How does it feel when your target animal senses your presence and escapes? No good at all, right? This is why it is necessary that you keep your distance from your target animal. They can even smell your presence. But, how do you see them from such a distance, how can you shoot them accurately?
A hunting binocular will help you see your target animal clearly. You will have to be careful when choosing one because there are so many little parts in a binocular making a huge difference in how it serves you. Is a hunting binocular worth it?
Well, now you are buying a binocular, it’ll be the best if you follow my blog and picked one of them from my researched blog.
Things to Consider Before Buying Hunting Binoculars
First, let’s check out the 15 points to look for when selecting the right one.
1. The Magnification of the Binocular
The main reason you are buying a binocular is to see from a distance. For this, the binocular provides you with a certain level of magnification. But, how much magnification do you really need?
It is actually best to settle between magnification of 7X to 10X. You may be thinking why not more? More means bigger, doesn’t it? Well, yes, but you don’t always need more.
Furthermore, the greater the magnification the less steady will be the image. Now, how can you shoot accurately if you see a moving image of your still target?
2. The Objective Size
With the magnification number, you will find another number. It is written in the format “7X42”. So, what does this 42 stand for? Apparently, it represents the size of the objective lens.
The greater this number, the more detail you will be able to see. In fact, an objective lens of 40 to 42 mm is perfect for all kinds of hunting. The greater lens size allows in more light. So, if you want to hunt at night, you will have to consider even greater objective sizes.
You may think that getting a larger objective is always better. But, it comes with its own costs. Apparently, larger objectives are not only more expensive but they are also bulkier and heavier. So, it may weigh you down with fatigue when you are hunting.
3. The Field of View
How wide will the image be when you look through the binoculars? This is the question answered by the Field of View. It is usually expressed in yards, like the Field of view maybe 1500 yards.
The more you zoom, the narrower the image will be. When hunting, you do not always require a greater field of view. However, if you are after fast-moving animals then you may benefit from a great er field of view. So, make sure that the field of view satisfies your seeing needs.
4. The Exit Pupil
The exit pupil mainly determines how much light will enter the binocular and reach your eyes. It is actually determined by the size of the objective and the magnification of the binocular. The greater the size of the exit pupil, the more light will enter the binoculars, this can also improve night time vision.
Now, another way to determine if the exit pupil size is right for you is to see if it’s equal or greater to your pupil size. Apparently, the exit pupil size of a binocular with 10X42 is 4.2mm (42/10). This is how you calculate the exit pupil. It’s usually best if it’s over 5mm.
5. The Prism Type inside
You will find two types of prism inside a binocular- Porro and roof. Apparently, Porro prism is the traditional design. It is where the eyepiece and the prism are not aligned. And, the light has to be reflected four times to reach your eyes.
This is why binoculars with a Porro prism are bulkier in size. On the other hand, the roof prism is the recent design eliminating the extra bulk of the binoculars. It has the prism and the eyepiece aligned so the light does not have to travel a great distance and the binocular is also smaller in size.
6. The Type of Focus
You have to choose from two focus types- individual or center. Apparently, the individual focus lets you focus each of the eyepieces separately. As a result, you will be able to enjoy a more crisp view if your target is at a distance over 30-40 yards.
On the other hand, a central focus is easier to use. But, it is more suitable for focusing within 30 yards. It will not be as accurate as the individual focusing if the target is at quite a distance.
7. The Eye Relief
You have to consider your convenience and comfort when using a binocular, right? What is the point of using a binocular if it cannot let you see clearly by giving you the right to use your glasses? So, do you wear glasses or sunglasses when hunting?
If you d then you have to consider the eye relief the binocular will provide you with. The eye relief basically means the distance between your eyes and the binocular for you to get a view through it. If you wear glasses, the distance should be enough to accommodate your glasses without any trouble.
8. The Optical Coating
Reflections and glares can cause a lot of irritation when you are using a binocular. But, most people who buy great binoculars don’t even experience them. Why? Because the objective of these binoculars come with an optical coating.
This coating prevents reflection and glares. You will able to choose from a number of such optical coatings that provide protection up to different levels. There are coating types like- fully-coated, multi-coated, fully-multi coated, etc.
Some come with a coating on all the optical parts, some on only one lens. The price and performance vary based on such coatings.
Therefore, you should get binocular that has its optical parts coated- it will also add to the durability of the binoculars.
9. The Image quality the binocular provides
At times you will see that despite having the perfect specifications of a high-quality binocular, the performance of the binocular is rather disappointing. It may provide a very blurry zoomed image. Now, that is completely useless when you are hunting, right?
So, how do you save yourself from such a disappointment? Well, you will have to buy binoculars that are not very cheap. Furthermore, you will have to buy from well-know brands because these brands only gained their popularity because of their great services. Finally, check the reviews of the binoculars to find out what the product may fail in providing.
10. The Coating and weather-proof features
It can rain when you are hunting and some water drop may get on your binocular As much as you may try to prevent it- it’s quite a common and expected occurrence. So, the disappointment, in this case, will be a binocular that loses its shine because of the weather.
This is why you should always look for a binocular that is waterproof. Furthermore, what if your binocular accidentally falls from your hands? There are two things you have to consider in this case- firstly, it should provide you with a grip that is quite solid. Secondly, it should have such an exterior coating, that the coating protects the more sensitive parts inside.
Most binoculars have a rubber coating for this purpose. For the grip, you can consider the texture of this coating features.
11. Other Helpful Features
In winter, the binocular may easily get blurry because of the fog. This is why many binocular comes with a fog-resistant feature. Not that it always works, but if it’s a priority, you can check the feature more and get binocular in which it works.
Besides, you can look for more such features that make using the binocular more convenient for you in any weather.
12. The size and weight of the binocular
When you are hunting you are mostly waiting for a long time to come across a prey. So, it can be quite tiring. If you have to carry a heavy binocular while you are at it, it can be even more tiring.
Sometimes your requirements from a binocular force you to choose the heavier ones. But, most of the time, you have the option to choose a lightweight one. So, look around, and look for brands that provide you with greater capacity but lighter weight. Furthermore, compact design is what is currently trending now.
13. Accessories that come with the Binocular
What if you could not find a lightweight binocular with all your required specifications even after looking everywhere for it? Then, you have no other option but to deal with the weight. In this case, the brand itself should make your journey easier by providing you with accessories that help you carry the binocular.
Most binoculars come with straps that you can use to hang it around your neck. If your one comes with a strap then check that it is of high quality and won’t just get detached. Furthermore, it should be comfortable on your neck.
Other than that, the package should include a carrier bag, cleaning cloth, and a number of such accessories that you may need.
14. The Cost Warranty
An expensive binocular will surely come with a warranty. It is actually the warranty that assures you about the quality of the binocular you know that if you experience an untimely problem, the brand will have your back.
Other than that you don’t have to stress about the cost of the binocular too much. Set a budget, and look for what you want, you will find a good quality within your budget. But, don’t settle for the extremely cheap ones. You get what you pay for in this case.
15.The Area you hunt in and the hunter’s recommendations
Even if you buy the most expensive binocular available you may find it not living up to your expectations. The reason is that it may not be compatible with your area of hunting and you. So, consult with other hunters in the area and find out what works best for them. Chances are it will work for you as well.
Best Hunting Binoculars Reviews
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars.
The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD binoculars not only provide you with a great optical unit for hunting but it also makes sure you are comfortable when using it. It is also available at quite a reasonable price.
Optics: it has a magnification of 10x and an objective size of 42 mm. Now, isn’t that the perfect combination for hunting in daylight? Apart from that, the fully multi-coated (FMC) optics will keep all kinds of disturbance away by keeping the reflection in check. On top of that, the prism is of great quality and it does its job well.
Durability: The rubber armor in its exterior makes this binocular quite a durable unit. You will have a good time holding it in your hands as well.
User-friendly: The center focus dial is quite nicely placed making it easy for you to use. However, you may find focusing is not that easy. The binocular react to moving objects a bit too much so focusing is hard.
Convenience: it has a design that makes using it quite convenient for you. Apparently, you can twist the eyecups up as per your wish. The eye relief is also great enough to let you wear eyeglasses easily. The binocular also resists fog buildup so you won’t suffer much. You may feel it is a bit big in your hands for a narrow face.
Overall, it is easy to use binocular that is also capable of providing you with a great quality image.
Pros:
- The binocular is capable of giving a crisp clear view.
- Good magnification, light entrance, and field of view.
- Durable build that is comfortable to hold.
- Adjustable parts that make it convenient for you to use.
- It is quite lightweight.
- Reasonable pricing.
Cons:
- It can be a bit hard to focus.
2. Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binocular
The Bushnell H2O binocular is something that will provide you with a crisp image of what lies in front of you.
Optics: Apparently, this one has a magnification of 10X and an objective size of 42 mm. These two numbers are great for any kind of hunting. The exit pupil is 4.2mm so it allows quite a bit of light but it still is not night vision.
Durability: A non-slip rubber armor covers the exterior part of the binocular making it quite durable. Furthermore, the BAK4 roof prism in it is of high quality as well. The optics are multi-coated so you won’t experience a lot of reflection or glare.
User-Friendly: The binocular is both waterproof and fog-proof. However, it may still fog up a bit. Apart from that, the focus dial is quite big in size and easy to use.
Convenience: Despite the binocular being quite small in size, you may feel that it is a bit heavy. Apart from that, it comes with everything you may need with a binocular. So, ultimately, you get great value for the money as long as the binocular does not fall apart.
Pros:
- The optics are perfect for hunting in many different ways.
- The build is non-slip and durable.
- It is quite easy to focus.
- The eye relief is substantial- you can wear glasses easily.
- Quite portable for its compact size and neck strap.
Cons:
- It may fog up despite being fog proof.
- Can seem a bit heavy.
3. Bushnell Powerview Compact Folding Roof Prism Binocular
The Bushnell Powerview Compact folding binocular is just what it sounds like- compact in size and price. Apparently, it is something beginners will have a good time using.
Optics: The magnification it offers is 8X and the objective size is 21mm. As you can see it does not let a lot of light in so you won’t be able to enjoy a crisp, clear, detailed image of things in front of you. Other than that, it has a 1000-yard field of view.
Durability: It has a robust rubber exterior that will protect the internal sensitive parts well. Apart from that, it has a fully-coated optics so the reflection and glare will be dealt with nicely. The BK-7 prism used in it is great.
User-friendly: The focus dial is quite big in size so you will find it easy to use. However, the results will not be that great because the binocular simply isn’t capable of providing you with a very crisp view.
Convenience: All you really get to do with this binocular is zoom-in. It does not provide any convenience features with him. Apparently, it’s not waterproof nor fog proof. It won’t adapt to a tripod either. You can just consider it a budget-friendly unit for beginners.
Pros:
- It offers good enough magnification.
- A great choice for beginners for the price.
- Quite easy to use.
- It has a robust exterior that won’t be ruined any time soon.
- The prism and optics quality is quite great.
Cons:
- It does not provide a very crisp image.
- Lacks a number of convenience features.
4. Bushnell Trophy Roof Binoculars
The Bushnell Trophy Roof Binoculars are budget-friendly and are totally capable of providing the user with a sharp image of what’s ahead. It also has just the right specifications for being a hunter binocular.
Optics: With a magnification of 10x and an objective size of 42 mm, this binocular os quite the right binocular for hunting. The Fully Multi-coated optics offer you quite a clear image. Furthermore, the light transmission in this binocular is great and it is great for low-light hunting as well.
Durability: it also has just the right build for the wild hunters. The robust rubber exterior will keep the interior safe. Even if it falls somehow, you will find the binocular in good shape. The prism quality I great too- built with the best.
User-friendly: The focus dial is easy to use manually but you may have a tad bit hard time focusing. Apart from that, there are actually better binoculars than this one which provides a better image when focused. But, this one does great for the price range.
Convenience: Although this binocular seems a bit heavy, it is still easy to carry because of the neck strap it comes with. Apart from that, it has good eye relief so you won’t have any trouble using it wearing eyeglasses.
Pros:
- It is quite a good choice for hunting with its optical numbers.
- The build is quite durable.
- It is easy to carry around for long hours.
- Good for low-light hunting.
- Great value for the price.
Cons:
- A bit heavy.
5. Vortex Optics Diamondback 10x42 Roof Prism Binocular.
Vortex Optics Diamondback binocular proves that if a brand believes in its products, it will support you by all means. Apparently, you get a lifetime warranty with this binocular. So, no matter what problem you face, the brand will have your back and fix it for you as it’s their own responsibility.
Optics: It is a 10×42 binocular so you can consider it a good one for hunting. Apparently, it has multi-coated optics so you won’t find a lot of disturbance when using it. Furthermore, it operates well in low lights as well. While the image provided may not be crisp clear as many higher-end binoculars, this one does great at its price point, The prism used in it is also of high quality.
Durability: When a brand is confident enough to provide its product with a lifetime warranty, you know that the binocular is durable. In fact, rubber exterior is of high quality and it protects the binocular well. Furthermore, it provides you with a good grip.
User-friendly: The binocular has a well-placed focus-dial. However, it isn’t that easy to focus. Once you learn to focus it right, you will enjoy sharp images.
Convenience: The binocular is both waterproof and fog proof. Furthermore, it comes with a comfortable neck strap and also a carry case. So, it is quite easy to carry around when hunting. You will find this binocular quite convenient to use.
Pros:
- Excellent customer service.
- Great quality build which is also durable.
- The right magnification and objective size for hunting.
- Allows a lot of light in.
- Convenient to use because of the features added-easy to carry.
- Great value for the price.
Cons:
- A bit hard to focus.
6. Bushnell 334211 Trophy Binocular.
If you want to enjoy better quality at a better price then this Bushnell Trophy binocular might just be the binocular you are looking for. It provides you with just what a hunting binocular should provide.
Optics: It’s another 10×42 binocular that just seems perfect for hunting a wide range of species. Apparently, it has a fully multi-coated lens that allows just the necessary amount of light in while keeping reflections and glares well away from you. The prisms also do a great job of transmitting light.
Durability: the binocular surely has a really durable build with a strong exterior that protects the interior parts well. You can expect it to last quite a while and of course, there is the Bushnell brand with its great reputation. It has a rugged construction that can also absorb shock. So, accidental falls won’t be a problem.
User-Friendly: The binocular comes with two-step twist-up eyecups that center to your needs. Furthermore, the focus dial is very easy to use and you won’t have a hard time when focusing. The closest focus range is 10 feet.
Convenience: This unit is both water and fog proof. Apart from that, it is a bit bulky and on the heavy side. But, the straps and method of carrying it will save you from some of the trouble.
Overall, it provides more than what a binocular at this price is capable of providing.
Pros:
- It provides a clear view of what you zoom in.
- Just the right specification for a good hunting binocular.
- Quite easy to adjust to your needs.
- Easy to focus.
- Good quality rugged build.
- It has the necessary convenience features.
Cons:
- A bit on the heavier side.
7. Nikon Prostaff 7S 10X42 Truetimber Kanati Camo
You have definitely heard the name Nikon at least when checking out cameras. So, you can guess how good it will be in being binocular! These brands just make the power of vision a blessing. If you are looking for a slightly different technology used in a binocular, you can consider this one.
Optics: The good old 10×42 is what this binocular will provide you with for hunting. And, there isn’t much reason to complain, is there? Apparently, this one comes with a phase correcting coating, which is far greater than the other kinds of coating. You will definitely enjoy a non-interrupted clear view of the zoomed-in places. The prism is of high quality as well.
Durability: This binocular is quite a durable unit. It has an ergonomic rubber-armored body. So, no only does it have good protection but it also makes the binocular quite comfortable to hold in hands.
User-friendly: The eyecups will slide and turn for your convenience. So, you can easily adjust this binocular as per your wish. However, you may need your time to focus on it.
Convenience: It is not just lightweight but it comes with its straps and carrying bag too. So, portability won’t be an issue. On top of that, it is fog proof and waterproof, SO, it can handle the weather quite well as well.
Pros:
- It provides quite high-resolution views of the zoomed-in places.
- The phase correction coating helps to transmit light in the best way.
- It is easy to carry because of its size.
- Quite a durable build.
- It has quite a few convenience features.
Cons:
- Can be a bit hard to focus.
8. Nikon Prostaff 7s Binocular 42mm.
Nikon is quite the brand when it comes to making phase-corrected coated binoculars. The binocular is budget-friendly while it provides you with a great quality image of what’s ahead. You will find the binocular a good choice for hunting.
Optics: As you can expect, this one is a 10×42 binocular making it perfect for hunting. The phase correction coating on the optics makes it quite the binocular! Apparently, you will enjoy quite a view with great color and clarity. On top of that, the prism in the binocular is of great quality and it transmits the light really well to your eyes.
Durability: This one has a rubber exterior like many others and the build protects the binocular well. It is so durable that even accidental drops won’t make the binocular suffer much. Along with durability, you enjoy a solid grip too. The glasses are made lead-free and arsenic-free.
User-Friendly: If you wear glasses then you will have a great time using this binocular. Apparently, it has adjustable eye cups with which you can adjust the eye relief as well. Furthermore, it is very easy to focus.
Convenience: When it comes to weight and size, this is quite the portable binocular. Carrying ti around won’t be any trouble. Furthermore, it is both water and fog proof. What you may have some trouble with is the eye caps. Apparently, they fall off easily.
Pros:
- The phase correction coating provides clarity to the images.
- It is quite adjustable and caters to your needs.
- Quite a robust and durable build.
- Easy to focus and zoom.
- Great for hunting with its optical specifications.
- Good value for the price.
- Great convenience features.
Cons:
- The eye caps aren’t that great.
9. Upland Optics Perception HD Hunting Binoculars.
The Upland Optics Perception HD binoculars try to provide you with clarity with its design. Let’s find out what it has that makes it different from others.
Optics: This one has 10X magnification with a 42mm objective size-great for hunting. Apart from that, it comes with ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) Glass. Now, this is there key differentiation point through which it provides the images with clarity. The glass quality is great, the prism is great too. What you may not like is the field of view of this binocular. The close range does not work that well.
Durability: This unit has quite a durable build and it won’t disappoint you in case of durability.
User-Friendly: Because of the trouble with the field of view, you may find focusing this unit a bit hard. But, once focused you enjoy quite a clear view. Apart from that, it is great for those wearing eyeglasses- the eye relief is great.
Convenience: It comes with features like waterproof and fog proof. Furthermore, it is quite compact in size and light in weight to be easily carried around. It includes everything you may need in the package.
Pros:
- It provides quite a clear image.
- The optical specifications are perfect for hunting.
- Easy to carry around.
- Comes with everything you need.
- Great quality builds- each of the parts are of high quality.
- Great value for the price.
- Good adjustability.
Cons:
- It can be hard to focus.
- Some trouble with the field of view.
10. TecTecTec BPRO Wild Camo Binoculars
If you want a binocular that will hide with you then you can try out this Tectectec Camo binoculars. Apparently, it has an exterior with a camouflage print.
Optics: The optical specification of this unit is 10X42 which is just right for hunters. It lets quite a good amount of light in. The FMC optics protect it well from reflections. Furthermore, the BAk-4 Barium prism also does its job quite well. You will enjoy images with great clarity.
Durability: The anti-slip coating protects the binocular well. But, you may still have some quality issues for the price.
User-friendly: The unit is quite easy to focus on. Furthermore, it provides stability as well. The operation is quite smooth.
Convenience: It has a reasonable size and weight. Plus, it comes with all the accessories you need to use it. So, it’s quite easy to carry. Furthermore, it is waterproof.
Pros:
- It provides images with clarity.
- Easy to focus.
- It offers a few convenience features.
- Good quality optical parts.
- A budget-friendly choice for hunters.
Cons:
- Quality issues may occur.
Tips for using Hunting binoculars
In order to get the benefits of your investment, you have to use the hunting binoculars right. Here are a few tips.
Always keep them steady.
Binoculars will e able to aid you better if you keep them steady when holding them. If you are holding it with your hands, keep your hands steady. Otherwise, use a tripod or some other place where you can keep the binocular steady.
Find a vantage point.
You will usually get the best results from a binocular if you use it from a height. From the height, you will get a better view of your terrain. So, find a vantage point from where you can see things clearly without any obstructions.
Just scan and observe.
Do not look for a particular color or animal when scanning with your binocular. Just, scan the area and let any animal or irregular color catch your eyes. You will spot your targets faster this way.
Keep the sun behind you.
What happens when you directly look at the sun? Your eyes water and you can’t see. When using a binocular, you won’t get a clear view or even be able to see if the sun is in front of you. We know what the sun does. So, keep the sun behind you when using a binocular. This way you won’t have to squint your eyes when using the binocular.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are binoculars and how do they work?
Answer: binoculars are objects that you can use to see from a distance, by zooming in. They give you a clear and crisp view of things that are placed at a distance by magnifying it. Apparently, binoculars are like two small telescopes for two of your eyes that are connected by a bridge.
There are lenses in the binocular that receive the light from outside and transmit it inside through another prism. This focuses the distant images and makes them seem bigger to you. You can adjust how the sharpness of the images by focusing the binocular using the focus dial.
- What do the Numbers Mean?
Answer: A binocular with a “10X50” number means that it can magnify the object you are focusing on by 10 times. And the size of the objective is 50mm. This means a fair amount of light will enter through the lens and give you a good view during daylight.
- What Size Lens should I buy?
Answer: Since you are looking for binoculars for hunting, you can settle for 10x 42mm binoculars. Apparently, the objective size of this lens is just perfect for hunting. The magnification is great too.
But, if you want to hunt at night, then you may want a binocular with a higher objective size. Because it needs to let more light in.
Final Words
There’s quite a lot to consider when buying the best hunting binoculars. However, once you understand how they work and what matters, it’s quite easy to choose, But, just the specifications and description is not enough to know how well they actually perform. The reviews are important as they show real-life experience. So, consider everything, research well, and spend your money wisely.
How does it feel when your target animal senses your presence and escapes? No good at all, right? This is why it is necessary that you keep your distance from your target animal. They can even smell your presence. But, how do you see them from such a distance, how can you shoot them accurately?
A hunting binocular will help you see your target animal clearly. You will have to be careful when choosing one because there are so many little parts in a binocular making a huge difference in how it serves you. Is a hunting binocular worth it?
Well, now you are buying a binocular, it’ll be the best if you follow my blog and picked one of them from my researched blog.
How does it feel when your target animal senses your presence and escapes? No good at all, right? This is why it is necessary that you keep your distance from your target animal. They can even smell your presence. But, how do you see them from such a distance, how can you shoot them accurately?
A hunting binocular will help you see your target animal clearly. You will have to be careful when choosing one because there are so many little parts in a binocular making a huge difference in how it serves you. Is a hunting binocular worth it?
Well, now you are buying a binocular, it’ll be the best if you follow my blog and picked one of them from my researched blog.
