Choice of optics; binocs not discussed much

[vpsalin]

Is it just me or the choice of binocs seems to be 90% of every hunter's afterthought? I love all outdoor related gear, be it guns, scopes, ammo, gps, knives, multitools, flashlights, etc. But good binoc information seems harder to come by then the rest and there seems to be way less discussions about them. Is it because they're considered geeky or less ###y then the rest of gear to talk about?

I decided to get into hunting in part because I both love the outdoors AND I"m kind of a gear geek. I knew hunting would expose me to both and allow me to learn alot of new technical stuff which I love, so hunting seemed like a perfect fit for me.

But I'm curious, why do u think binocs are such an overlooked part of most hunters' gear? Do they expect to get by with just their rifle scopes, are binocs too complicated for the average joe, are binocs just overrated as a whole or are my assumptions just wrong?

 

[bearkilr]

For hunting, I believe high quality binocs are far more important than a top of the line scope, simply for the fact you look through them more often and for a lot longer stretches at a time. In regard to brightness, most scopes work well enough during legal hunting hours to permit a shot. I've found I lose sight of the reticle on many scopes long before I lose sight of the target itself. I also use my binocs to scout and identify, not my scope. I think most hunters don't realize how bad their bargain binocs are until they look through a premium set in field conditions. I splurged on a set of Leica's many years ago and never looked back. I see your point though. Some guys will spend $1500 on a scope and use a set of $200 Bushnells, I don't get it.
For reviews, the bird watcher websites are the place to look.