Before buying a hunting binocular, it is necessary to know first the exact purpose of it. It is vital that you are aware what specifically will you use it for.
Knowing where you will mainly use your binocular is important because each has its own different features that are fit for a specific activity.
While it might seem like a one size fits all type of deal, there are actually different types and optics that are more suited for specific purposes. From bird watching to hunting, it is important to use the right type so as to optimize the usage experience.
For example, the binocular that you use for travelling may not be the best option for deer hunting. In the same way, your elk hunting binocular will do no good for concerts or stargazing.
Table Of ContentsTop rated hunting binoculars: Vanguard Spirit XF 10×42Bushnell Bear Grylls 10 x 42mmNikon 8248 Aculon A211 10 x 50Vortex Optics Vulture Hd 15 x 56 BinocularWhat to look for in a good hunting binocular?Objective lensPrism typeOptical CoatingsImage qualityBinocular AccessoriesWhat Do Numbers Mean For Binoculars?The Best Binoculars For Glasses WearersSnypex Knight 8X42 D-ED BinocularBest Hunting Binoculars for the Money?The Best Hunting Binoculars under 100The Best Hunting Binoculars under 200The Best Binoculars With Range FindersCarl Zeiss Optical Inc Victory RF Binoculars (10×45 T RF)The Best Night Vision Hunting BinocularsNight Owl Pro Night Vision BinocularThe Best Binoculars For Hunting a Turkey
Choosing your options, though, may be a bit difficult especially when you encounter technical terms like field of view, magnification, objective size, armouring, image quality, lens coating, eye relief and prism type. It will be better if you check out our hunting binoculars reviews to see their comparisons.
For those who are looking for binoculars for hunting, take a look at three of the top rated hunting binoculars in the market.
Vanguard Spirit XF 10×42
Vanguard Spirit XF 10×42
- long-arrow-rightBak4 phase-coated prisms
- long-arrow-rightTextured rubber armor
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Rating |
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4.3 |
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Field of View |
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332ft |
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Weight |
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1.5lbs |
Pricing & ReviewsPricing & Reviews
Bushnell Bear Grylls 10×42
Bushnell Bear Grylls 10×42
- long-arrow-right100% waterproof
- long-arrow-rightNon-slip rubber armor
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Rating |
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4.5 |
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Field of View |
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305ft |
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Weight |
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1.6lbs |
Pricing & ReviewsPricing & Reviews
Aculon A211 10×50
Aculon A211 10×50
- long-arrow-rightTurn-and-Slide Rubber Eyecups
- long-arrow-rightcentral focus knob
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Rating |
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4.6 |
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Field of View |
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341ft |
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Weight |
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2.79lbs |
Pricing & ReviewsPricing & Reviews
Top rated hunting binoculars: Vanguard Spirit XF 10×42
This binocular is perfect for any hunting activity that you plan to do, whether it may be patiently stalking a deer or actively pursuing a duck.
The great news is that this binocular does not cost too much, but it does not lack in quality and features unlike other budget-friendly ones.
The Vanguard Spirit XF 10×42 comes in an open bridge design which makes it a lot easier to carry around, an excellent feature especially when you are hunting. You can just hold it with one hand while you bring your gun with the other.
This binocular has also a light weight, weighing only 23.5 oz. Although there are many lighter ones out in the market, the Vanguard Spirit XF 10×42 is really light for the performance that it gives.
The best feature of this binocular is the wide field of view it offers. It delivers an amazing 332-ft. depth of field. With this view, you will be able to scan a wide area without missing any detail.
Bushnell Bear Grylls 10 x 42mm
This binocular may look a bit tacky on the outside because of the orange band and the Bear Grylls logo placed on the side. However, do not be fooled by it as this binocular is packed with lots of features that any outdoor enthusiast will surely love.
The Bushnell Bear Grylls 10 x 42mm provides you with a very clear image of your target at all times despite the conditions that you are in. Now, you do not need to worry about missing your shot because it is foggy or you are in the water.
This binocular is priced just over a hundred dollars with regular discounts if you buy from Amazon.
Nikon 8248 Aculon A211 10 x 50
Nikon is a well-established brand in lenses and optics. The Aculon A211 10×50 is an affordable model from Nikon which boasts of its 50 objective size, much greater than those of the previous binoculars mentioned.
With this objective size, the binocular will be able to absorb more light which will produced better picture quality even under low light conditions. You do not have to worry anymore if you are hunting under covered areas or during dusk or dawn.
However, this binocular is a bit larger compared to the other two. This may be a bit difficult as the added bulk may hinder your stalking pace. This is more ideal for those who are hiding or sitting in a blind the whole day.
Vortex Optics Vulture Hd 15 x 56 Binocular
These are great for their affordable price point. They are sleek and usable whether one is in active pursuit of an animal or staked out waiting for one to appear.- The open bridge makes them incredibly easy to carry around. They are incredibly light, and the optics are crystal clear and great for hunting.
- The field of view is amazing, and the best part about them. They offer a wide field of view, and 332-foot field of depth.
- The field of view, when paired with the fact that they are easy to hold with only one hand, means there is no denying that these are some of the best on the market.
- Online customer reviews state that they are built well, incredibly durable, and easily compare to the much more expensive Nikon Monarchs.
What to look for in a good hunting binocular?
Light Conditions
Usually, hunting or stalking is done during dusk or dawn because these are the times when animals are moving about. It is then important to consider these low light conditions when buying a binocular.
To ensure that you get good quality view despite the dark conditions, you need a binocular that has an objective size between 42 and 50. A large objective size will allow more light to go into the binocular which, in turn, produces clearer images.
However, this is not the only thing that you should consider when looking for a binocular. You should also decide whether it will be handy to carry around especially when you are stalking a game.
With this, you may have to compromise to fit whatever you need for your binocular. Find the balance so that you will not have to sacrifice anything in the end.
Check Your Budget
There are several pairs that offer best quality. There are some great options available at all price points to help customers find the best binoculars for the money.
It is crucial to find the right ones with which to go hunting, because the wrong ones can significantly cripple the outcome of a hunting trip.
Best Binocular Brands
There are many brands out in the market, but it will be best if you stick to big brands like Vortex, Bushnell, Vanguard and Nikon as they are trusted by serious hunters. You surely will not be disappointed if you use them in your stalking and hunting.
Field of View
Another factor to consider in reviews is the field of view. This is the amount of space that the hunting binocular lenses encompass when looking through them.
For hunting, one will want a pair with a wide field of view. This allows users to look through the lenses and see a wide range of hunting ground, as opposed to a narrow one, which is best for uses such as bird watching. When using binoculars with a wide field of view, users look through and see much of the terrain in which they are hunting.
The field of view in any optics allows them to notice small movements as well as larger animals, and also helps them to better know where and how to aim in order to optimize the outcome of their hunting trip.
Weight of the binoculars
It is also important to take into consideration that hunter has to carry a lot of other stuff and not only the binoculars on a hunting trip, so the weight of everything you carry matters.
While a weightier pair might be ideal for a sedentary activity such as stargazing, heavy ones will only weigh the user down when they have to be mobile and carry a pack.
However, Most of the best rated binoculars are designed in order to be easily carried in a pack or around the neck of the user.
Objective lens
Objective size is another quality to take into consideration when looking to buy the best-rated binoculars from the rest. The larger the objective size, the more details you see.
However, you should be ready to spend some more money on optics with a large objective lens as compared to those with a small objective size.
Prism type
The best budget binoculars come in two prism designs, roof prism, and Porro prism design. Binoculars with the roof prism design have a slim frame, and they are light in weight.
However, the binoculars are more expensive than the Porro prism. On the other hand, binoculars with the Porro prism design are cheap but quite bulky.
Optical Coatings
Some binoculars’ objective lenses are coated with anti-reflective coatings to eliminate light reflection that can compromise the quality of images focused. Uncoated objective lenses have a reduced focusing ability.
Image quality
Image quality is another attribute you should evaluate before you purchase hunting binoculars. The best binoculars should have a fair image quality that can let you distinguish the images focused.
Binocular Accessories
The best hunting binoculars should come with a limited set of accessories like straps for hanging binoculars on your neck, a storage case that lets you carry the binoculars conveniently, and a body harness.
What Do Numbers Mean For Binoculars?
Ever wondered what the set of numbers used to identify the best binoculars for hunting mean? If yes, you need not worry since we have a solution to your answer.
- The first number indicates your binocular’s magnification power.
- The second number is the size of your optics’ objective lens, expressed in millimeters.
The Best Binoculars For Glasses Wearers
What problems do glasses wearers face while hunting?
Most binoculars have a short eye relief that can hardly accommodate eyeglasses. As such, if you are a glass wearer you will have to remove them before using the binoculars, otherwise you will not get a clear image.
If this has been your problem, then you would want to shop around for binoculars whose eyecups are specially designed for hunters who wear glasses. The unique eyecups are long enough to facilitate easy eye positioning for glass wearers.
Snypex Knight 8X42 D-ED Binocular
Snypex Knight is one of the best hunting optics for glass wearers and is constructed from a lightweight but sturdy magnesium/ aluminum alloy to last long if not a lifetime. The binocular’s sturdy frame is rubber armored to provide you with a firm grip.
Furthermore, Snypex Knight hunting binoculars are nitrogen filled to make them water and fog proof. In fact, you can submerge the binoculars in water for fifteen minutes without effect.
Some of the specs that make Snypex Knight Waterproof among the best hunting optics include:
- A long eye relief that is ideal for glass wearers
- A 25-year warranty
- A large aperture apochromatic
- 42mm objective lens size
- A reasonable magnification of 8X
- Fully multi-coated optics that offers a full field of view.
Best Hunting Binoculars for the Money?
In as much as hunting binoculars are essential additions to a hunting kit, most hunters shy away from securing the right binoculars due to the optic’s exorbitant price.
If this has been your problem for you, i have got some really good options for you.
The Best Hunting Binoculars under 100
Despite the low price, this compact binocular is constructed from a sturdy frame with a rugged rubber armoring that provides a firm grip even in wet conditions. The sturdy shell is also 100 percent waterproof.
Some of the notable specs that make up this durable binocular include:
- A zoom magnification of 10-22X
- 50mm objective lens
- 199- 126 feet Field of View
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Fold down eyecups
The features above collaborate to give you a broad and bright view that is necessary for any hunter who would not want to miss out his target. You can use the binoculars with a tripod.
Bushnell binoculars have a lifetime manufacturer warranty that covers you against the costs of repair that are associated with manufacturing blemishes.
The Best Hunting Binoculars under 200
Vortex Optics Crossfire binoculars would be another great value investment for hunters who are looking for a budget friendly but feature- rich binoculars.
This optic is ranked among the best Vortex binoculars for the money currently selling in the market. It comes in 8 x 42mm and 10 x 42mm styles.
The Vortex Optics features the roof prism design that eliminates the unnecessary weight that can strain your neck when carrying the binoculars or your hands when using them.
This design also offers a great optical precision as compared to prism binoculars.
Vortex Optics binoculars are designed to last longer and they are resistant to external elements like water and dust, which can compromise your Vortex Optics efficiency. The binoculars have an aesthetically pleasing forest green color finish.
Some of the notable specs that make up the Vortex Optics include:
- Fully multi-coated lenses for enhanced optical quality
- Vortex Optics have a reasonable 42mm objective lens that offers an excellent subject acquisition
- Model eye relief adjustment
- 7X or 10X magnification
Vortex Optics come with a hassle free lifetime manufacturer warranty. Therefore, if your binoculars become defective, the manufacturer will repair them at no charge.
In addition to the manufacturer warranty, it also comes in a package containing a bonus neck strap, a soft carry case, lens caps, and a lens cloth.
The Best Binoculars With Range Finders
What is a rangefinder?
A rangefinder is a device that uses laser, ultrasonic, or radar technologies to measure the distance from your location to that of your target game.
What advantages does a rangefinder give to a hunter?
A rangefinder is a great tool for hunters who wish to their shooting skills because it eliminates guesswork thereby helping you make a clean shot. A rangefinder also saves you from shooting something different.
Carl Zeiss Optical Inc Victory RF Binoculars (10×45 T RF)
If you have been wishing for the best high power binoculars for hunting to use alongside your rangefinder, then Carl Zeiss’ RF binoculars would be the ideal option for you.
Despite their high price, these binoculars come with a plethora of features that will take your hunting skills to a next level.
Some of the useful features that differentiate these hunting binocular from its cheap competitors include:
- The super lightweight eliminates the discomfort associated with the use of bulky binoculars for a prolonged time.
- An excellent magnification power of 10X
- An objective size of 45mm
- An onboard calculator
- 15.5mm eye relief
- A lifetime warranty on optical components
The Best Night Vision Hunting Binoculars
What problems do hunters face at night?
Hunting at night can be quite cumbersome for hunters who lack the right night vision hunting accessories. This is because one can hardly spot the game in darkness and the lucky hunter who locates the game has high chances of missing the target.
How can a good night vision hunting binocular help?
A good night vision hunting binocular is designed with a large size objective lens to amplify all available light to provide you with an image even when hunting in darkness.
The night vision binoculars should also have an infrared illuminator that provides additional light when hunting in pitch-dark settings.
Night Owl Pro Night Vision Binocular
Night Owl’s night vision binocular is designed from a robust frame that can survive the wear resulting from regular use and a soft- touch rubberized finish that delivers a firm but comfortable grip.
The night vision binocular features a big light swallowing 50mm objective lens, quality image intensifiers, and infrared illuminator that lets you view your target when hunting at night or in a low light intensity setting.
Some of the specs that make up these best-rated binoculars include:
- A pair of quality first generation intensifier tubes
- 5X magnification power
- Impact resistant thermoplastic lens
- Adjustable interocular distance centers
- A padded neck strap
The Best Binoculars For Hunting a Turkey
Bushnell’s ultra HD roof prism binocular comes in black and camo colors to let you choose the binocular that matches well with your hunting attire. The binocular is constructed from a lightweight but sturdy chassis to last long.
Besides its durability, the ultra HD roof prism binocular is also resistant to water and fog.
Therefore, the HD binocular is an excellent deal for those rainy or foggy conditions. Its rubber finish gives you a tight grip even when your hands are wet.
Bushnell’s binocular comes with a bonus carrying case to store your valued asset, a neck strap, and microfiber carry bag to transport the binocular conveniently.
The top specs that make up this binocular are:
- The water-repellent lens coating
- 10X magnification power
- A 42mm objective lens
- Wideband coatings
Conclusion
The best hunting binoculars let you scout your target game from a distance, and they let you shoot the correct prey.
However, if you want to reap these benefits, you must become knowledgable and know what is it that you exactly need in order to step up your game for your outdoor hunting endeavors.
We can rest assure you , At That Binocular Guy, our reviews are consistent, fair, and always look out for the wallets of our customers.
What to look for in a good hunting binocular