Nowadays, with such a vast range of products existing on the market, it is often difficult to choose carefully your binoculars. If you're having trouble selecting the best pair of hunting binoculars , we're here to help.
One of the first tips we can give you is to read and collect as much information as you can on the net. Review comments from past customers, pay attention to the product description and do some research on the brand.
Make sure to match your needs and preferences with the features you are looking for in your new hunting binoculars. Estimate your budget and analyze your options accordingly.
In this article we have examined binoculars for all budgets, from $100 to $500 and even high-end hunting binoculars at more than $1000.
If you are in a hurry you can use the below summary to quickly access the detailed analysis of each model that we recommend. Here is a little taste with our three favorites.
Bushnell Trophy 10x42
Prism system - Roof
Waterproof and anti-fog
Before presenting our selection of the best hunting binoculars, it is imperative to take an overview of the criteria to consider when choosing your equipment.
There are very good pairs of binoculars dedicated to hunting on the market. Above all, they are available at prices that suit all budgets.
But how are you supposed to differentiate one product from another? One way to do this is to consider the following 10 features and pick the ones that are most important to you!
1 - Magnification
It is often said that the bigger it is, the better, but this is not always the case when it comes to hunting binoculars. While having some magnification is extremely important for locating and tracking targets, having too much can cause image stability issues. In general, a magnification of 7 to 10 times should be sufficient for the needs of most hunters.
If you think you need a higher magnification, we strongly recommend that you take a look at some tracking glasses, more suitable for your needs.
2 - Lens size
The size of the lens is the second number you see when researching a pair of hunting binoculars. For example, 7 × 40 refers to a 7x magnification with a 40mm lens. The larger the lens, the more details you will be able to see.
However, the disadvantages of larger lenses are that they tend to be more expensive and heavier. A safe bet is to opt for a 40 or 42 mm objective. If you are hunting at night or in low light conditions, you may want something bigger.
3 - Field of view
The field of view of binoculars is the widest dimension that can be seen and it is measured in meters. The higher the number, the larger the area you can see using your binoculars. It goes without saying that when you use magnification, the image size is reduced and so is the field of view.
If you plan to use your binoculars in open places like a valley, a higher field of viiew will be helpful. In addition, a wide field of view makes it easier to aim and chase a moving target.
4 - Focus
There are 3 types of focus to consider when talking about hunting binoculars. First, there is individual focus. In this case, each telescope is focused independently. Second, we have the central focus.
This typically consists of a large focusing wheel which is located in the center of the binoculars. By turning this dial, the two telescopes are focused at the same time.
Finally, binoculars without focusing do not require adjustment. This is ideal for medium distances, but not for short or long distances.
5 - Eye relief
When you wear glasses or sunglasses, eye relief plays an essential role in the use of your binoculars. This is especially the case when you are hunting.
If the ocular relief is insufficient, a person will only see the center of the image while the field is restricted. If you are likely to wear glasses, be sure to look for at least 14 to 15 mm of eye relief.
6 - Optical coating
One of the most annoying things when using hunting binoculars is the reflection of the resulting light. This can hinder the pursuit of targets when they are in the field. Fortunately, optics with special coatings offer a perfect solution.
They are located on the glass surface of the lens and help reduce or eliminate light loss or glare. The result is brighter, clearer images that can make all the difference when hunting or hunting deer, wild boar or game. Look for hunting binoculars that are fully multi-layered. In our opinion, this feature is well worth paying more for.
7 - Image quality
Image quality comes down to the sharpness and clarity of your eyesight. The quality you get is strongly linked to your budget. Of course, it is not necessarily essential to have excellent image quality.
Most moderately priced hunting binoculars will for the most part be more than enough. But if you hunt very regularly, travel in all weathers (for example in low light) and have a substantial budget, you should opt for the best optics that you can afford.
8 - Size and weight
Full size hunting binoculars can be quite heavy and weigh up to 1 kg or more! This is not ideal for hunters who like to travel light, especially when going out for a whole day. One of the biggest factors regarding the weight of hunting binoculars is the type and amount of glass.
The larger the objective lens, the heavier the binoculars, although larger binoculars tend to be more powerful. If the transport of bulky binoculars puts you off, you can always turn to more compact binoculars.
9 - Sealing
Do you plan to hunt in a variety of weather conditions? Even if it's not the case, time can sometimes take you by surprise. The last thing we want are binoculars that can't take a little water!
It is therefore important to look for waterproof binoculars. This will prevent not only water from entering, but also dirt and debris.
Now that you know all the parameters to take into account when buying hunting binoculars, we let you discover our selection of the best hunting binoculars 2020.
The best hunting binoculars 2020 - tests and detailed reviews
Vortex Optics Viper HD
This model of the Vortex Optics brand is one of the highest rated products in the range, which is not surprising given the number of characteristics it has. These hunting binoculars have O-rings allowing it to protect against any type of intrusion such as debris or humidity. Thus, the device is both anti-fog and waterproof.
This model is entirely covered with several layers which offers excellent image quality thanks to its high density and very low dispersion glass.
These binoculars are light and have a compact design to facilitate handling and use when traveling. BaK-4 prisms also give you a clear and sharp view. Additionionally, the product comes with a padded neck strap, carrying case and lens covers, and rain protection, making it one of the highest rated binoculars for hunting.
The Vortex Optics Viper HD 10 × 42 breaks the bar when it comes to customer reviews. Indeed, there are many buyers who claim that this model's rubberized body and comfortable grip cannot be matched by any other.
Some people have however mentioned that this model could be a little heavier than expected. It also has a smaller field of view compared to other hunting binoculars.
The set can be completed with a wide range of accessories, from a comfortable rain shield and neck warmer to a luxury padded carrying case.
Leica Geovid 10 × 42 HD-B 3000
Leica is one of the most popular brands in the world, especially for the manufacture of optical glasses of unsurpassed quality. In addition to binoculars, the brand produces some of the best cameras and microscopes in the world.
Compared to the device we presented above, it is far superior and has all the features that any hunter could look for. However, there is also a downside to choosing this model, since it is considerably less affordable than the others that exist in the range. Despite this, with its advanced ballistic compensation, inclinometer, barometer and thermometer, this device is definitely worth sifting through.
The model is waterproof and anti-fog, but it is not a surprise since it is filled with nitrogen. It is one of the easiest to use models we have come across during our research and it makes hunting easier. Most of the buyers who rated this product left positive comments
Vortex Optics Diamondback 10 × 42
It is a slightly more affordable alternative that we found among the highest rated binoculars of this year 2020. These full-width binoculars offer 10x magnification with a 42mm objective. With multi-layer optics and phase correction prisms, it can safely be said that the Vortex Optics Diamondback is worth considering if you are looking for hunting binoculars.
This model is both anti-fog and waterproof, as is the case with the vast majority of full-width binoculars available on the market today.
One of the things we like most about the Vortex Diamondback is its ease of adjustment. The eyepieces are easily adjustable and a central wheel allows you to focus quickly depending on what you are following.
This value is reinforced by the various accessories included such as the carrying case and the lens covers. Additionally, the rubber exterior of these hunting binoculars allows you to keep a solid grip, even when it rains. We think you will like this product, but if not, don't hesitate to check out our other options from our selection.
Finally, some of the people who bought this device were so pleased with what they got that they wrote detailed reviews mentioning that this purchase was the best they have ever made in their lives. . Overall, the model offers very good value for money.
Carson HD, 3D series 10 × 42
If you want to equip yourself with a pair of binoculars with 10x magnification, then Carson's 3D model should be at the top of your shopping list. This model is equipped with a 42 mm diameter lens, which allows it to receive much more light to facilitate your search for prey.
Another aspect that should interest you is that this device is equipped with a rubberized reinforcement with a textured coating, which will allow you to hold the binoculars correctly in your hands without them slipping even if it rains.
You need to consider this model given its eye relief of 16 mm, BAK-4 prisms, a waterproof treated body. As it has a camouflage design and fully multilayer lenses. It will certainly meet your expectations and requirements. And thanks to its look, you can blend in with the environment.
NIKON PROSTAFF 7s 10X42 Binoculars
With this pair of hunting binoculars, we are in the big leagues! It is not only because Nikon is a brand known for the manufacture of optical instruments capable of excellent performance. It has multi-layer coated lenses and phase-corrected roof prisms, so the images you are about to see will be crisp and clear.
This model is available in two magnifications - 8x and 10x - and two lens diameters - 30 mm and 42 mm. Pick the one that most fits your needs. For example, if your hands tend to tremble, you should choose an 8x magnification. If you don't want your hunting binoculars to be too bulky or too heavy, opt for a 30mm lens.
However, keep in mind that the larger the lens, the more the binoculars are able to capture light from the environment.
Like the other hunting binoculars available for sale at the moment, this one comes with an armored rubber body which protects it in the event of a fall. This model has swivel and sliding rubber eyelets and is anti-fog and waterproof.
Nikon 7577 MONARCH 5
Although it is not exactly the most economical option in this category, the purchase of the Nikon 7577 is surely to be considered because of its technical characteristics, its design and its optical capacities.
This model is available in two ranges: 10 × 42 and 12 × 42, so you should choose the one that best suits your needs and the type of prey you are hunting.
The MONARCH 5 is equipped with a superior quality ED glass for clearer, sharper and brighter images as well as a design considerably lighter than its predecessor.
The optical components of this product are completely covered with several layers, so that the light transmission will undoubtedly meet your expectations.
Another area where the Nikon 7577 hunting binoculars really shine is the user experience. Indeed it comes with flip-up lens caps, a smooth center focus button, and rotating and sliding rubber grommets.
With a weight of 600 grams, it goes without saying that you can get the most out of these binoculars without them penalizing you when you follow your targets.