To be honest with you I don't know if there is much choice with that setup then. You will either need to find out for sure if the z-rail will fit with a quad rail, and mount the red dot on that, in front of the carry handle, or mount the sight on top of the carry handle and deal with the high cheek weld and no co-witness. Looking at the picture it almost looks to me like the quad rail would fit with the z-rail there, but since I have never used a z-rail I can't say for sure.

You could also always buck the trend and mount the StrikeFire to the quad rail in front of the carry handle. Just make sure you get a really solid quad rail handguard and that it is tight. The trick will be that with a vertical grip that usually exacerbates the problem with the quad rail potentially moving and shifting your POI of the red dot, since you will probably be putting more torque on the quad rail.

You may want to get some opinions on mounting optics to a quad rail from the optics forum and see what other users experiences are.

It looks like the Daniel Defense light rail is designed to "bolt up" to the upper receiver, in which case you may be good to go with mounting an optic up there. There may also be some other alternatives that have a similar design which will solve that problem as well and make the whole "don't mount optics to your quad rail" argument moot.

Good luck and let me know how things work out for you.

-Sam

Can you post the drill-down to "the optics forum."  I can't seem to find it.

Sure. Here is the link to the optics forum: http://www.ar15.com/forums/forum.html?b=3&f=18

Sam,

I finally finished my M4 build and after finishing up the cleanup from the December ice storm fit some time in to go to the range to sight in my Vortex.

I was quite surprised that I managed as small of a group at 100 yards as I did get considering the red dot covered ALL the black of my NRA B-4 20 yard pistol target printed on 8.5x11" paper at 100 yards.  A 3.5" group with Wolf ammo using my Cyclone Silencer was pleasing.  I did not use the magnifier as there is no way to carry it easily so it's in the box at home.  Maybe next trip I will try it.  I really feel the sight is more at home for usage on targets at 100 yards and less.  I will mount a low power variable scope for any distance.  The red dot obliterates 3/4 of the 8.5" x11" paper target at 100 yards.  It appears to me as if the "dot" is more like 5 MOA  .. Maybe it's my 55 year old eyes that need reading glasses.

At  closer ranges it's sweet.

I do find the recoil activated off switch to be VERY annoying.  Why does the unit "blink" the red dot when the rifle is fired?  Even with the Cyclone mounted which is 21 oz and minimizes recoil, the red dot STILL goes out for about one second after each shot.  

Every time I fire the rifle the red dot goes out then comes back on again a moment later.

This makes rapid fire VERY DIFFICULT!

Is it some OBAMA Environmental Ammo usage reduction feature that is required by the Environmental Protection agency?

Or is it to help reduce green house gasses to slow global warming?  The Al Gore switch...

Maybe it's the BATF&E to thwart people from bump firing or shooting full auto w/o a stamp since the red dot would be "off" all the time.  Is it satellite activated and hooked up to the chip with the GPS tracking network?  So only registered TAX stamp users can have the red dot cut out deactivated.  The chip knows where you are, and any Vortex units near you would have the red dot cut out deactivated.. But only IF you had a Stamp.  

(sick .. but this technology exists and the DOT and LE want it in you cars, an ignition kill switch to be used in car chases or if you are speeding over let's say 85 MPH)

I know you guys at Vortex would not do this on purpose so it MUST be the government!  

Joking aside.... I am guessing MAYBE the spring on the battery cover does not have enough resistance to keep the battery from moving during recoil and is shutting off the unit, or it's an internal problem with some loose or other recoil sensitive part causing it.

No way I could replicate the fast firing in your video do to the blinking red dot.  It would add a good 2 seconds between shots and it really messes up my rhythm.

Sam....  Have you heard of this before?  Is there and easy fix?  Or do I need to send it back.  

Anyone else have this problem?  

I did NOT have the problem of the dot not being bright enough but it was overcast.

Besides the blinking red dot I was satisfied with the unit.

Thanks...

John with blinking red dot syndrome.

Edit to add.... Box says 2 MOA dot.. Web page says 4 MOA  This explains my second paragraph.

Edit  4/20  Julie at Vortex CS will send me a new battery compartment cap with a new spring.  Hopefully this will take care of it.  Nice lady!    I give Vortex CS a 10 out of 10.

Any word on if/when a true co-witness base will be available?

John,

Sorry about your trouble with the blinking dot.

Yes, this is a known issue that happened on some runs of the StrikeFire, but we have worked all of those issues out now. If the battery cap doesn't solve it, then please give us a call back and we will replace it with a new production unit that will not blink out on you.

The packaging is incorrect. It is a 4moa dot. That's something that will get changed soon. Sorry for the confusion.

Thanks for the feedback and let me know if I can do anything else.

-Sam

Sam,

I will keep you posted.  I was trying to have some fun joking about the blinking, trying to make light of the situation.  I had Julie laughing on the phone.  I have had nothing but exemplary CS from you at Vortex!  It is something many companies could learn from.

I hope the battery compartment cap/spring assembly is all it needs. Not having to exchange my current unit would save me a lot of time and prevent me from ahaving to re sight it in. I suspect it will be simple and the new cap will fix it..

The unit was just fine besides that.  Knowing the dot is 4 moa I feel better and it means my eyes are not as much of a problem as I thought.  As anyone who needs reading glasses knows,  if you wear them when you look into a red dot you get about 6 dots instead of one.  It's weird!  the first time I looked through a red dot with them on I thought the unit was messed up.  

Being able to keep all my shots in the black (3.5") at 100 yards with a 1x 4 MOA "red dot",  using a 16" barreled AR-15 with Wolf ammo ammo no less, was very rewarding.    I could barely see the target!  It will be interesting to see how your "doubler" works in that situation.

I look forward to getting it fixed and testing the work I have done on my Timney Trigger.  I am trying to reduce the creep in the trigger.  It's better but still has room for improvement.  I really expected it to be better.

When it's done and all dialed in it will be a really nice package.  So far it's heading that way.  

Thanks for the help.

John

Sam,

The battery compartment cover came today and I was very excited hoping the problem would be solved.  I screwed my silencer on and fired a test shot in the backyard "range."  Same same.  The dot still goes out.  Bummer.  

I called and talked to Cory who said to return it for an exchange.  My Strike fire will ship back to you tomorrow Priority mail.   I guess I am one of the few unlucky people who got bad ones.  Hopefully that will change shortly!

The quick fix was worth the try .. had the new battery compartment cover worked it would have saved me $9.27 in shipping and insurance, and me having to re-sight in a new unit.  Thanks for accommodating  me and giving that a try.

For now I have a Bushnell Trophy on it.  It will have to do till I get the Strike Fire back. I can't stand the lens covers and not being able to use flip ups.  I also have to mount it on my front hand guard as well as my receiver.. Note it is a 100% co-witness.   I have gotten used to the Strike Fire, and I find it's position a  more natural and a lot easier for aiming with both eyes open than the Trophy.  I also like the dot a little higher than sitting right on the front post like the Trophy does.  The Strike Fire aims much faster.

Just to show how the Trophy mounts.  I can't mount it correctly.  If I do the rear sight will not flip up correctly.  I can't move it back one slot as the front mounting screw will not have a location.  I don't think there is anything "wrong" with it being mounted the way it is.  The Troy hand guard is in just the right position and lings up perfectly.

At least I have an extra optic to hold me over till I get the new replacement.

Again your CS was polite professional and a pleasure to work with.  I also got a real person only after 3 rings.    WAY TO GO!  Thanks... John

http://i529.photobucket.com/albums/dd334/JohnInNH/IMG_2254a.jpg
http://i529.photobucket.com/albums/dd334/JohnInNH/IMG_2255a.jpg

Thanks for the update John. Sorry once again that the battery cap didn't fix the issue. Hopefully the third time is the charm. We'll get your new sight out ASAP. Keep us posted.

-Sam

Got my strike fire a couple of weeks ago and notice that it's different than the photos here.  The power button is on the left side and gets hit all the time turing it on/off and to green.  Do I have a new design?  I would have preferred the button on the top so it didn't get hit every time I lower the rifle into the slung position.  Is there a way to place the controls on a "Lock Out" mode once I'm running it?

The very first run of StrikeFires had the button on top. After that we switched it to the side. Unfortunately, there is no lockout feature.

We are working on several ideas for the future. For now the best I can offer is to use some kind of rubber bumper next to the power switch similar to this picture.



-Sam

do you offer the magnifier seperately and do you know if it will fit/thread into a aimping compc3?  also, do you plan on a magnfier in 4x?

Sam,

That is a slick "fix" for the on/off button!  I will have to look around for a stick on bumper like that..  I have seen some at electrical stores and picture framing stores.  Most have been a little to big.

Other tricks I have found that help with the "scope"  Front flip up should flip DOWN.  It flips down out of the way and rests on the top rail.  The rear I have so when it flips up it is at 10:30-11:00 so it will fold a little farther forward. it rests between the battery cover and the buttons.

The Bushnell is not a clear but I do like having a little more than just the dot.  Having a selection would be nice.  A 12 MOA circle with a 2 MOA dot in the middle or some other choices w/o it being overly complex.  Have a MOA based one for us civilians and a MIL base set for the military.

No, sorry, we don't sell them separately. We could maybe do it on a small scale individual basis, but certainly not on a mass scale. You might want to give our CS a call directly and see if there is something they could work out for you. I have no idea if it will fit the compc3. It uses 27mm threads, if that helps.

A 4x magnifier is something that we are looking at doing.

-Sam

Hi John,

I just got that at a local hardware store. It was made to stick on to the bottom of TVs, computer screens, and other electronics equipment. That bumper is actually called Soft Tough by Waxman, part number 2153.

Thanks for the feedback on the covers and reticles. We'll definitely keep that in mind.

-Sam

are the theads 27x? ?  i measured the id of the eye side and it is 27mm and the threads are rather fine.  i could probably take it to a hardware store and see if i can get an actual thread pitch.  can you tell me what the magnifiers pitch is and also their weight?



 

Sorry, I meant the OD of the threads is 27mm on the magnifier. I don't recall the pitch off hand, but I will look into it and get back to you.

-Sam

Sorry for the wait. I meant to get back to you about this earlier. The threads a 26x0.7mm. Hope this helps.

Let me know if you need anything else.

-Sam

I just "discovered" the Vortex Strikefire and was curious if anybody has mounted it on the carry handle of their AR15 yet?  I was considering that option.  I do not feel the need to co-witness and I like my carry handle sites better than the flip-ups I have played with.  I would need a see-thru carry handle rail too.  Does anyone have any pictures of this type of Vortex Strikefire set up and what see-thru carry handle mount do you guys recommend?

Thanks.

The only downside to that setup is that your cheek weld is going to be awkward. You'll probably have more of a chin weld than a cheek weld actually. What I have seen most guys do that have a built in carry handle is get a "z" mount that puts the optic mounting rail in front of the carry handle and mount the scope there. It gets it down low enough for a more comfortable cheek weld and you should actually be able to co-witness as well. Make sure you get the low mount (hunt) version if you go this route.

This is the style of mount that I am talking about:



Let me know if this helps or if you need anything else.

-Sam

I didn't see an answer to this question, is this something that is in the works?

Thanks,

Wes

Hi Wes,

We're shipping them with absolute co-witness mounts now on the AR-15 versions. So, you should be good to go.

-Sam

Found a reasonably priced cantilever mount at BotachTactical.com in SoCal
It's made by KR and Runs about $40.00.
Perfect co-witness and nice quality.
http://i525.photobucket.com/albums/cc338/esource2000/AR_68SPC_060809-3.jpg

I just got my strikefire last Tuesday, mounted it on my AR and went up to the mountain and shot it.  Needless to say I am quite impressed as were the 4 other people that shot with it.  We probably fired 250 or so rounds that day.  It was easy to zero and shot really well on my rifle.  It was a bright sunny day and I thought that the dot was plenty bright and so did the others there.  After reading other reviews that was one of my biggest concerns, but it was not an issue for me.  My other concern was that Vortex claims the sight to be paralax free from 50 yards.  I was concerned about under fifty yards since the weapon it is mounted on is a SBR and built for shorter range engagements.  I noticed no point of impact change under fifty yards when I moved my point of aim all over the place.  If the dot was on the target that was where it hit.  The glass was clear and I saw no inclusions or flaws.  There is a reddish tint in the glass but it caused my no trouble.  After firing the first few rounds I didn't even notice it.  I didn't use the 2 power magnifier but I will later.  I am pretty impressed with this sight, especially for the money. I would buy another one in a heart beat.  And that is my 2 cents.

Thanks a lot for the review!

-Sam

Yeah. I really need to pick one up for my SBR. been waning to for awhile now. When funds allow it's the first thing I'm
buying gun wise. Do you offer a military discount? Like free

Hi Sam.  Is there any word on Vortex possibly making a 4X magnifier?  I just ordered mine and am patiently waiting on it.  However, if a 4X magnifier was available, I'd like to try one out.

We are working on a magnifier, but I don't have any firm ETA's or specs at this point. I'm hoping i can release more info later this year.

-Sam

Does anyone know what kind of co witness the mount mentioned earlier in this thread has?


cheapo cantelever mount

The only reason I would want this is strictly for looks. I'm a lil vain. lol

Or maybe this one......


Lookalikea-Larue.......


It has the spare battery compartment.......

did I just get suckered into looking at airsoft shit?

Are they all coming with absolute co-witness mounts now? I just ordered one from B&H Photo and was hoping to have a lower 1/3. If it does come with the absolute, is there any way to get the older mounts from Vortex? Or would I need to find an aftermarket mount?

I've read through all the pages on this thread and you've been more than helpful. Thank you in advance for your help with this.

-Carl

Hi Carl,



They are all coming with an absolute co-witness now.



We should be able to swap it out for you once you get the mount though. Give us a call at 1-800-426-0048 and talk to the customer service dept. They will be able to help you out.



-Sam





 

Cool, thank you. I will definitely be recommending Vortex products to everybody I know.

I appreciate it! Thank you!




-Sam



 

Well, I got my Strikefire today and mounted it and it's very solid.

The only problem I have with it is the power button. If I push it straight in, it'll click but won't do anything, but if I push in from the upper corner of the button it works perfectly. I don't know if it's a new design to help stop bumping it off or what, but it's kinda weird. It doesn't bother me that much though.

Overall it's a great product, extremely clear glass and good clear dots. I can't wait to get some range time with it! Thanks for a great product!

Thanks for the feedback. Regarding the power button, it's not a new design, must just be slightly out of spec or something. If you aren't happy we'll certainly replace/repair it for you. Just give us a call 1-800-426-0048 and ask for customer service.



-Sam



 

Sam-

I will purchasing one of your strikefire red dots and mounting it on my .458 SOCOM AR-15.  My carbine has the 16" inch RRA upper, which is a complete flat-top (no front sight base).  I will be purchasing from SWFA.  My question to you is: what ring do you recommend?  should I go with the low ring mount (this is included, I think?) ????..........I'm thinking this would provide for a better cheek weld on the hard kicking .458???

Thanks!!!

I would personally still use the AR-15 mount. I think the low ring would give you an awkward cheekweld and it would not co-witness with any irons available for the AR platform that I'm aware of.



-Sam



 

Just ordered one from BH Photo and Video for $139.95 shipped, plus a free $25 gift card. Can't wait for it to arrive.


Update:
Strikefire arrived. What a great value, well built, ergonomic controls, rock solid mount, excellent sight co-witness. I really like it, and its not even sighted in, yet. Looks good,  too!

Maybe I missed it, but what is the field of view (how many feet wide at 100yds) with the 2x doubler installed?

I just ordered myself a strikefire today for my DPMS 556 sportical, man I
can't wait

I'm not sure, but I will check for you when I get back from SHOT. I do know that the FOV is not very big with the 2x doubler. The VMX3 3x magnifier has a much better FOV. That one will be available in the spring.



-Sam



 

Sam,

Any new word on that 4X magnifier?  Thanks for keeping up with this thread.  It's nice to see some good CS these days!!!

-Chase

We have some info posted on it on our tactical website here: http://www.vortextactical.com/product/vortex-vmx3-red-dot-magnifier



Although it is a 3x, not a 4x.



Let me know if you have any other questions about it. Thanks!



-Sam



 

Thanks!

I have something to shoot in the meantime, including a 2x Aimpoint.
And other guns to feed

Just ordered a Vortex Strikefire.....can't wait to get it...gotta wait till i get home from the wonderful army though.....woohoo....

New member here.  This is my first post!

I just ordered a StrikeFire a few days ago and it will arrive tomorrow.  I'm excited to see how it works on my Sig 522.  Did a lot of online research before making my decision and even went so far as to go down to a local gun shop who supplies Vortex Optics and I examined the StrikeFire in person. I would have bought it from them but they were a tad high on their price, plus I didn't really want to pay sales tax.

Anyway, I've been reading through the posts and I'm quite impressed with Vortex so far!  Everyone I have talked to that has had or used a product of theirs has had nothing but positive things to say.  I have a Nikon mildot on my RRA Predator Pursuit but I've been thinking of put something on it with a bit more of a tactical form and function.  Perhaps I'll soon be in the market for a Vortex Razor HD riflescope.  Those things look bad ass!

I also dropped an email the other day to Cabela's buyers and suggested they carry Vortex Optics.  I love that store and their great customer service, I think them and Vortex would be a great match!

Thanks a lot! I appreciate the feedback and the plug with Cabelas! Hope you like the StrikeFire!




-Sam





 

Got the StrikeFire today.  Looks awesome on the Sig.  I'll be sighting it in at the range tomorrow morning.  

Just a quick question/concern.  Using the scope indoors under relatively dim light tonight I noticed that as soon as the brightness of the dot (both green and red) is turned up a few notches, there is what I guess you would call "ghosting" around the dot.  Basically it looks like the dot is in the middle of a foggy spot on the lens.  It is brand new and obviously the lenses are all clean, so is this normal?  My trusty old Truglo doesn't do that.   As long as you keep the intensity of the dot low you can't see it.  Also, the brighter the ambient light, the less noticeable the "ghosting".  Should I expect this and just deal with it or do you think I need to call Vortex?  If it's an inherent quality of this product I can probably work around it and be happy.  But if it's not supposed to do that I probably would prefer to have it taken care of.