As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of testing numerous rifle scopes over the years. When it comes to precision optics for long-range shooting, the EOTECH Vudu 3.5-18x50mm consistently stands out as a top performer. In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this scope a favorite among serious hunters and competitive shooters alike.
Optical Excellence
The heart of any quality rifle scope lies in its glass, and EOTECH has truly delivered with the Vudu series. The scope features XC High-Density glass, which provides exceptional clarity and light transmission. This becomes particularly crucial during those early morning or late evening hunts when light is at a premium. I’ve used this scope on numerous elk hunts in Montana, where being able to clearly identify antlers at first light can make all the difference in your success.
The multi-coated lenses deserve special mention. They’re treated with broadband anti-reflection coatings that significantly reduce glare and provide crisp, high-contrast images. This attention to detail in the optical system results in bright, clear, and low-distortion sight pictures that give you a real edge in the field.
- EOTECH Vudu 3.5-18x50mm Precision Rifle Scope with H59 First Focal Plane Reticle (Model VDU3-18FFH59)
- First focal plane – Reticle increases in size with magnification
- XC High Density Glass – Impressive light transmission and scene clarity
With a generous 50mm objective lens, the Vudu excels at gathering light in challenging conditions. This large aperture fills a crucial niche, allowing for visible images in situations where scopes with standard apertures might fall short. Whether you’re glassing distant ridgelines at dusk or trying to pick out a bedded mule deer in the shadows, the Vudu’s light-gathering capability is impressive.
First Focal Plane Reticle
One of the standout features of the Vudu 3.5-18x50mm is its first focal plane (FFP) reticle. This means that as you adjust the magnification, the reticle size changes proportionally with your target. It’s a game-changer for long-range shooting, allowing for consistent holdovers and ranging at any magnification level.
EOTECH offers several reticle options, including the MD2-MOA, HC1, and H59. The MD2-MOA reticle, which I’ve used extensively, provides an uncluttered sight picture while still offering useful reference points for windage and elevation holds. It features four medium-long posts and a milling illuminated crosshair that proves incredibly useful in various shooting scenarios.
The illumination system on this scope is noteworthy. Controlled by push-buttons on the side parallax adjustment knob, it offers 10 brightness settings to suit any lighting condition. The brilliant red illumination is easily adjustable, allowing you to dial in the perfect reticle visibility whether you’re shooting under the bright midday sun or in the dim light of dusk. A thoughtful auto-shutoff feature turns off the illumination after two hours of inactivity, helping to preserve battery life when you’re on extended hunts.
Built for the Field
Durability is paramount for any serious hunting optic, and the Vudu doesn’t disappoint in this department. The 34mm single-piece maintube is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing a rock-solid platform that can withstand the harshest field conditions. I’ve taken this scope on numerous backcountry hunts where it’s been subjected to rain, snow, and the inevitable bumps and knocks that come with mountain hunting. Through it all, the Vudu has maintained its zero and performed flawlessly.
The scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. EOTECH claims it can withstand submersion up to 1 meter, though I haven’t personally tested this limit. What I can attest to is its excellent performance in wet conditions – I’ve used it during rainy elk hunts where lesser optics would have fogged up or failed entirely.
The Type III hard anodized finish not only adds to the scope’s durability but also provides a non-reflective surface that’s crucial for staying concealed in the field. It’s these kinds of thoughtful design elements that show EOTECH’s understanding of what hunters and shooters need in real-world situations.
Precision Adjustments
For those who enjoy stretching their shooting distances, the Vudu offers an impressive range of adjustment. With 80 MOA of windage and 100 MOA of elevation travel, you have plenty of room to dial for those extreme long-range shots. The turrets provide 1/4 MOA click adjustments, allowing for precise fine-tuning of your point of impact.
The EZ Chek zero stop turrets are a standout feature, providing positive, repeatable adjustments with audible and tactical clicks. This system allows you to quickly return to your zeroed setting after dialing for long shots – a crucial capability when you need to transition between different ranges quickly.
One small but significant detail I appreciate is the included throw lever for the magnification ring. This allows for fast, easy transitions between power settings, which can be particularly useful when scanning for game at low power, then quickly zooming in for precise shot placement.
The side-mounted parallax adjustment, which ranges from 15 yards to infinity, is another thoughtful touch. It allows for quick, precise focusing across a wide range of distances, eliminating parallax error that could otherwise throw off your shot at longer ranges.
Real-World Performance
I’ve had the opportunity to use the Vudu 3.5-18x50mm on several hunts and shooting competitions, and it’s consistently impressed me with its performance. One particularly memorable experience was during a late-season mule deer hunt in Montana. We spotted a mature buck bedded on a distant ridgeline, about 375 yards away. The clarity of the Vudu allowed me to clearly assess the deer’s antlers and make the decision to take the shot.
Using the MOA reticle, I was able to quickly range the deer and hold for both elevation and a slight crosswind. The crisp glass gave me confidence in my target identification and shot placement. When the trigger broke, the buck dropped cleanly – a testament to the precision this optic allows.
In another instance, I used the Vudu during an elk hunt in the Madison Valley. We encountered a herd of over 270 elk, mostly cows with a few spikes and one legal four-point bull. At a distance of 350 yards, the scope’s clarity allowed me to easily pick out the bull among the herd and make a clean, ethical shot.
The scope’s performance isn’t limited to hunting scenarios. I’ve also used it in long-range shooting competitions, where its precise adjustments and clear optics have helped me consistently ring steel at distances out to 1000 yards and beyond.
Potential Drawbacks
While the EOTECH Vudu 3.5-18x50mm is an excellent scope, it’s important to consider a few potential drawbacks. At around 30 ounces, it’s not the lightest scope in its class. For hunters who count every ounce in their backcountry gear, this might be a consideration.
Additionally, while the 3.5-18x magnification range is versatile, some shooters might prefer a higher top end for extreme long-range work. However, for the vast majority of hunting and practical long-range shooting scenarios, this range is more than adequate.
Lastly, with a price point around $1,700, it’s a significant investment. However, when you consider the optical quality, durability, and precision it offers, it represents solid value in the high-end scope market.
Is It Worth the Investment?
After extensive use in various conditions, I can confidently say that the EOTECH Vudu 3.5-18x50mm Precision Rifle Scope is worth the investment for serious hunters and long-range shooters. It competes favorably with scopes costing significantly more, offering a combination of optical clarity, durability, and precision that’s hard to beat.
If you’re looking to upgrade your rifle’s optic for improved long-range performance and reliability in tough hunting conditions, the Vudu 3.5-18x50mm deserves serious consideration. Its combination of clear glass, thoughtful features, and rugged construction make it a scope you can depend on when it matters most.
For those interested in checking current pricing and availability, I’d recommend taking a look at trusted retailers like Optics Planet or Brownells. They often run periodic sales that can make this high-end optic a bit more budget-friendly.
Conclusion
In the world of precision rifle scopes, the EOTECH Vudu 3.5-18x50mm has certainly earned its place among the top contenders. Whether you’re chasing elk in the backcountry, competing in precision rifle matches, or just want to enhance your long-range shooting capabilities, this scope has the optical performance and durability to help you make the shot when it counts.
Its XC High-Density glass, first focal plane reticle, robust construction, and precise adjustment systems come together to create a scope that excels in a wide range of shooting scenarios. While it represents a significant investment, the performance and reliability it offers make it a worthwhile consideration for any serious shooter or hunter looking to upgrade their optics.
In my experience, the EOTECH Vudu 3.5-18x50mm Precision Rifle Scope has consistently delivered when it matters most, whether that’s making a crucial shot on a trophy animal or hitting a distant steel target in competition. If you’re in the market for a high-performance riflescope that can handle whatever you throw at it, the Vudu deserves a spot at the top of your list.