red dot or green dot reticle option in the Spitfire 3x prism scope.
The reticles are powered by a top-loaded single A 3-volt lithium coin cell, 20mm across, and the most common red dot battery (about 210 to 240 mAh). Stocked almost everywhere, so a field swap is easy.Full comparison → battery. You can expect a battery life of up to 250 hours of continuous use when on its highest setting and 3,000 hours of continuous use when on its lowest setting.
Mounting
Mounting the Vortex Spitfire is achieved by utilizing the included mount and 2x base clamp hex nuts. The scope can be mounted at two heights with the included mount. Use the factory mounted height of 40.4 mm from the optic center to base surface for a lower 1/3 co-witness height. You can also remove the mount riser to achieve a lower 30 mm mounted height. When mounting you should allow for a 2.8-inch eye relief.
One bonus feature that you will absolutely find useful is the 2 Picatinny rails set atop of the scope at 45-degree angles. These are perfect for mounting reflex sights or red dot sights for short range engagements.
Details
Included with your purchase:
- Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope
- (2) Picatinny rails
- T-20 Torx wrench
- 2mm hex wrench
- CR2032 battery
- Flip caps
Customer Feedback
The Vortex Spitfire has a 4.7/5 stars with over 600 reviews with over 80% five star ratings.
Quality: Excellent optics with crisp viewing at a 3x magnification.
Optics: All the benefits of a red dot sight coupled with the benefits of a small fixed power scope makes for a sight useful in any situation.
Warranty: Break it and get it fixed or get a new one with no cost to you — it’s that simple.
Price: Performed like prism scopes three times the price.
Variations
If you would rather have an AR prism scope with less magnification and a dual ring tactical reticle, check out the Spitfire 1X Prism Scope (SPR-1301).
