Introduction to the Vortex Viper PST 1-4×24 Riflescope
If you’re looking for a high-end optic for 3 Gun that won’t break the bank, your search is over.
Having tried to stay within a reasonable budget and make 1.5x work with other scopes, it’s just not the same as the true 1x the Viper PST will give you. Add to that an etched illuminated reticle (with adjustable intensity), you can work targets up close at a red-dot-like speed.
Key Features of the Viper PST
The Viper will appeal to most 3 Gun shooters as it is boasted as shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof out of the box. You’ll get to choose between TMCQ MOA (capped and uncapped) or MRAD (uncapped only). Considering the number of opportunities we have to inadvertently bump the windage or elevation turrets, I’d recommend sticking with the capped MOA reticle. I went against my own advice and gave MRAD a try, only to find my elevation being constantly adjusted when I didn’t want it to be. The provided zero-stop shims are a great help if you truly want MRAD though.
Field Testing: Performance in Extreme Weather Conditions
I have been able to run the Viper PST for a full shooting season here in Minnesota, exposing it to the high heat and humidity we get in the summer and the frigid conditions we see in the winter – to include a match where the day started at 7 degrees below zero. The glass maintained its clarity the entire time and never once fogged up. It’s been bounced around from dump box to dump box and while it’s suffered a scratch or two, the scope has not drifted from its original zero.
Areas for Improvement: Reticle Illumination and Magnification Ring
My only disappointment with the Vortex Viper PST 1-4×24 is the poor reticle illumination in broad daylight or in the severe cold, even at full 10 power you could barely tell it was on. If I had to complain about anything else, it would be how stiff the lubrication is in the magnification ring as it takes quite a bit of effort to move from 1x to 4x power. I am told that Vortex will fix this free of charge, but it’s just as easily mitigated with the throw lever that has become standard for any 3Gunner.
These issues are minor though, this optic performs where it counts and has served me better than expected as a starter scope.
Conclusion: Vortex Viper PST as a Competitive 3 Gun Scope
The build quality is exceptional, and you can’t go wrong with Vortex’s VIP lifetime warranty. At just a few dollars more than entry-level, this scope will let you compete in tactical optics with the best of them.
