The Vortex R/T monocular is a capable performer with a lightweight, tough design, impressive image clarity and good low-light capabilities, although it has a stiff focus that may improve over time.
Reasons to buy
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Excellent image quality
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Small and light
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Tough waterproof construction
Reasons to avoid
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Small objective lens
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Very stiff initial focusing
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Only a quarter-turn from close focus to infinity
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The Vortex R/T is primarily designed as a ranging reticle, featuring distinct silhouettes that assist users in making accurate range adjustments. During our testing, we found that this design did not hinder our experience; on the contrary, the ability to gauge the distances to various objects proved to be an incredibly beneficial feature. But while its primary function is for ranging purposes, there is no reason why this versatile scope cannot be utilized for a variety of other outdoor activities, which led us to explore the capabilities of the accompanying monocular.
Key specifications
Design: Roof prism Magnification: 8x Objective lens: 36mm Eye relief: 0.7 in (18 mm) Weight: 10.7 oz (303 g) Dimensions: 5.6 x 2.2 x 2.2-inches (14.3 x 5.3 x 5.3cm) Durability: Rubber armor is waterproof and fog-proof.
The monocular is equipped with a 36mm objective lens that allows for substantial light transmission, enhancing clarity and visibility even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The integration of BaK-4 prisms significantly boosts light reflection and image quality, ensuring that brightness and sharpness are maintained. Additionally, the multi-surface coatings applied to the lenses further improve light transmission and reduce glare, resulting in a useful and competent monocular that excels in both performance and versatility.
This combination of features makes the Vortex R/T not just a tool for precision shooting, but a valuable asset for a range of outdoor pursuits such as birdwatching, hiking and wildlife observation.
The Vortex R/T is designed to deliver both functionality and durability. Its exterior is protected by robust rubber armor, ensuring the unit can withstand various conditions. The objective lens is strategically recessed into the body, providing significant protection and allowing it to be placed upright without the risk of scratching the glass. When worn around the neck, the unit is lightweight enough to remain unobtrusive while also being resilient enough to endure accidental drops, although such incidents are not advised.
This model features two twistable focus rings: one for the primary eyepiece and another for the reticle adjustment. Initially, both rings can feel quite stiff and somewhat challenging to operate; however, they may loosen over time with regular use. The main focus ring has a limited range, only allowing for a quarter turn, which can make fine-tuning the focus a bit cumbersome. Ideally, a complete turn would facilitate finer adjustments, but users of the R/T may need to refocus frequently to achieve a clear image.
Vortex Solo R/T 8x36: Performance
Once the focus is set, we found the unit quick and easy to use.
(Image credit: Matt Morris)
Relatively large field of view
Good low-light performance
Very clear views with good contrast
The R/T boasts an impressive 393-foot (131.4-meter) field of view at 1000 yards (1000 meters), facilitated by high-quality, multi-coated optics that enhance usability across various lighting conditions. Thanks to its 36mm objective lens, extended viewing well into dusk is achievable, making it particularly effective in low-light environments. While there is some pincushion distortion — an intentional design choice by Vortex to mitigate globe effect distortion — this is only noticeable upon close examination.
The inclusion of BaK-4 prisms adds value, although it's worth noting that they lack dielectric coatings. Nonetheless, the combination of a 4.50mm exit pupil and a 36mm objective lens delivers clear imagery during testing. Field observations while watching mallards revealed the capability to discern intricate details such as eye characteristics and feather patterns.
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Additionally, the unit performed well for basic astronomical observations. On a clear night, we were able to view the waxing crescent phase of the moon with notable clarity, although further detail at this magnification level for other celestial bodies remains limited.
Vortex Solo R/T 8x36: Functionality
The 36mm objective is big enough to let in impressive light.
(Image credit: Matt Morris)
Close focus of 16 ft
Folding rubber eyecup
MRAD-based ranging reticle
The Vortex monocular features a close focus range of 16 feet, which may limit its effectiveness for observing butterflies and close-range bird tables. However, it offers 18mm of eye relief with the shroud folded, making it comfortable for users who wear spectacles.
Equipped with an MRAD-based ranging reticle, this monocular is particularly useful on target ranges, allowing for precise adjustments when aiming a firearm. This reticle aids in estimating the relative sizes of various bird species grouped together, thanks to its silhouette system, which provides accurate dimensions at specified ranges. Although this system was novel for us, it proved enjoyable once we familiarized ourselves with its functionality.
The design of the rubber eyecup is noteworthy; it offers comfort while being adaptable for spectacle wearers, and also provides effective protection for the lens.
One area of concern with our test unit was the focus adjustment, which was notably stiff. This stiffness meant that users often had to remove the unit from their eyes to achieve proper focus. This could be seen as a drawback, especially since monoculars are typically valued for their ability to quickly capture images of flying birds or fast-moving insects. While this initial focus adjustment posed a challenge, once the eyepiece focus wheel was set, it remained consistent for further use. It's worth noting that over time, the stiffness may lessen, but our testing period was limited.
Should you buy the Vortex Solo R/T 8x36?
The eye shroud folds flat for spectacle wearers.
(Image credit: Matt Morris)
This monocular is thoughtfully designed and meticulously crafted, featuring a robust rubber body armor that not only enhances its durability but also provides a comfortable and secure grip during use. Weighing in at just over 10 ounces (approximately 290 grams), it is about half the weight of its binocular equivalent. This lightweight design makes it particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts, allowing for easy portability and comfort during extended activities like hiking, where it can be conveniently worn around the neck.
The optical performance of this monocular is impressive, thanks to its multi-coated glass. This feature significantly improves light transmission, ensuring that users experience bright and clear images. Additionally, the use of high-quality BaK-4 prisms is a key highlight, as they play a crucial role in delivering a bright image with enhanced contrast and clarity.
Together, these elements contribute to an overall exceptional viewing experience, making this monocular an excellent choice for birdwatching, outdoor exploration or any other activity where quality optics are desired.
If the Vortex Solo R/T 8x36 isn't for you
Alternatives that might be worth considering include the Opticron Oregon 4 PC Oasis 10x42, which features a raised focus wheel for easier use, and the Opticron Explorer WA ED-R 8x42, which has a larger objective lens for better light intake.
For a more compact option, the Nikon HG 5x15 offers excellent image clarity and sharpness.
How we tested the Vortex Solo R/T 8x36
We put every instrument through a rigorous review to test it thoroughly.
Each instrument is reviewed in many aspects, from its construction and design to how well it functions as an optical instrument and performs while out on location. We look at what accessories are included and suggest other equipment if this would benefit the experience.
Our testing of the Vortex Solo R/T involved a visit to our local birdwatching location which included using the Vortex to observe birds on a lake, in a wooded area and various other environments to put the monocular through its paces.
We also tested the monocular at night in a low light pollution area, where we could observe night sky objects to gain a view of the Vortex’s ability.
Matt Morris is a keen astronomer, wildlife watcher and photographer living in Somerset, UK. He started stargazing and birdwatching at the age of 10 with his father who took him to bird hides and nature reserves around England. This sparked his interest in cameras and optics, a passion that has now spanned the better part of four decades and led to his being featured in several national photography magazines for competition-winning photos. Matt has had deteriorating eyesight in one eye over the last few years due to being Type-1 Diabetic. This has led him to develop a special interest in optics, spurring his passion for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
