Should I get the PA or do I wait for the vortex? Is there a significant difference? Is it worth the wait?
Look at the CCOP 1-6x as well - several reports that the Vortex is the same optic just rebranded, and it generally goes for $199.
Otherwise, They all three will be basically the same, minor warranty differences, but essentially budget offshore optics so don’t expect anything spectacular. I’ve owned the PA and sold it - not due to any defect or complaint other than these setups are all pretty heavy. A Weaver 2-7x for instance is less than half the weight, if you can live with 2x instead of 1.5x.
Barring anything else, the Vortex, PA, and CCOP will be very similar so pick the reticle you prefer of the three.
I have the PA 1-6 gen 2 with ACSS reticle, and I played with the Vortex 1-6 at SHOT a bunch. Between the two, I would definitely take the PA. In my opinion, the gen 2 PA has a better reticle, better illumination, more distance with BDC hashes, built in wind holds, and is over $100 less. The Vortex seemed like a decent optic, but seemed lacking compared to the PA 1-6. I also thought the Vortex 1-6 felt ‘cheaper built’ than the Vortex PST 1-4. And I got my Gen 2 PA 1-6 with ADM Recon mount for less money that in would cost to buy just the Vortex 1-6 scope.
Anyway, that is just my opinion, but all things considered, the Primary Arms 1-6 seems like the better option for a low cost variable 1-6.