Are you planning a hunt? Selecting a good pair of binoculars is a critical part of the gear you need for your trip. Finding the right pair of binoculars is as challenging as finding the right carbine, rifle, or shotgun. There are so many options; it’s challenging settling on the right one to match your needs.
There’s more involved with choosing the right pair of binoculars than you would expect. Binoculars are like firearms; they come from different manufacturers, with varying levels of quality, functionality, and reliability.
Your binoculars are your visual aid to viewing and assessing the terrain on your hunt. You don’t have the eyes of an eagle, but binoculars can get you pretty close to that quest for eagle-eye vision. With the right set of binoculars, you get a better evaluation of the animals on your hunt. Identify species, gender, and age before deciding on your trophy.
If you’re tracking animals over large distances, a set of binoculars comes in handy for finding them if you don’t land a quick kill shot. Selecting the right pair of binoculars is a must for your hunt. However, with so many options – which one is the right choice for you?
In this post, we’ll look at the best hunting binoculars, and review the top models available. We’ll make recommendations on our favorite models and give you a buyer’s guide to further your understanding of your next hunting trip’s optical requirements.
Our Top Picks
If you want to get on the hunt right away, don’t bother reading through the rest of this review. We made three top choices out of the dozens of models we reviewed. These three have unique features in the categories, whether you’re looking for the top of the line model, an all-round performer, or a budget pair of binoculars.
Best Pick: Nikon 16001 PROSTAFF 7S
- Whether you're looking at wildlife or scenery, two things are important: color and clarity The PROSTAFF 7S brings you both, thanks to Fully Multilayer Coated lenses and Phase Correction Coated Roof Prisms
- Even eyeglass wearers will enjoy looking through the PROSTAFF 7S The turn-and-slide rubber eyecups allow anyone to adjust the space between their eye and the binocular's eyepiece, ensuring a full field of view
- The PROSTAFF 7S is comfortable to hold, even in wet conditions, thanks to its rubber armored body The rubber armor also protects the binocular in case it is dropped or handled roughly
This Nikon model wins our award for the top performer and the best overall hunting binoculars in this review. With this Nikon model, you get the best color and clarity in a variety of lighting situations. Multi-layer coated lenses feature phase correction for an enhanced viewing experience.
Premium Pick: Vortex Optics Viper HD
- 10x magnification and 42mm objective lenses, the Viper HD binoculars have an advanced high density optical system with enhanced anti-reflective lens coating for stunning image quality and top tier light transmission.
- Dielectric, multi-layer prism coatings provide bright, clear, color-accurate images. Coating on roof prism models enhances resolution and contrast.
- A compact, rubber-armored chasis and armortek coating ensures the Viper HD is ready for any hunt.
- Adjust the multi-position eyecups to maximize custom fit for comfortable viewing with or without glasses. A locking right eye diopter adjusts for focal differences between your eyes.
- Argon purged and o-ring sealed, the Viper HD defies the elements ensuring waterproof and fogproof performance, no matter the conditions.
If you want the best-of-the-best, then this Vortex Optics Viper HD model is our top premium choice in this review. With the Viper, you get a crystal-clear visual experience in any lighting conditions, with HD resolution and 10×42 magnification.
Budget Pick: Bushnell H2O Waterproof
- Magnification x Objective: 8 x 25 millimeter
- BaK 4 prisms for bright, clear, crisp viewing
- Multi coated optics for excellent light transmission
- 100 percent waterproof : O ring sealed and nitrogen purged
- Non slip rubber armor absorbs shock while providing a firm grip
If you’re heading out on a hunt and need the best-value deal, you can get in a pair of binoculars; we recommend you go with the Bushnell H2O. This model features quality optics, with 8×42 magnification.
Hunting Binoculars Reviews
Now that you know our top three picks for the best hunting binoculars, let’s unpack each of the models in further detail. We’ll also look at a few other pairs of binoculars worth including in this review.
Nikon 16001 PROSTAFF 7S – The Best Overall Hunting Binoculars
These hunting binoculars win our award for the best overall model. With these binoculars, you get Nikon’s patented Advanced Optical System. Phase-Correction Coated Roof Prisms ensure the cleanest viewing experience in high-definition, with minimal glare and anti-reflection technology.
With these hunting binoculars, you get accurate color reproduction and light transmission across the entire spectrum. The prisms minimize light loss, providing a clear view at distances up to 1000-feet, thanks to the 7x magnification and 30mm objective.
These hunting binoculars a great choice for your intermediate hunter looking to scale up equipment or invest in a pair of binoculars that they want to last a lifetime. You get a rubberized, armored frame that’s drop resistant, with an ergonomic grip for slip protection.
- Lightweight frame with ergonomic design
- Advanced optical system with multi-coated lenses
- Rubber-armored frame for shock resistance
- 10-30 magnification with quality brightness and resolution
- Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups for adjustable eye relief and field of view
- Stippling on the frame for added grip, and neck lanyard clip included
- Underpowered for long-range viewing
Vortex Optics Viper HD – The Best Premium Model Hunting Binoculars
These hunting binoculars are a top choice for hunters, and our pick for the best premium model you can buy. These binoculars feature a sturdy frame with thumb and finger grips, a compact design for lightweight carrying, and HD imaging.
The Viper HD has a powerful 10x42mm magnification, available in a lightweight model that you would expect to find in a 7x32mm. These binoculars have rubberized-armor against drops, and a high-density optical system producing top-quality images thanks to the multi-layer roof prism optics.
The Viper HD comes with adjustable eyepieces to set your preferred eye relief. There’s a tripod socket adaptor onboard and a center-focus wheel for easy adjustment. The locking diopter helps manage your focus, and there’s a strap attachment on the frame of a neck lanyard or shoulder harness.
- Premium design with 10×42 magnification
- High-density optical system for crisp viewing
- Anti-reflective coated lenses
- Dielectric multi-layer prism coatings
- Compact, rubber-armored frame for shock-resistant and waterproofing
- Multi-position eye cups for adjustable eye relief and field of view
- Premium Price
Bushnell H2O Waterproof – The Best Budget Hunting Binoculars
These hunting binoculars are the ideal choice for adventurers that get out into the wild on public land. These binoculars are fully waterproof, making them a good choice for hunts around lakes and wetlands. The best part about these glasses is the price tag; they’re an affordable kit that anyone can own.
You get a non-slip rubber armor casing, with a stippling grip and center-focus wheel. Optimize your viewing experience with the Bak-4 prisms and multi-coated lenses found on premium models twice the price.
These hunting binoculars come with a complete accessory kit, including lens covers, a micro-fiber cloth, and a carry bag with shoulder strap. It’s a fantastic deal for any type of hunter.
- A great budget choice with plenty of value
- Quality optics with HD clarity
- Waterproof and shock-resistant frame and rubber guarding
- Non-slip grip for wet-weather viewing
- Multi-coated optics with 8×42 magnification
- Twisting eyecups for optimal eye relief
- Compact and lightweight for an easy carry
- Slightly underpowered compared to larger models like the Viper HD
Carson 3D Series
These Carson hunting binoculars are a top choice. They come with a non-slip camouflaged frame, featuring rubberized armor for drop resistance. You get ED glass lenses with a 10x42mm magnification. The lenses in this model come gas-purged and fully waterproof and fog-proof.
You get a 314-feet field of view at 1,000-yards, which is fantastic, considering the HD imaging these binoculars produce. They weigh less than 1.5-lbs, making them a lightweight addition to your kit with a powerful objective lens.
You get a completer accessory kit with this pair of binoculars. There’s a carry bag with shoulder or chest strap included with your purchase.
- Camouflage pattern on the rubberized frame
- Sharp and bright images, with 10×42 magnification
- Bino-armor for waterproofing and shock resistance
- Neck strap and harness included
- Adjustable eyecups
- A little pricey
Vanguard Endeavor ED
Reduce color dispersion with ED lenses. The Bak-4 prism system with multi-coated lenses gives fantastic representation under a variety of lighting conditions. These binoculars are waterproof and fog proof, designed for use in any challenging environmental conditions.
The rubberized cover provides excellent drop resistance, with a center-focus wheel for easy view finding in the field. Your get a 8X42 magnification and a 340-foot field of view at 1,00-yards. These binoculars are great for hunters that wear glasses, with a 16.5mm maximum eye relief.
- ED glass reduces color dispersion for high-quality images
- Bak4 phase-coated prisms featuring multi-coated lenses
- 3-stage twist-out eyecups
- Open-bridge body design
- 10×42 magnification with advanced lens coating for use in low-light conditions
- Costly
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD
These Bushnell Legend Ultra HD binoculars feature a rain guard lens for waterproofing, with HS imaging. You get a lightweight, durable chassis with rubber coating for armored protection against drops. These hunting binoculars come with a powerful 10x42mm magnification and objective.
These lenses produce a 340-foot field-of-view 1,000-yards, these binoculars are ab great choice. You get a complete accessory kit included with this model. Bushnell consists of a carry bag with shoulder strap and microfiber cleaning cloth for the lenses.
- Rain-guard lens with a water-repellant coating
- Lightweight magnesium frame with ergonomic grip
- Great optics with ED prime glass
- 10×42 magnification
- Includes bag and a microfiber polish cloth
- Premium Price
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Compact Folding
If you’re going on a hunt, and space in your day pack is essential, we recommend going for the Bushnell folding Legend Ultra HD. These glasses feature the same Legend lens technology as the previous model. However, you get a slightly lower magnification at 10X25mm
The lightweight magnesium frame is ragged, but not the best for drop resistance. You get the same accessory kit included, with everything you need for the maintenance and safekeeping of your hunting binoculars.
- Compact folding design with a slimline form factor
- Lightweight magnesium chassis
- Superior optics with BaK4 prism, ED glass, and rain-guard lenses
- Wide-band anti-reflective lens coating
- Best-in-class brightness
- No non-slip grip on the frame
Bushnell Green Roof Trophy XLT Bone Collector Edition
The Bushnell Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition Trophy XLT is a top-quality model from one of the leading suppliers of hunting binoculars.This model features a 10x 42mm magnification, and fully multi-coated optics delivering razor-sharp images.
The Dura-grip armored housing ensures no damage during drops. The O-ring sealed, nitrogen-purged lenses offer waterproofing and fog proofing for various wet and humid conditions.
- World-class HD optics with superior durability
- Excellent clarity, light transmission, and razor-sharp images
- Updated housing for added robust protection from drops
- Dura-Grip rubber-armored housing
- Sealed, nitrogen-purged for 100% dependability
- Multi-coated optics with Bak-4 prisms and 10×42 magnification
- Soft-touch thumb grips for easy handling
- Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition
- Collectors edition model cost more than the standard XLT
Upland Optics Perception HD
Get exceptional image clarity from these hunting binoculars, with 10x42mm magnification and objective. These glasses come with waterproofing and fog proofing, for use in a variety of demanding environmental conditions.
Your purchase includes a complete accessory kit, including a soft carry case, neck strap, microfiber lens cloth, and flip-down lens protectors.
- High-quality optics with extra-low dispersion glass
- Durable frame with armored chassis for shockproof guard
- 10×42 magnification with adjustable range-finding
- Comes with a range of accessories
- Lifetime warranty
- Compact and lightweight
- Some reports the eyepiece is not durable enough
Xgazer Optics Ultra HD
Achieve super-HD clarity with these hunting binoculars. You get gas-purged and O-ring-sealed lenses for high-quality HD imaging, waterproofing, and fog-proofing. The 10x50mm magnification and objective lens provide a wide field of view with excellent magnification up to 1,000-yards.
You get a complete accessory kit included with your purchases. Unboxing, you’ll find your binoculars, a hard binocular case, microfiber cleaning cloth, lens caps, and a neck strap.
- Professional-grade binoculars
- HD clarity lenses with an expanded field of view
- Anti-reflective lenses with gas purged O-ring seals
- Anti-moisture and anti-fog functionality
- Comes with plenty of accessories
- Hardcover carry bag included
- Slightly Heavy
Other Best Selling Options
- 【Powerful 12x42 Binoculars, but Lightweight Enough】 Weight only 1.1 pounds (0.6 Pounds lighter than 10x50 full size binoculars). Equipped with 12x powerful magnification, 42mm large objective lens and 367ft/1000yds large field of view. Capable of delivering a clear face from more than 650 feet away.
- 【18mm Large Eyepiece Binoculars, Larger Image, Clearer Details】2.25 times the image size of 12mm eyepiece binoculars (e.g. 10x25, 12x25, 10x21 compact binoculars). Large eyepiece makes full use of 12x magnification, deliver larger image, ensure clearer details
- 【HD Vison with Quality Optics】 Large 16.5mm BAK4 Prism and Fully Multi-coated lens guarantee the key elements of an HD vision, brighter view and crisp images. Perfect for birds watching, hunting, Concerts and Sports.
- 【Clear Weak Light Vision】 Adorrgon Binoculars can deliver clear vision in weak light condition, but not in not completely darkness. Perfect for Hunting or Concerts at night. Comes with Carrying Case*1, Eyepiece *1 Lens Protection Covers*1, Cleaning Cloth *1 and Neck Strap*1.
- 【Lightweight, Durable and Anti-slip Grip】 Binoculars with only 1.1 pounds, perfect for traveling or hunting. Durable structure with odorless rubber armor for shock-resistance and Anti-slip grip.
- 10x magnification & 42mm objective lenses, these Crossfire HD binos are optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission.
- Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Roof prism design is valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
- Adjustable eyecups twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. Center focus wheel adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time. Diopter (located on right eyepiece) adjusts for differences in a user's eyes.
- Rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. Binoculars are tripod adaptable allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.
- Nitrogen purging and O-ring seals provide water and fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
- Features fully multi-coated lenses, BAK-4 Prisms and lead-free Glass
- Heavy-duty 100% waterproof/Fog proof construction
- Large center focus knob and 2-step twist-up eyecups
- Textured, non-glare, non-slip rubber Armor absorbs shock
- 10x magnification; 330' field of view; 10' close focus; weighs only 25.3 ounces
- Bundle includes the Trophy XLT Roof Prism Binoculars, 10x42 millilitre(Bone Collector Edition) + Deluxe Binocular Harness
- Fully multi coated optics deliver ultra bright, razor sharp images
- O ring sealed and nitrogen purged for 100% waterproof/fog proof dependability
- Fast focus center focus wheel, 15.2 milliliter eye relief and only 25 ounce
- Deluxe binocular harness keeps the weight off of your neck and keeps your optics front and center
- 【HIGH-POWERED LARGE EYEPIECE BINOCULARS】 This binoculars has 12x magnification, 25mm objective lens and wide field of view, 273ft/1000yds, letting you look farther and see wider. Coating with FMC Broadband coating and premium BAK4 prism, it ensure imaging verisimilar.
- 【ADJUSTABLE EYE CUPS FIT EYEGLASS WEARERS OR NOT】The binocs can be pull down the rubber eyepieces and more fit the glasses wearer, getting close to lens and see easily. The long eye relief combined with large eyepiece give you a comfortable viewing while wearing sunglasses or eye glasses. For those who do not wear glasses, will gain more focused slight and feel more easeful through rising eye cups. The compact binoculars has 15mm large eyepieces, can see more clear image than other binoculars.
- 【FMC BROADBAND COATING TECHNOLOGY】The lightweight cruise binoculars is cover with BAK4 prism texture. The objective lens use optical FMC multilayer broadband green film, and the eyepiece-optical is made of blue FMC coating. All design can can mostly reflect the light to keep a good image and make you have a amazing experience.
- 【PORTABLE, COMPACT AND SMALL BINOCULARS DESIGN】 One hand can be mastered when you use the birding binoculars for opera,bird watching camping, traveling,wildlife watching,football games,cruise or other outside activity, the low light night vision goggles(Not for completely dark night) is more convenient for using and carrying.
- 【DURABLE AND LIFE WATERPROOF, COMFORTABLE TOUCH】 The binoculars are made of ABS plastic and it also come with a cruise binocular strap, you can use this item in different situations. And nonslip rubber armor is made for secure grip, shockproof, light water resistant.The pocket size binoculars is not only suitable for men and women,but also suitable for kids.It is wonderful to be a gift on Father's Day and Children's Day.
Hunting Binoculars Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right binoculars for your hunt takes some consideration. There are dozens of models available. We took a handful of them for this review, and that’s still enough choice to have you scratching your head in confusion.
In this section, we’ll give you the information you need to know to choose the right model to suit your hunting needs. There are binoculars to suit open-area hunting and wooded areas. We’ll help you make the right decision on a pair of binoculars to suit your needs.
Understanding Magnification
You might think that bigger is better when selecting the right set of hunting binoculars for your needs. Magnifications from 7X to 10X are all you need for the most demanding hunts. With higher magnifications, you start to get issues with the steadiness in the image.
Trying to steady a heavy set of binoculars like a 12x50mm can be tiresome, especially after activities like climbing or hiking. There are plenty of observation binoculars you can use in hunting with higher magnifications.
However, these models require the use of a tripod to maintain the steadiness of the image. If you’re out on a day trip and trying to keep equipment lean in the field, carrying a tripod is a hassle.
Choosing a pair of zoom binoculars has its benefits for use in the hunt. If you’re looking for a pair of binoculars for close-range hunting, you’ll only need around 7X to 10X max. The magnification of your binoculars relates to the diameter of the objective lens.
What Is the Objective in Hunting Binoculars?
The size of the objective is the second number in the model specifications. Typically, objectives between 40 to 42mm work with most types of hunting. The larger the objective, the more detail you get in the image, allowing for HD-quality production and the best lighting.
However, the bigger the objective, the higher the price tag on your binoculars. However, if you’re hunting at night, a larger objective makes a significant difference in your range and field of view, even in low-light conditions.
For daytime hunting, we think you’ll be fine with a 400mm objective. You need to understand that the larger the objective, the heavier the lens, and the weight you have to carry. While a pound or two might not sound like much, it makes a significant difference in your performance on a ten or 20-mile hike.
We recommend you don’t go lower than 25mm to 30mm for your objective or risk losing image quality.
FOV – Field of View for Hunting Binoculars
When assessing your binoculars, look for the “Field-of-View,” or FOV. The FOV is the measurement of where you can see with a good degree of accuracy. You want models that offer a minimum of a 1,000-foot FOV as a minimum.
High FOV is unnecessary for most forms of hunting and may hinder your ability to target fast-moving animals on the hunt. The more you amplify the magnification, the smaller the FOV and image appear. Therefore, hunters in open-areas would do better with the higher-end of the FOV range, with a 1,000-foot FOV, while proximity hunters in wooded and mountainous areas will benefit from a 700-foot FOV.
What Is the Relative Brightness Index and Exit Pupil in Hunting Binoculars?
The objective sizer and magnification are the two factors involved with determining the exit pupil. The exit pupil is the size of the opening, allowing light to your eye. As a result, an exit pupil is a number resulting from dividing the size of the objective by the magnification.
The higher the exit pupil, the more light entering your eyes, creating a clearer picture. It’s challenging to achieve the perfect diameter for the objective, and integrate it with your FOV, magnification, and exit pupil.
The average adult human eye expands from around 5 to 6mm during adulthood, and that’s a good starting point for the size of your exit pupil. Choosing the right relative brightness index for your binoculars is easy to calculate using the pupil’s square. Therefore, in dim lighting conditions, expand the RBI to higher or equal to 25 for the best results.
What are Prism Types in Hunting Binoculars?
Hunting binoculars feature two categories of prisms used in its design and construction.
- Roof prisms
- Porro prisms
The roof design features a lightweight design, making it the more user-friendly version. Roof prisms also reflect light 5X more than Porro prisms. However, roof prisms are more expensive than Porro prisms, and you’ll only find them in top models, with high price tags. Still, if you have the budget, the roof prism is the way to go.
The only drawback of the Porro prism is it doesn’t line up directly with the eyepiece. Therefore, the objective starts to look a bit like it’s above the eyepiece. However, if you’re looking for an affordable pair of hunting binoculars, these models will be the better option.
What Kind of Focus Do I Need with Hunting Binoculars?
Your hunting binoculars should feature a focus adjustment. Your model should come with individual eyepiece adjustment or dual-sync adjustment for center focus.
We recommend using individual adjustment eyepieces for long to mid-range fieldwork. Center focus models are the better choice for ranges within 40-yards on your target.
What Is Eye Relief in Hunting Binoculars?
The eye relief in your hunting binoculars is a critical consideration if you wear contacts or glasses. This metric refers to the distance a user can hold to their eye while managing to visualize the entire image.
If you’re wearing eyeglasses, we recommend looking for eye reliefs that offer a minimum of 14mm. If you don’t have sufficient eye relief in your hunting binoculars, it’s going to reduce your field of view.
Is the Optical Coating Important for Hunting Binoculars?
Hunting binoculars feature an optical coating added to the surface of the objective, eliminating light reflection. As a result, the lenses don’t reflect the sunlight in the field, and there are no flashes to startle your targets.
Light loss and glare are two major considerations when selecting your binoculars. Optical coatings help to reduce both issues, giving you a brighter, cleaner image. If you’re looking at purchasing a model with coated optics, it means there is at least a single glass surface on one of the lenses covered with a specialized anti-reflective coating.
Some high-end models feature multi-coated lenses, with FMC (Fully Multi-Coated), and Multi-Coated being to separate distinctions. The FMC lenses are more expensive, and found in premium hunting binoculars like the Viper HD.
Does the Quality of the Image Matter for Hunting Binoculars?
Image quality might be a serious concern if you’re planning on spending hours a day behind your binoculars’ lenses. However, if you’re using the binoculars for a quick spot check on a potential target. You’ll be fine with lesser-quality image rendering.
However, most models in this review feature an excellent level of image quality. Many of these binoculars produce HD images, with crystal-clear visuals of animals and environmental surroundings. You’ll need to make sure you choose a dependable set of binoculars from a top manufacturer.
Top companies use high-quality lenses from specialist manufacturers like Nikon and Carl Zeiss. These lenses might cost a bit more, but they’re worth the quality, especially for spectating activities.
What Is the Best Weight and Size for Hunting Binoculars?
If you want the trouble of lugging around full-size binoculars, that can add up to 2-lbs to your gear’s total weight. That might not sound like much, but after a whole day on your feet hiking, it’s going to make a significant difference.
The amount and type of glass involved in the lenses’ production play a significant role in this department. Therefore, the higher the objective on your specs, the heavier the glasses. Choose the lens type that matches your hunting environment and cut down on your gear’s weight.
If you’re carrying the binoculars around your neck, we recommend sticking to objectives below 30mm. The added weight of larger objectives can place pressure on your neck, making it feel stiff the following day.
However, you have to keep in mind that going for a 30 or a 30mm objective model might be the right thing to do if you want to protect your neck and back, but it might be the wrong decision if you’re looking for the best performance.
Is Waterproofing and Shock Resistance Important for Hunting Binoculars?
If you’re out in the field, things happen. All you need is to trip over a root while tracking game with your binoculars. As you fall, your initial reaction is to push your hands out forward. As a result, the binoculars smash into the ground, breaking the lenses.
Look for hunting binoculars that offer rubberized, armored coatings for easy grip and shock protection during drops. Rubberized coatings also provide excellent water resistance to your binoculars.
These models also feature gas-purged lens chambers, preventing fogging of the lenses in wet weather conditions. These features are essential for hunting in regions where it rains frequently, or there’s plenty of humidity in the air.
What Are the Best Accessories for Hunting Binoculars?
When picking out your ideal set of hunting binoculars, we recommend looking at the accessories the manufacturer offers with your models. Buying accessories separately drives up the costs of ownership of your new hunting binoculars. Choosing a kit that includes accessories can save you hundreds of dollars.
We recommend looking for accessory kits that include hardcover cases, shoulder and chest straps, rubber casings, and tripods. The more you can get out of the deal, the better.
Hunting Binoculars FAQs
What is the optimal magnification for hunting?
It depends on your hunting needs. If you’re in the woodlands, you won’t need the same range as you do on plains. Choose a model that suits your environment. 10x42mm is one of the most popular choices for an all-round binocular magnification.
What is the maximum range of 10×42 binoculars?
With a 10×42, you get a 10x magnification. You can only see 12-miles or so to the horizon. Therefore, the distance is unimportant. However, what is important is the clarity of the viewing experience, allowing you to see more detail in your targets at a range.
What do the numbers on binoculars mean?
Binoculars come with specifications in numbers, such as 10×42 or 12×50. The first number gives you the reading of the magnification, such as 10x your normal vision capability. The second number refers to the millimeter sizing of the diameter of the objective lens.
What are the most important considerations when selecting binoculars?
When selecting your new set of hunting binoculars, keep these three principles in mind.
- How much can you afford to spend?
- What style of hunting are you doing, and what’s the right magnification for your needs?
Answer those two questions, and you’ll find it easy to figure out the rest.
Hunting Binoculars – The Verdict
By now, you should have a good idea of the best hunting binoculars for your next trip. There’s surely something in this review to suit anyone’s tastes. Yet, even after narrowing down dozens of models to compile this review, there’s still plenty of choices. If you’re having trouble with settling on the right pair of binoculars for your hunting trip, why not go with one of our top picks?
The Nikon 16001 PROSTAFF 7S is our top choice for the best all-rounder model in this review. With the Prostaff, you get a compact and convenient package with high-powered optics and anti-reflective lenses. The durable casing makes it easy to carry anywhere, with excellent drop resistance and waterproofing for all environmental conditions.
If you’re looking for the top model in this review, it’s the Vortex Optics Viper HD. This pair of hunting binoculars come with all the robust features you expect out of top-quality optics. The anti-reflective lenses, compact form-factor, and powerful magnification make it an excellent choice for your hunting trip – if you have the budget.
Hunters looking for an affordable option could settle on the Bushnell H2O Waterproof. This pair of binoculars has almost everything the top models in this review have to offer your hunting with a toughened, waterproof casing, compact design, and excellent magnification.
