Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP — MOA Review (2025 Buyer’s Guide)
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Scope Overview
- Key Features & Specs
- Pros & Cons
- Real-World Test Scenarios
- Ballistic Examples (MOA)
- Competitor Comparisons
- Durability & Warranty
- Setup & Training Tips
- Best Use Cases
- Amazon Pricing & CTA
- FAQ
- Final Verdict
Introduction
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP MOA is one of the best-selling entry-level long-range scopes in America. Designed for hunters, PRS newcomers, and budget-conscious shooters, it packs serious features like First Focal Plane (FFP) MOA reticles, exposed tactical turrets, 50mm objective, and a 30mm tube — all for well under $500.
This review dives deep into real-world performance, pros & cons, ballistic testing, PRS match use, and comparisons against its competition.
If you’re not sure whether MOA or MIL scopes are right for you, start with our cornerstone: 👉 MOA vs MIL Rifle Scopes.
Scope Overview
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 6–24× |
| Objective Lens | 50 mm |
| Tube | 30 mm |
| Reticle | EBR-2C (FFP MOA) |
| Adjustment | ¼ MOA per click |
| Travel | 65 MOA elevation / 65 MOA windage |
| Length | 14.5 in |
| Weight | 24.6 oz |
| Parallax | 10 yds – ∞ |
| Price | $399–$449 (Amazon) |
Key Features & Specs
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First Focal Plane (FFP): Reticle scales with magnification.
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Exposed Tactical Turrets: Crisp ¼ MOA adjustments.
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Large 50 mm Objective: Solid light transmission.
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Side Parallax: Down to 10 yards.
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EBR-2C MOA Reticle: Tree-style hash reticle for holdovers & ranging.
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Fully Multi-Coated Glass: Improved clarity & contrast.
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30 mm Tube: Good elevation travel for the class.
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Vortex VIP Warranty: Lifetime, transferable.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Affordable entry into FFP scopes
- Exposed tactical turrets track reliably
- EBR-2C reticle offers advanced holdover capability
- Solid low-light performance for the price
- Parallax down to 10 yards (great for rimfire)
- Backed by Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty
❌ Cons
- Glass quality not on par with $1,000+ optics
- Turret feel is mushy compared to premium lines
- Heavy for rimfire or ultralight hunting rifles
- No zero stop
Real-World Test Scenarios
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PRS Club Match (6.5 Creedmoor): FFP reticle proved invaluable for quick corrections. Turrets tracked consistently, though clicks felt softer than higher-end Vortex models.
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Long-Range Hunting (7mm Rem Mag): Scope handled dialing to 600 yards without issue; glass clarity was usable in dawn/dusk hunts but not elite tier.
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Rimfire Training (.22 LR at 300 yds): Parallax down to 10 yds is a game-changer for .22 long-range trainers.
Ballistic Examples (MOA)
.308 Win (168 gr)
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300 yds: +4.5 MOA
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600 yds: +15.2 MOA
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800 yds: +23.6 MOA
6.5 Creedmoor (140 gr)
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300 yds: +3.8 MOA
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600 yds: +12.0 MOA
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1,000 yds: +28.8 MOA
👉 Even with its 65 MOA elevation, this scope has enough travel for most rifles out past 1,000 yards (with a canted base).
Competitor Comparisons
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Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 FFP — Similar price, slightly better glass, but heavier.
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Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP — Our current blog subject — reliable Amazon availability under $500.
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Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30×56 — Costs more, but offers ED glass & zero stop.
Durability & Warranty
The Diamondback Tactical has been torture-tested to withstand recoil from .338 Lapua rifles. Vortex’s VIP Warranty means if it breaks — they repair or replace, no questions asked.
Setup & Training Tips
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Zero at 100 yards.
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Use the EBR-2C reticle for both ranging and quick holds.
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Build a DOPE card with actual data.
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Pair with a 20 MOA base for extra long-range dialing.
Best Use Cases
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PRS Beginners needing affordable FFP glass.
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Long-range hunters shooting under 800 yards.
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Rimfire trainers looking for advanced reticle practice.
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Budget tactical shooters.
Amazon Pricing & CTA
👉 On Amazon, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP MOA sells for $399–$449.
FAQ
Q: Does it have a zero stop?
No. Unlike the Viper PST Gen II, this scope lacks a zero stop.
Q: Can it reach 1,000 yards?
Yes, with a 20 MOA rail and most modern cartridges.
Q: How does it compare to the Viper PST Gen II?
The PST has better glass, turrets, and zero stop — but costs twice as much.
Q: Is it good for hunting?
Yes, but it’s heavier than a typical hunting scope.
Final Verdict
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP MOA remains one of the best entry-level long-range scopes in 2025.
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Solid features (FFP, exposed turrets, EBR-2C reticle).
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Affordable pricing (<$500).
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Backed by Vortex’s unbeatable warranty.
It’s not perfect — glass and turret feel are budget-grade — but as a first PRS scope, rimfire trainer, or hunting crossover optic, it’s hard to beat.