help on hunting binos?

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ruger22

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I would like some advice on general use hunting binos?
I have an older set of vortex vipers.
Feel it may be time for an upgrade...

I have a very good quality range finder, so do not need the binos that do both.

My 8 x 42's have never seem underpowered.
But sometimes it is "where did that spot go"
Ideal for me would be the less common 7 x 42.

What features would you look for in hunting binos?
In the $1000 to $1800 range what is great bank for the buck?

thanks
 
Go and look through as many as you can. I don't think anyone can pick out what you'll like best.
 
MiG25 said:
Go and look through as many as you can. I don't think anyone can pick out what you'll like best.
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If the store would let me take a Leica Ultravid 32 HD-Plus and Zeiss conquest HD to the field I would love to compare them to my Vipers. LOL

I find it tough to measure optics in a store under Fluorescent Lights.

The guys I have hunted lately use much less than my older vipers.
And do not spend much time each day glassing.
 
If you want me to tell you what to do, save some more money and buy the Swarovski 8.5x42's.

I have a Leica APO 65 spotting scope and after looking through a Swarovski HD I have the buyers remorse.
 
You won't regret the swarovskis!! I have the 10x42's and they are definitely a step up. Be patient and watch for sales they do come along. When buying optics spend more than you want....you will not regret that.

Look at it as a long term investment that's how I did it. My last pair of binos where the Steiner predators (old model) and cost about $1300 at wholesale when I purchased them....they lasted me 12 years before I figured I needed to upgrade...so they cost me about $108 a year...... A little easier to justify that way. Oh ya they still are in use...my oldest son now uses them.

But definatley listen to the other responses too......try as many pairs as you can and compare for yourself.
 
I never hunted binos. But if I was going to, I would look at a 7x57, I think that would do it.
 
After years and years, I've decided 10x 42s are hard to beat. Lots of good glasses in the 500. range, not all of us can afford the Zeiss or Swarovski. ;)

Grizz
 
7x35 are a very nice compromise and pleasant to hold/view through for extended periods. 6x,30 are also nice if you can find a good set...Swarovski used to make a 'habicht' porroprism 6x,30 and they are very nice to use.
 
Low light conditions will show you the most difference between mid and high end binos, if the store is open later try to be looking outside at close to closing time. Swaro , Zeiss and Leica all have a different feel and color correction , find what looks good to your eyes. Flatness of field will lessen eye strain from long glassing sessions. Buy as much a you can afford, you'll never regret good glass .......
 
jenn7210 said:
Low light conditions will show you the most difference between mid and high end binos, if the store is open later try to be looking outside at close to closing time. Swaro , Zeiss and Leica all have a different feel and color correction , find what looks good to your eyes. Flatness of field will lessen eye strain from long glassing sessions. Buy as much a you can afford, you'll never regret good glass .......
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This.

I looked through a bunch of high quality binoculars and Leica glass really worked for my eyes. I couldn't be happier with my decision.

Try as many as you can, what may look best for one person may not be right for another.
 
Grizzly Adams said:
After years and years, I've decided 10x 42s are hard to beat. Lots of good glasses in the 500. range, not all of us can afford the Zeiss or Swarovski. ;)

Grizz
Click to expand...

I sold 6 rifles to buy my spotting scope. I know several guys with dozens of rifles who have crappy binoculars.

Not saying this is you.

I'd rather hunt with a $200 rifle and a $2500 binocular than the other way around.
 
I like older 1970s Japanese 7x35 Bushnell binoculars. Light, clear and bright.
 
MD said:
I like older 1970s Japanese 7x35 Bushnell binoculars. Light, clear and bright.
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Got a pair, sold as Baush and Lomb, top of the line American made binoculars in their day, think I paid about 400. for them then. Heavy as hell, technology and manufacturing have come a long ways since then. So has value for money.

Grizz
 
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