Even if you have an eye for measurements, it’s no easy feat to read the rapidly-changing distance of the galloping game and adjust your rifle ballistics in time for the winning shot. That’s why ethical hunters know the value of a dependable rangefinder. Eliminating the guesswork from range estimation can make all the difference between a full meat bag and empty tags after a long hunt. Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 rangefinder offers just that.
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Rangefinder (image: source Vortex)
Comfortable Control & Carry
- two-button system → fast & easy use
- stippled rubber armor
- waterproof & shockproof
- no-tool battery replacement
- tripod adaptable
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 is coated in stippled rubber for a secure grip. The rangefinder fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. There are only 2 control buttons (menu & measurement) on top of the unit, perfectly placed right at your fingertips. The device is waterproof, safe to use in heavy downpours, and can take a beating while advancing through difficult terrain. This rangefinder weighs 215.5 grams (7.6 oz.) but is a very robust and quality-built unit.
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Rangefinder – Components (image: source Vortex)
The compact build saves on the overall space needed to store all your hunting gear. When on the go, there’s a pre-installed utility clip and a wrist lanyard that’s long enough to wear around your neck. The LRF also comes with a matching case that can be fastened to a harness. If you want to attach the Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 to a fixed platform, there’s an integrated tripod socket next to the battery compartment.
Vortex’s user-focused design is much appreciated when switching the CR2 battery. The battery cap is easy to remove with a counterclockwise turn. What’s more, there’s a light indicator that alerts you when the battery drops to 25%. Not that you need to be particularly careful to power the device on and off. A single CR2 will last you 2000+ range cycles at brightness level 3, per the manufacturer’s claims.
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Rangefinder (image: source Vortex)
Vortex LRFs – Model Comparison (2022)
Copperhead, Crossfire, Fury, Impact, Ranger, Razor, Viper … and Diamondback. Many known brands seem to release LRF devices as an afterthought, merely to diversify the production lane. Vortex is the exception, with continuous updates to their LRF repertoire.
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 is on the lower end of the manufacturer’s LRF line-up. It will fill in the gap left by the phased-out Vortex Ranger 1800 LRF. As the name suggests, Diamondback HD 2000 adds 200 yards to the maximum (reflective) range of the Ranger model. To top it off, it’s also primed to be a tad cheaper (admittedly, the price difference is only 50 bucks but hey – who’s complaining?).
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Rangefinder – LRF Line-Up Comparison (image: source Vortex)
Just a note that Diamondback HD 2000 enables only 2 target modes: Normal and Last. We can’t fault that because the simple and straightforward use is Diamondback’s best feature. First priority mode on a hunting LRF wouldn’t get much use anways, unless you also golf on the weekends.
Simple Reticle & Two Target Modes
- 7x magnification
- red OLED display
- 2 target modes → Normal & Last
- 3 ranging modes → HCD, LOS, Scan Mode
- yards or meters
With 0.25 second mesuring time, Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 is a fast, no-nonsense tool for your hunting needs. A single red circle reticle can display measurements in meters or yards. The display brightness can be adjusted (5 intensity levels).
As mentioned, there are two target modes available (normal and last). Last target mode is particularly useful when game is surrounded by enviromental obstacles like bushes and rocks. Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 will ignore the foreground distractions and give reading of the furthest object.
Maximum LRF Range
Deer: 1400yd / 1280m
Trees: 1800yd / 1645m
Reflective: 2000yd / 1830m
This model offers maximum rangefinding range of 2000 yards. To properly measure the distance to a deer or other smaller reflective surface, you can be a maximum of 1400 yards away.
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Rangefinder (image source: Optics Info)
Ranging Modes
Horizontal Component Distance mode is the default mode for most hunters and archers who shoot from a tree stand. HDC mode displays angle-compenstated distance to the target.
Line of Sight mode shows the actual line of sight from shooter to target, along with the slope angle.
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Rangefinder (image: source Vortex)
Scan mode is really more of a feature. It will display continous distance mesaurements in real time. The scanning feature is best useful when observing large swaths of land or following targets in motion.
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Rangefinder – Scan Mode (image: source Vortex)
What’s in the Box?
Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 is one of the most affordable laser rangefinders from this US brand. It’s great value for money. To sweeten the deal, Vortex added plenty of extras for a complete user experience.
- Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 LRF
- soft carry-on case
- wrist lanyard
- bungee cord lanyard
- lens cleaning cloth
- reversible utility clip (pre-installed)
- 2mm hex wrench
- hook-and-loop harness attachment
- CR2 Battery
- Vortex VIP warranty card
Technical Specifications
| Vortex Diamondback HD 2000 Laser Rangefinder | |
| Magnification: | 7x |
| Maximal range: | 2000 yds (reflective surface)
1800 yds (tree) 1400 yds (deer) |
| Maximal angle reading: | +/- 60 degrees |
| Field of view: | 335 feet/1000 yards |
| Size & weight: | 4.1 inches x 1.8 inches, 7.6 oz |
| Battery: | CR2, single |
| Battery life: | 2000+ range cycles (brightness level 3) |
| Warranty: | lifetime |
Vortex Diamondback is available for a MSRP of $449.99 at your local sports goods retailer.
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