Photo by Francis Seura

Originally Posted On: https://huntingheart.com/best-binoculars-for-hunting/

 

For me it took a while before I realized how valuable a separate pair of binoculars are when hunting, I always figured I could use my normal rifle scope for tracking the prey. I was dead wrong. You need those separate binoculars in order to stalk your prey without alerting them that you’re coming. I have no idea how many times I’ve scared away game just from swinging my rifle to look in the scope, it requires too much movement!

Also, you might be using a scope with very little magnification as you’re expecting fast shots, then you cant identify game at any real distance without binoculars. So here is our guide to the best binoculars on the market. Binoculars are valuable to a hunter.  A good pair of binoculars will enable you to identify and adequately distinguish objects that may cross your path. They also improve your chances of successfully following trails in areas that would otherwise be difficult. Investing in a good pair will save you a lot in the long run.

I would always wear binoculars when hunting deer, wild hogs and pronghorn that’s for certain.

Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best Binoculars for Hunting

Magnification

Bigger is not always better when dealing with binoculars. A binocular with a magnification of 7x to 10x would do the job just fine.

The higher the magnification, the lower the steadiness of the image. Steading the binoculars is a hard task, especially after a tiring outdoor activity. Zoom binoculars, on the other hand, tend to overlook the durability of the binocular. You can not use most models with zoom capacity for rough outdoor use.

A significant number of hunters are under the impression that the higher magnification beats its lower counterparts, which is not the case. If you intend to achieve a higher magnification, it would be better to purchase a spotting scope instead.

Objective Size

The larger the objective, the more light you will see. However, a lens of 50mm will be significantly more expensive than one with 40mm but is excellent for hunting in places or hours with considerably low light

The size of the lens determines its weight. If portability is your interest, go for one close to 32mm objective, though the amount of light will be limited.

Objective lenses below 30mm will not be any kind, especially in low light.

Field of View

The field of view refers to the area you will be able to view with your binoculars from 1000yards. The smaller the number, the narrower the view.

Exit Pupil and Relative Brightness Index

The magnification and the objective size determine the size of the exit pupil.  The exit pupil is the number resulting from dividing the objective size by the magnification. You will be able to view more Light when the exit pupil is higher.

Prism Type

Prisms are classified into two major categories; the Porro prism and the roof prisms. The roof prism is more effective than the Porro prism since it can reflect the Light five times. The roof prism is, however, more expensive.

Focus Type

When dealing with a medium or long-distance target, the individual eyepiece focus binoculars give excellent results. An individual focus binocular will be much slower when the target is closer.

Eye Relief

Eye relief is especially crucial for people who use sunglasses or eyeglasses. This is the distance within which the user can position their eyes from the binoculars. If you use glasses, consider choosing models that offer an eye relief of at least 14 to 15mm.  Poor eye relief will result in a smaller field of view.

Optical Coatings

Optical coatings reduce and eliminate light reflection. It eliminates Light loss and glare. Sharper and more precise images come from the quality of your ocular surface.

If the model you prefer has coated optics, it means that at least one lens has been covered with an anti-reflective coating. Other units in the market today are fully coated, fully multi-coated, or multi-coated. Fully Multi coated might prove to be on the higher side for some buyers in that they have received many anti-reflective coatings.

The better the coating, the higher the amount of light you will be getting. If you invest in getting the best binoculars for hunting, you might want to consider spending a bit more and getting a pair that is at least multi-coated.

Best Low Light Binoculars

Vortex Optics Razor HD Binoculars

 

The Vortex Razor HD 10×50 Binocular uses plasma technology.  Its body is made from magnesium alloy, hence lighter than its counterparts.

It has an ultra-hard coating that is scratch resistant and an Armor Tek that shields the external lenses from oil, dirt, and scratches. The binoculars also features excellent surface, high performance, and unbeatable durability.

It works perfectly in rough terrains and harsh conditions since it is waterproof, and its quality is top-notch.

For low light conditions, the 50mm objective model is the most recommended.

Owing to its lightness, it is easier to carry around, especially for users who intend to use it for an extended period.

Features 

• APO System
• Waterproof/Fog proof
• Rubberized Armor
• Magnesium Chassis
• Roof Prism
• Tripod Adaptable
• Adjustable Eyecups
• Plasma Technology
• 10x magnifying power
• 50 mm objective lens

Pros

• Lightweight hence easy to manage
• Clear, crisp images
• Unbeatable performance
• Wide field of view
• Waterproof
• Durable

Cons

• You must hold it steady as it does not come with an anti-shake feature.

 

Are Low Light Binoculars Effective?

Low light binoculars are an essential part of your gear when for hunting or on any nature experience where it gets dark.

The best time to view animals in their natural habitat is usually dusk or dawn. However, it is generally too dark and almost impossible to see anything. The binoculars come in handy for situations such as this.

These binoculars are also of great benefit to trail hikers who go into dense forests and dark caves.

Low light binoculars magnify the ambient Light and the image to produce a line of sight in poor lighting conditions. The higher the magnification power of the lens, the lower the steadiness of the picture. Consequently, when the diameter of the objective lens is large enough, there is a lot more detail in your view that is visible.

When shopping for excellent low light binoculars, it is wise to put some factors into careful consideration.

For instance, you may want to determine the scope you can view when looking through the binoculars, the diameter of the objective lens, and the power of its magnification.

Best Value Binoculars for Hunting

Nikon Prostaff 5 Binoculars

In terms of affordability, the Nikon Prostaff 5 Binoculars is among the most affordable binoculars in the market. They are commonly referred to as the bargain binoculars.

It is worth noting that despite its low prices, its quality remains uncompromised.  It also features adjustable eyecups, making it easy to use for those that use glasses as well as those that do not.

Its exterior is made of reinforced fiberglass resin. This reduces its weight while at the same time, increasing its durability.

The lenses are waterproof and made of eco glass, an environment-friendly material that provides an excellent view.

 Features

• Multilayer-coated lenses
• Body reinforced with fiberglass-polycarbonate resin
• Long eye relief design
• 10x magnification
• 50mm objective lens
• 815g weight
• It has a minimum of 5m focusing distance
• Rubberized armoring
• Waterproof and also fog proof
• Easy to manipulate rubber eyecups

Pros

• Fiberglass body reinforced with  resin
• Environment friendly
• Eco-glass lenses
• Adjustable eyecups
• Extremely affordable price

Cons

• Has a relatively narrower field of view

Buy this pair of binoculars on Amazon.

Best Binoculars for Hunting Under 100

Nikon ACULON 8×42 Binoculars 

The Nikon Aculon 8×42 Binoculars was unveiled in the year 2013. This model has since become a favorite of many binocular users due to its model and design. It features 8-power multilayered lenses and objective lenses of 42mm. It has been manufactured with the environmentally friendly eco glass, which research has shown to be an arsenic fee.

Owing to its BaK4 Porro prism model, it produces high-quality images in any kind of lighting, whether little or more. This allows users to engage it at whatever time of the day, including but not limited to dawn or dusk.

Sophisticated Design 

The Nikon Aculon 8×42 Binoculars is a great pick for nature enthusiasts and those who find delight in bird watching or sight-seeing.

However, the sharp focus it projects makes it suitable for hunters as well. A hunter can follow a trail even in the thick thickets where the dense canopies may be blocking natural light from reaching the ground.

Along with their cost-effectiveness, they are sturdy and provide high-quality performance to their users.

With the ever-increasing brands providing products in the market today, it may become tedious to identify the best brand to pick. It is advisable to check the suitability of a product and your specific needs, including financial, before settling on a given product.

To that effect, to enable informed judgment, we have compiled below a list of critical features of this fantastic yet pocket-friendly binoculars.

 Features of the ACULON A211 8×42 

• Multilayer-coated lenses that increase transmission of light.
• And eco-glass lenses that bring more transparent images and hence reduce distortion of the picture.
• Aspherical lenses.
• The rubberized exterior which facilitates for the resistance of shock contact and slipperiness.
• It can be used comfortably with a tripod.
• Easy to operate rubber eyecups, which are manipulated by turning and sliding. This makes it easier and comfortable for the user to determine their eye point.

Why Should You Buy the Nikon Aculon 8×25?

Best Value for Your Money

Despite the value it offers to its users, these binoculars are some of the most affordable in the marketplace today. However, it is essential to note that the prices may vary with the retailer, the choice of accessories,      and the purchase location. Stores such as Amazon offer a high price for this amazing gadget that will remain in use for quite some time.

25 Year Warranty

This product comes with a 25-year guarantee of warranty.  Sometimes a user may discover that this product is faulty without their interference. This allows the user to return it to the store and have it replaced or repaired by the manufacturer at no extra cost. This goes a long way in ensuring the user’s confidence in the product.

They are Lightweight.

With a total weight of approximately 755g, they offer the user a light, natural to carry and manage advantage. This allows users that intend to use these binoculars for prolonged periods, comfort at its best.

Multilayered Eco-Glass Lenses

With this, you are guaranteed of maximum utility and high-quality images. They are manufactured with the best spherical multilayered eco glass, enhancing regulation of Light. This way, they can produce crisp and clear images, whether it is dawn or dusk. This is especially useful when hunting in the forest with dense canopies that limit penetration of Light.

Flexible, Easy to Manipulate Rubberized Eyecups

Flexible eyecups allow the user to position themselves comfortably for longer periods without getting fatigued. In addition to this, the user can catch views from various angles.

A Centrally Positioned Focus Knob

This feature allows the binoculars to be flexible in that they can easily be repositioned to different angles. This results in precise and sharp focus.

Rubber Armor

A rubberized exterior suitably fits this model of binoculars. In addition to a good grip when holding it, the smooth feel allows for firmness when handling the binoculars. This is critical in wet conditions. The rubber also protects the binoculars from cuts and scratches possible when outdoors.

Perfect Zoom Quality

With power lenses of 8×42, this model has excellent zooming capabilities and will precisely produce clear images even when taken from long distances. It features a zoom fingertip button, which allows a user to zoom in as they are viewing. This feature is, however, available exclusively on zoom models.

Tripod Mount

This is an amazing accessory that eliminates any possibility of fatigue. At the bottom of these binoculars, you will find a tripod mount port. This enables you to mount the tripod stand and not have to hold them up to your face every time you want to view it. For hunters, this is critical as it allows on to use their tools of hunting comfortably.

The Eyepiece Lever

On the eyepiece is a level that enables one to reposition the binoculars to 140m over an area of 1000m. This reduces the chances of compromising your view since you can view it from any angle.

The Lens Cap

A binocular’s most essential part is the lens. Protecting this piece is crucial. A lens cap is a component of the binoculars that covers each eye. These caps protect the lenses from damage from harsh weather or rough terrain, resulting in scratches or breakage.

Color

The magnificent black on these binoculars is lovely. It is an attractive color that serves to show the professionalism of this exquisite design.

Additional accessories that are offered alongside these binoculars are beautiful carrying cases, and a neck strap that allows them to hang their binoculars, when not in use, on the neck.

However, the tripod adapter can be acquired with additional costs. You can buy it from registered Nikon distributors or various other stores that may be distributing them.

Cons

• There are better binoculars out there but for this money it’s really a ton of value.

FAQs

How much should I spend on binoculars?

Usually, a reasonable amount to get yourself a decent pair of binoculars can be between $100 and $500. However, other, more expensive brands offer better quality and carefully consider your specific needs and what it has to offer before deciding the amount you spend. It is worth noting that expensive does not always translate to quality. Some brands may be cheaper but offer everything you need on a pair of optics.

What should I look for when buying binoculars?

When buying a pair of binoculars, carefully consider your specific needs. For instance, birdwatchers have particular brands that are best suited for it, and each type of hunting may require a different model. Travelers may be more fulfilled carrying small, handy binoculars that they can quickly move around with.

Some other facts you can consider are:

• Magnification
• Entry Level.
• Waterproofing
• Field of View
• Objective Lens Diameter.
• Lens Quality, Coating
• Weight & Eye Strain
• Mid-range

Are Vortex binoculars any good?

It is my opinion that the sharpness and contrast of an image are excellent, given the price. You will discover that they “look through” brush more clearly to spot otherwise hidden games. The color is often typically unique and authentic. It is unlikely to realize any chromatic errors or distortion with brands such as the Vortex Diamondback binoculars.

Which is the best magnification for binoculars?

The best binoculars for hunting applications are 7x to 10x. For long-range shooting, such as varmint hunting, the best magnification would be a 12x to 16x magnification. You will require to use a tripod stand, for larger magnification, or to stabilize the binoculars since the image might be shaky if used when in a standing position.

Who makes the best binoculars for hunting?

Bushnell, Vortex and Nikon, for example these fantastic binoculars:

• Vortex Optics Viper HD 10×42 Hunting Binoculars.
• Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Binoculars. 
• Bushnell Trophy XLT 234210 Hunting Binoculars.
• Nikon Prostaff 7s 16003 Binoculars for Hunting.

Conclusion

Purchasing the right pair of binoculars designed for hunting may take more effort than expected. You must research extensively for available models in the market. You might also need to consider details of the optics before making the sale.

Some of the things you might want to consider are; the eye relief, the magnification, and the diameter of the objective lens, the focus and prism types, and the field of view. You might also want to consider the weight, quality, and durability since it will be exposed to harsh weather conditions outdoors.