EOTECH's New Vudu 3x9 Optic: Tested

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As the saying goes, “Good things come in small packages.” EOTECH’s new Vudu 3-9x32 riflescope proves that statement to be true. While most 3-9X scopes fall in the 10- to 12-inch range, the Vudu 3-9x32 is roughly half that size. It measures only 6.8 inches in length and weighs just 16 ounces yet retains the optical quality of a larger scope. This small footprint offers improved maneuverability and is less likely to get caught on gear and brush, and it’s equally at home with law enforcement and military users. It may be small, but it’s a big deal.

The Vudu’s maintube is machined from an aircraft-grade aluminum forging. It features an integrally machined “Mini-ACOG” interface. A removable crossbolt mount brings the centerline up to 1.56 inches, providing a good cheekweld for ARs and making it ideal for use with forward-mounted clip-on night vision devices (CNVDs). I put an InfiRay RH25 V2 Thermal Monocular in front of the Vudu 3-9x32 and had amazing results.

To get a desired height, almost any aftermarket Mini-ACOG mount can be used, but EOTECH did their homework. I found the factory mount ideal, providing enough height to clear most folding rear iron sights, making this a great package for an AR. It sits in the right spot for proper eye placement. Eye relief is roughly 2.75 inches at 3X and 2.4 inches at 9X.

The 3-9x32 has a hefty magnification ring that’s easy to grasp even with gloved hands. A nub on the ring makes it easy to turn, even in shooting positions. An overmolded reticle focus ring on the eyepiece enables a sharp image of the reticle. Windage and elevation turrets have audible 1/4-MOA clicks. Each turret is protected with an aluminum cap.

For users who need more versatility, EOTECH offers the 3-9x32 with an optional EFLX (pronounced e-flex) mini red dot with 3- or 6-MOA reticle. The mounting ring can be rotated to put the EFLX where the user feels most comfortable. In testing, I found it to be optimum at the 12-o’clock position. EOTECH’s VP of Marketing, John Bailey, said, “Soon, we’ll offer a ring with a Trijicon RMR footprint, but for now, it has the popular DeltaPoint Pro footprint.”

The Sight Picture

Bailey also said, “While there are a few budget 3-9X scopes on the market that are short, don’t be fooled. A lot of clever engineering and manufacturing went into making something with the optical quality of the Vudu 3-9x32.”

I agree. The clarity of the glass is sharp through the magnification range. Low-light transmission at dusk is excellent, as I was able to pick out detail in shadows with ease. The scope is built in Japan, and as a professional photographer, I can attest that the Japanese know how to manufacture optics. 

The HC1 reticle is the same used in EOTECH’s popular Vudu 3.5-18x50. Its hashmark style has clearly-marked stadia lines with a free-floating center dot. The reticle is in the second focal plane (SFP), which means the reticle remains the same size regardless of magnification. SFP reticles are popular for hunting and low-light applications.

A 10-position illumination dial provides red light to the central portion of the reticle. The Vudu is powered by a single CR2032 battery and has a run time of around 300 hours. Each level of illumination is separated by an “Off” click, making it easy to save your desired brightness level and turn it off when not needed.

Overall, the Vudu 3-9x32 is built like a tank. Like everything EOTECH has their hands in making, it’s a superb product. I predict this little scope will be a big hit. 

VUDU 3-9x32 SPECS

• Type: Variable riflescope
• Overall Length: 6.8 in.
• Magnification: 3-9X
• Weight: 16 oz. (18.25 oz. with EFLX red dot)
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• MSRP: $1,059, $1,429 (EFLX option)
• Manufacturer: EOTECH, www.eotechinc.com

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