Vortex sells a HUGE range of glass quality, from Walmart awful to Swarovski SLC-grade (Razor UHD, not the regular Razor HD).
I don't think you can lump all Vortex in one bucket - those could have been $100 Crossfire kids binos.
FWIW I run Maven B series which have been tested side by side with Swaro SLCs and are near peers for half the cost. Plus no question, fully transferrable no-cost Vortex style warranties. Buy a used pair and save even more.
One of these days I'll buy some NL Pures, but right now I don't at all feel handicapped. If I were the type to spend half a day sitting on a hillside behind the glass it might be worth it, but I never sit still for more than 30 minutes.
I think it's generally a good thing that Vortex, Maven, etc. have pushed the industry leaders to improve their warranty coverage (look at Sig Sauer now copying the Vortex model). More competition means better and cheaper, with better peace of mind. Asian optics are catching up QUICK.