Rifle Scopes

Top Rifle Scopes for a .17 HMR Rifle

In 2002, the Hornady ammunition company created the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, also known as the .17 HMR. It is a successor of the .22 Magnum and came to be by necking down the .22 Magnum case to take a .17 caliber cartridge. These are popular with most small game hunters and those wanting to rid their gardens and yards of unwanted vermin. The 17 HMR is light and accurate. They easily drop squirrels, pigeons, ruffed and blue grouse, rabbits, and magpies to name a few. They also make short work of raccoons, porcupines, rabbits, and coyotes if a head or heart shot lands. This is relatively easy because of the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire’s accuracy. Target shooters are also fond of the .17 HMR. Both groups agree that the accuracy improves a great deal with the addition of a scope. There are many scopes on the market, which work with the .17 HMR finding the one that is the best for the job can be challenging but with some helpful information, it becomes a manageable task.

The first step in making a decision about a scope for the .17 HMR is deciding the purpose and the degree of accuracy that is necessary. Target shooting at the local range or on private property is an enjoyable pastime for many gun enthusiasts, in this situation accuracy of a scope is important, but probably not important enough to break the bank on a high-end scope. For fending off vermin or hunting small game, accuracy is important, especially if the target is quick or skittish. This very well may be the situation for an investment in a higher quality, higher priced scope. For either price range avoid scopes that feel flimsy or appear constructed with inferior quality materials. A trustworthy adage applies here; if the deal seems too good to be true then it probably is too good to be true.

Essential features for the scope on a .17HMR

  • A large objective lens with optics that are coated to reduce glare
  • A wide field of sight and the ability to collect enough light
  • Nitrogen-purged tube along with lenses sealed by O-rings for the best protection from water and fog
  • Calibrated for .17 HMR for most efficient aim and tagging of the target
  • Single solid tube construction as this holds up best under harsh conditions
  • Heavy duty and strong enough to endure recoil and rough conditions
  • Adjustable objective lens for a sharp image of your target that is parallax free

Best Scopes for the .17 HMR

BSA 3-12×40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope

BSA Optics a company that specializes in the production of riflescopes, binoculars, and spotting scopes, manufactures this scope. BSA is well known and highly regarded for the quality scopes they began producing in 1996. BSA Optics specifically designed their first scope for the .17 HMR in 2004.

The BSA 3-12×40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope is a favorite of small game hunters, who praise the accuracy and the reasonable price of this scope. BSA has packed a lot of quality into a small package with this scope. It is just 13.5 inches and it weighs 19.40 ounces.

The scope features an efficient, specifically calibrated turret system that works well with multiple grain weights. The objective consists of 17gr turret drums and is adjustable. The 40mm objective lens gives a 100-yard look at the field.

The BSA Sweet 17 Scope provides the shooter ideal eye-relief of 3inches, an adjustment range of 30-30, a quarter inch click adjustment, and a range of 10-infinity parallax setting. The scope is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof; it also comes with a limited lifetime warranty. The BSA 3-12×40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope is a quality shooting accessory that is a great value.

Barska 6-18×40 AO Hot Magnum .17 And .22 Interchangeable 30/30 Riflescope

Barska is a sporting goods manufacturer that specializes in utilizing the latest optical technology and components. Barska excels at creating products known for exceptionally bright images. The Barska Hot- Magnum is 15.65 inches long, weighs just 20.48 ounces, and carries a limited lifetime warranty.

One unique feature of this scope is that it is equipped with Bullet Drop Compensation technology or BDC technology. This can be particularly useful to those in target competitions as well as hunters. The BDC system works by having a reticle scheme that predicts how far a bullet will drop over a specific distance.

This improves accuracy and efficiency when shooting over a variety of distances. The shooter simply lines up the target in the reticle that corresponds to the distance of the target and shoots. There is no need to adjust the elevation of the scope when the target distances changes. Bullet Drop Compensation technology is rapidly increasing in popularity as more shooters see its useful applications.

The Barska Hot Magnum has a 40mm objective lens with 30/30 reticles. The lens adjusts easily to make parallax corrections. It provides eye relief of 3.1 inches as well as a click value of ¼. Barska has specifically calibrated the Hot Magnum scope for use with the .17 HMR. The scope also features an adjustable pre-calculated trajectory compensation allowing the shooter to fine-tune the scope within a range of 100-300 yards by simply turning a dial.

Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope

The Banner Dusk and Dawn Riflescope has Bushnell’s sixty-five years of experience in producing dependable and affordable sports optics standing behind it.

This riflescope is equipped with the exclusive Dusk and Dawn Brightness. This effect comes from a multi-coating method that gives vividness and precision that benefit small game hunters. The Dusk and Dawn Brightness allows hunters to make the most of every minute of the hunting day from first light until evening. In addition to the multi-coated optics, the Banner also gives the shooter 3.3 inches of eye- relief, has a convenient fast-focus eyepiece as well as a multi-X reticle. This combines to make it perfect for long range shooting.

The Banner scope has a single tube design and a dry nitrogen filling making it fog- proof and waterproof. It is lightweight and compact; 12 inches long and weighs 15 ounces. Bushnell backs the Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope with a limited lifetime warranty. This is a great value for the small game hunter looking to extend the hunting day as long as possible.

Simmons ProTarget TruPlex Reticle Side Parallax Adjustment Riflescope 3-9x 40mm

Simmons’ parent company, Vista Outdoor, manufactures the Pro Target TruPlex, and this worldwide maker’s thirty-plus years of experience in scopes and binoculars is easy to see. Sportsmen eagerly anticipate new products from Vista Outdoor because of the creativity and endurance Vista puts into their products.

The ProTarget TruPlex is an ideal scope for small game hunting; it has a 3-9x magnification and it is remarkably easy to zero-in on a target using the adjustable turrets, which require just a fingertip to operate. The reticle assists with isolating targets of all sizes.

The ProTarget TruPlex also features multicoated lenses for brilliant high-quality images with the objective of 40mm, side focus, and a generous 3.9-inch eye relief. The scope is 14.5 inches long and weighs 20.4 ounces. The Simmons ProTarget Riflescope is the scope every small game hunter needs.

Hawke Sport Optics Vantage HD 4-12X50 AO Mil Dot IR Riflescope

The Hawke Sport Optics brands make high quality, entry-level optics that will consistently hold up nicely and perform well. The Vantage HD riflescope is a truly versatile scope, which is equally effective in the woods or at the range.

The layered optics have multiple coatings to ensure the proper dispersion of light for a well-defined image. Another unique feature to the Vantage-HD is the etching of the reticle into the lens. The illuminated lens gives the shooter the choice between five levels of intensity and Hawk Sport Optics takes the customizability one-step further by offering the choice of a red light for sunny conditions and a green light for dim light. This makes early morning or late evening accuracy easy. The Vantage HD features a fast focus feature on the eyepiece as well as a side focus of 10 yards to infinity. This scope gives objective of 40mm and a 4-12x optical system and the shooter has a consistent eye relief of 3.5 inches.

The Vantage-HD is 13.6inches long and weighs 18.1ounces. It has a 1-inch monotube body that is constructed of durable lightweight aluminum alloy housing. Hawke Sport Optics augments by adding nitrogen filling to ensure the scope is waterproof and fog-proof. The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage HD 4-12X50AO Mil Dot IR Riflescope is a great value because its versatility and unique features will ensure years of diverse use.

Nikon ProStaff 4-12 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope Bullet Drop Compensator

The ProStaff Riflescope is an example of Nikon’s cutting-edge technology and explains why Nikon is a worldwide authority in sports optics. This versatile scope works well for the range, but the features of the ProStaff shine while on a hunt for game.

The 4-12x 40mm objective lens is multicoated and assures the shooter of sufficient brightness regardless of low contrast or low light surroundings by giving a 98% light transmission. Shooters appreciate the scope’s 3.7-inch consistent eye relief as well as the fact that the ProStaff scope has a zero-reset turret that allows the shooter the option of dialing up successive ranges.

Nikon responded to consumer requests for a riflescope with a Bullet Drop Compensator, by equipping the ProStaff with a uniquely designed reticle made up of see-through ballistic circles. These give the shooter the advantage of maintaining distances once believed to be impossible.

The ProStaff also holds an optional sunshade, which also offers ideal protection from rain, dust, and light snow. The housing of the scope is O-ring sealed and nitrogen-filled to protect it from water and fog damage. The length of the ProStaff riflescope is 14.1 inches and the scope weighs 16.2 ounces. It comes with a lifetime warranty and it is one of the highest rated mid-priced scopes on the market.

Burris Fullfield II 2x-7x-35mm Ballistic Plex

Vista Outdoor created the Burris Fullfield II with the same care and attention to detail that they put into all of their sport equipment. This riflescope’s purpose is to last and outperform the rest of the market and Vista Outdoor backs it up with a warranty that will last forever.

The scope has a multi-coated no-glare lens that provides the shooter unrivaled clarity and contrast even in inclement weather and in poor light conditions. The Fullfield gives the shooter an eye relief, which ranges between 3.1-4.1inches. It has a no-slip grip for the power ring and eyepiece making adjustments simple and quick.

The scope has a ballistic Plex reticle and the Fullfield is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof. It is extremely compact and portable weighing 12 ounces with a length of 11.4 inches. The Burris Fullfield II 2-7x35mm Ballistic Plex is rugged and will hold up under adverse conditions this makes it perfect for game hunting. It is a long term quality investment for the hunting enthusiast.

With so many options at such a wide variety of price points, it is hard for a consumer to go wrong. For use on the range, the Barska 6-18×40 AO Hot Magnum is a wonderfully versatile moderately priced scope. The Hot Magnum’s Bullet Drop Compensation makes it ideal on the range or in shooting competitions.

For use in the field, hunting various kinds of small game the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage HD 4-12X50AO Mil Dot IR Riflescope is an excellent choice. Its fast focus feature makes tagging small, quick game easy, the etched reticle, and the illuminated lens help hunters make the most of their day in the field. By adding, the red and green lights with five levels of light intensity Barska set this scope apart from similar models on the market.

Purchasing a great riflescope for the .17 HMR can be easy and enjoyable, remember these tips and reviews to find the perfect scope.

Rifle Scopes

Best Rifle Scopes for a .308

The most popular rifles on the market are the .308s. They are also some of the most accurate. Scopes are a great addition to an already accurate rifle, and can be very helpful when you are out hunting large animals like deer and elk. If you are in the market for a scope, here are a few things to look for when you are shopping for a scope, and a few reviews to help you get started.

When you are looking for a scope, it is important to think about your needs as far as durability, distance capability, and cost. These features can vary so it is important to figure out what you want first, and then what you will be able to afford.

What to Look For

Distance

A .308 rifle is already made to shoot far distances, so if you are also getting a scope, make sure it is designed for shots of at least 300 to 500 yards, or even more. If it is accurate for fewer yards than that, and lacks high magnification clarity, it isn’t going to help the rifle work any better at far distances. There are some great short range scopes that you can use on a .308, but those just aren’t going to be the best scopes that you can purchase for most situations.

Clarity

Clarity becomes an issue when a scope isn’t showing a distorted view with long range magnification, and it should give you a clear image with conditions that are either low light or bright light.

Durability

Obviously, durability is going to be a big plus for any scope you purchase. Make sure the lenses are scratch resistant, and you will want the tube of the scope to be solid and sealed. Nitrogen and argon normally fill the scope to make it fog resistant, which makes it more durable, and protects the scope’s interior. Also pay attention to the material the scope is made of for durability, shock resistance, and if it can withstand the jarring of the bolt when it is locked into place. A scope is not something you want to replace often, so it is important to make sure it is a quality piece that is made to last.

Since the scope may weigh a little more depending on the material it is constructed of, you need to figure out how to balance it. Scopes that are used for short distances are lighter, and more compact compared to ones used for long distances.

Easy to Use

Your scope should also be easy to use, and it shouldn’t be difficult to decrease or increase magnification, or take a really long time to sight them in. it also shouldn’t need to be sighted again one you have shot a few rounds, this can be a pain if you are hunting at long range, and you miss your target completely.

You also need to make sure you have a clear reticle, and comfortable eye relief, if either of these are not right, you will have a difficult time using your scope. You will also need to be able to easily read the dials, and be able to adjust them.

Another important part is the diameter of the objective lens. The larger the diameter, the larger the field of view which means you it is easier to track your target. If you are having a hard time tracking your targets, then you scope is not easy to use.

Parts of the Scope

Lenses

This is one of the most important parts of a scope. A larger lens is called an objective lens, and you will find it the farthest away from the rifle stock. It works by transmitting light back through to the ocular lens, which you will find the closest to your eyes. The diameter of the objective will limit the amount of light that enters the scope, and how efficiently the light will transmit across the ocular.

You will find the objective lens in the objective bell, while the ocular lens is in the eyepiece. You will usually find most scopes are fog proof and waterproof. These scopes work similar to a telescope, and they come with a cross-hair, or a reticle, that shows you where your shot will land when you pull the trigger.

Magnification

This is the measure of how much larger objects will appear through your scope in comparison to what you see with the naked eye. If it is a 10x magnification, it will be ten times closer than what you would see normally.

You will also find that a scope has either fixed or variable magnification. When you have variable magnification, you will start on a lower magnification and work your way up. Starting with a really high magnification when your target is at close range will narrow your field of view, and lessen the amount of light that enters the scope. This makes getting the shot more difficult.

Field Of View (FOV)

This is the area you see when looking through the scope from right to left. When you have a wider FOV, you will get a lot better results. As you increase your magnification, your field of view will actually get smaller and vice versa.

Recommended Scopes

Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope

The Nikon M-308 Riflescope was created specifically for a high caliber long range rifle like the .308. It has a 42 mm objective lens, and it has a great field of view with around 25 feet at top magnification. It weighs just around a pound, but it is a one-inch tube with sturdy construction that is pretty typical for a .308 scope. It’s a great length for a .308 at about a foot long, particularly for elk and deer hunting.

This fog proof and waterproof scope is great for any type of weather condition, plus it has a 95 percent light transmission, so it can be used in both dim and bright light. It is easy to adjust with an adjustment of only .25 inch making it great for both long and short range accuracy.

The M-308 has about a four-inch eye relief that makes it very comfortable to use. It is also very durable which makes it great for a 308 AR, and it is also terrific for a.308 that is used for large game hunting, or target shooting at a long distance.

With a BDC 800 reticle, you can adjust the M-308 for the trajectory of your rifle. The BDC 800 was specially designed for the .308 so it has 100 yards zero on the crosshairs, plus 200 to 800 yards representative points. BDC means “bullet drop compensator”, and is another way to say the trajectory adjustment of the bullet from the effects of gravity, which is important when you sighting in the scope and shooting it. The M-308 also has side focus, custom turret, and a parallax adjustment.

One of the negatives with the M-308 is that it doesn’t always have mounts, so you should purchase those separately. It’s a moderately priced scope, but it should last you awhile, as long as you take decent care of it.

Bushnell Elite 6500 2.5-16x42mm Mil Dot Reticle

The Bushnell Elite 6500 is a high-quality scope that works really well with a .308. It is solid and durable, and can handle a .308’s recoil easily. It’s also great to use with bolt action .308 rifles. The Bushnell Elite 6500 has really clear and consistent optics that have a durable coating for use out in the field. It’s also nitrogen filled, shockproof, fog and waterproof. Moisture just beads up on it so your focus will always be clear.

It has push and pull turrets, and sighting is quick and easy since it is zero resettable. The Bushnell Elite 6500 is ¼ MOA, and has both resettable windage and elevation adjustment, plus a sunshade and side focus.

The mil-dot reticle helps to improve accuracy at large distances, and the clarity, field of view, and ease of sighting are excellent, plus it is durable and is easy to adjust. It’s a great scope for a .308, and gets an average shooting distance of 100-200 yards to 300-600 yards.

One negative is that if the scope is correctly mounted onto the tube making it level with the barrel, it will be slightly off target. It’s a great scope for someone with experience using a tactical scope, but it could be a bit expensive if you are just a beginner.

Leupold 115390 Mark AR Mod 1 3-9x40mm

The Leupold 115390 Mark AR is a high-quality rifle scope that is reasonably priced, and is the best of the Leupold scopes for a .308. It has a Mil Dot reticle that provides better accuracy, and has an eye relief between three and a half to four and a half inches, so it is super comfortable to shoot with. It weighs about one pound, and is around a foot long. It is Argon and Krypton filled making it fog proof, even if you take it from a warm interior area out into a cold vehicle. It also has multi-coated lenses that are waterproofed, and it has a shockproof design that holds up to the heavy recoil of a .308.

This scope has great, vivid color transmission, plus clarity of view. Because of the mil dot reticle, it can be used for tactical use, but it is still a good scope for beginners. The mil dot also has both vertical and horizontal scadia. Zero-resettable turrets are offered by Leupold that were created just for the .308 rifle, which makes it easier for the .308 owner. Leupold also offers turrets that are specifically for the .308 rifle.

This scope is super easy to use due to the terrific optics of the Mark AR Mod 1. You will find it easy to find the target, and, after you have it sighted in, the mil-dot reticle will make it super easy to estimate shooting distances. It also comes with instructions for sighting in the mil dot reticle. The turrets are in 1/10 mil adjustments, which are a military standard that is easy to master once you understand what it is.

The maximum magnification is 8.6 for the Leupold 115390, which is a bit of a negative. It also doesn’t have a lit scope, but the light transmission is clear, and it works well in low light conditions as well. This scope is a really good value for the price. It’s only drawback is that the mil-dot reticles takes a little getting used to, and some extra practice to master.

The FSI Sniper Kit

The FSI Sniper Kit has awesome optics at a reasonable price. The FSI Sniper Kit provides owners with a high powered scope that has six to twenty-four power magnification, a red/green illuminated reticle, and a 50 mm objective lens. The illuminated reticle lets you see your reticle in low light conditions so it is perfect for fitting on a .308 hunting rifle. One of the negatives that reviewers have reported is that it doesn’t stand up to recoil very well. Otherwise, the FSI comes complete with mounting rings and a sunshade making it one of the best deals on the market for the price.

UTG SWAT Compact Rifle Scope

The UTG SWAT Compact Rifle Scope is a great compact scope that works well with a .308. It has a lot of high-quality features that include a sealed nitrogen purged tube, an illuminated bullet drop reticle, plus fully coated lenses. It also has integrated sunshade, target turrets, a lifetime warranty, and was built to be water, fog and shockproof. The UTG SWAT is a durable scope that is really affordable, and it works well with both a classic bolt action rifle and a modern tactical .308. Some users have reported that it does not hold zero very well, and that the reticule moves once you have centered, so it requires recentering often. Otherwise, if you are on a budget, this is the ideal scope for you that is not only affordable but full of great features.

Choosing the best scope for your .308 depends a lot on your budget, and the features that you want. When you have decided how you will be using your rifle, either for long range or short range targets, it should be pretty easy to find a scope in your price range. Hopefully, the reviews above helped you start your search, and gave you an idea of what is out on the market today.

Red Dot Sights

High End Red Dot Option: Vortex Razor Red Dot Review

Features and Benefits of the Vortex Razor Red Dot Sight:

This sight is of exceptional quality and comes with its fair share of benefits over other sights available on the market. Each of its features is useful and make this sight a great option for hunters who want something simpler to use than just the standard iron sight. Reflex sights are becoming increasingly popular among hunters and gun enthusiasts, and this product will satisfy almost any customer. Here are all of the features of the Vortex Razor Red Dot Sight and how they can benefit users of this product.

  • Wide field lens: The durable lens on this sight is wide and easy to use. It is designed to be resistant to scratches, so users don’t have to worry about the most important part of the sight taking unnecessary damage during use, transport, or storage. Additionally, the lens is protected with an anti-reflective coating, making the high-resolution display easier to see in any possible condition. All of these lens features ensure that vision remains unimpaired during use of this sight.
  • Red dot: The red dot illuminated by this sight is brighter than most and also more accurate, so users can see it easily even in sunny weather. The brightness is adjustable with nine different levels, so it is easily customized to the user’s preference or weather conditions. The dot can be seen clearly in the day as well as night, and shouldn’t be affected by foggy weather so hunters can use it whenever they desire.
  • Aluminum chassis: The chassis of this sight is constructed with an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. It is extremely durable and will last for years to come, regardless of how often it is used or what conditions it is exposed to. The aluminum alloy is chemically treated to be scratch resistant and far more durable than all the other metal options available. It was built to resist damage and to withstand recoil as well as impact.
  • O-ring seal: This sight is sealed with an o-ring for an extra layer of protection from the elements. The o-ring seal keeps out water and dust so that the display lens and red dot are unaffected. This allows for the ability to use the sight completely worry free and get dirty when necessary on the hunt.
  • 6-hour automatic shutdown: If users forget to turn the sight off after they use it, an automatic shutdown feature will kick in after the sight has been on for a consecutive 6 hours. This will conveniently save on battery life so that users don’t get stuck without their sight the next time they need it. At the sight’s highest setting, it has a 150-hour run time.
  • Easy to use: This sight is exceptionally easy to use, even for beginners. The two arrow buttons sit on top of the sight, directly behind the lens. Holding either arrow will make the sight power on, and then the arrows can be used to adjust the brightness of the red dot. Holding either arrow again will power the sight off.
  • Included Picatinny mount: Vortex includes a Picatinny mount with this sight, so it can easily be attached to whatever gun the user prefers.

Drawbacks of Using the Vortex Razor Red Dot Sight:

It is an unavoidable fact that any product on the market comes with at least a few drawbacks. While the Vortex Razor Red Dot Sight is no exception to this rule, the benefits of all its included features far outweigh any negatives listed. Here are the drawbacks to consider before buying a Vortex Razor Red Dot Sight.

  • Sight adjustment with Allen key: Unlike some sights that can be conveniently adjusted with a coin, this sight requires a metric Allen key. This is only a small inconvenience, but it could possibly be bothersome to buyers used to the coin option.
  • Power-on delay: The arrow button on the sight must be held for a few seconds before the sight powers on. While this should be fine for most hunting applications, buyers who use their guns and sight for self-defense might find this delay dangerous and inconvenient.

Who Should Buy the Vortex Razor Red Dot Sight:

This sight is a high-quality option for hunters and gun enthusiasts who prefer the red dot sights over the standard iron sights. It has the durability and high performance necessary to satisfy experienced sight users while remaining easy enough to operate for hunters who are new to reflex sights altogether. The benefits of this product place it well above many other red dot sights on the market, and it has a place in just about every hunter and enthusiast’s collection. The only people who might not get the most out of this sight are those wishing to use it for self-defense purposes rather than hunting. The power-on delay could cause an issue in this situation only.

Binoculars

Binocular Review: Vortex Razor HD 10x42mm

Razor HD BinocularsVortex makes many popular sporting optics, and it shouldn’t be a surprise that their Razor HD 10×42 binoculars are a favorite for those with a budget around $1k. They are high-quality, lightweight binoculars with a crisp, bright image, and come with a VIP unconditional lifetime warranty. Read on to learn the specifics of these binoculars and prepare to be impressed!

Outer design:

Made in Japan, these binoculars have a true open-hinge design. This means that unlike open-hinge binoculars that have two connecting bridges that are very thin, the Vortex Razor HD 10×42 binoculars have just one thicker connecting bridge. However, this bridge connector is still much thinner than the bridge on standard roof prism binoculars, leaving more of the barrels exposed. This gives the extra security needed for one-handed holding.

Exterior

The magnesium chassis on these binoculars is much more durable and solid than the usual aluminum chassis, while the thin, dark green rubber covering will protect your binoculars from most minor impacts. The magnesium and rubber are both non-reflective, making them great for observing timid wildlife. The rubber has a sandpaper grit that is not as tactile as some binoculars’ covering, but is still non-slip, and the magnesium has a rough texture that is also non-slip. The parts of the binoculars not covered by the rubber are the bridge, a small inset on the inside of each barrel, and about one-third of the end of the barrels. While this helps lessen the load, if something metallic (such as a ring or keys) strikes the binoculars, it will make a ringing noise that may scare off some animals.

Under each barrel is a thumb indent, which encourages you to hold the binoculars in the proper position. If held in this fashion, the binoculars are well-balanced, which makes for a stiller, clearer image that is less strenuous on the eyes.

Objective Lens

The optical lens, which is a large 42 millimeters in diameter, is set about eight millimeters deep into the barrels. This helps prevent damage to the objective lenses when the lens caps are removed.

Weight

At 1.55 pounds, these binoculars are very lightweight, but remain solidly built and durable thanks to the magnesium chassis mentioned earlier.

Tripod Mounting

These binoculars are compatible with a tripod adaptor with one-fourth inch threading, allowing use on a tripod or car window mount. However, the adaptor is sold separately.

Twist-up eyecups

Made of metal and rubber, the eyecups are durable but comfortable. Forty millimeters in diameter, the eyecup is quite large, making fitting it on your eye sockets quite comfortable. In addition, the helicode mechanism of the eye cup is simple and very smooth to operate.

Eye Relief

The eye relief is a big plus for eye glass wearers at 17.5 millimeters.

Focusing

The focus Wheel diameter is thirteen millimeters, about standard for full-size binoculars. It has good resistance without being too loose and causing over-rotation. There is a decent reach distance, allowing you to turn the focus wheel while holding the binoculars in the standard position. (Based on an average man’s hand) The wheel is nicely grooved, protrudes from the binoculars a good distance, and is fairly large. This makes turning it easy even with thick gloves, such as you would wear in winter.

Diopter Adjustment

As you can with most good binoculars, you can focus one barrel separately from the other to compensate for differences in your eyes. On these binoculars, the diopter adjustment is located on the right side between the eye cup and the chassis. The nice thing about this adjustment wheel is that you can lock your setting in place, since you have to click the wheel toward the eye cup before turning it. Finally, unlike most diopter wheels, which are made of plastic, this wheel is metal with fine grooves cut into it.

Weather-Proofing

The Vortex Razor HD 10×42 binoculars are all-weather binoculars, being one-hundred percent air and water proof. This also prevents any dust or debris from entering the system. The interior is “argon purged,” which means all the air has been removed and replaced with argon, preventing fogging. As these binoculars are moisture-free, they won’t corrode, extending their life dramatically.

Glass

Apochromatic (APO) Optical System

When light travels through a single simple lens, the distance at which each wavelength comes into perfect focus varies, causing chromatic and spherical aberrations. This results in you seeing soft images and color fringing along the edges of high-contrast images. To minimize chromatic and spherical aberrations, designers of binoculars have created compound lenses, which are a combination of several simple lenses of varying optical properties and focal lengths. The most common type of compound lens is the achromatic lens, which can bring into focus two wavelengths, usually red and blue. However, these binoculars have an apochromatic lens, which means it has three elements and, because it brings the light of three frequencies together to a common focus, it corrects chromatic and spherical aberrations better. The drawback of apochromatic lenses, though, is their weight. The Vortex Razor HD binoculars, however, balance the weight of an apochromatic lens with a magnesium chassis, making the binoculars actually lighter than many binoculars on the market.

ED and HD glass

ED (extra-low density) glass is used in the design of these binoculars’ lens because it has the potential to improve image sharpness and reduce color fringing. HD (high density) glass is also used in the design of the apochromatic lens, since it is easier to manipulate and thus they are able to better focus the wavelengths to improve the color fidelity and resolution of the image even more.

Lens Coatings

More than one layer of Vortex’s proprietary XR anti-reflective lens coating has been added to each lens surface that is open to the air. This greatly increases light transmittance, which results in a much brighter image. This is very important when the ambient light is not so great, as in dense woods or at dawn or dusk.

Vortex has also added Armor Tech coating to the exterior lenses. This very hard coating resists scratches and repels dirt, making the lenses less likely to need cleaning and much easier to clean when they do need it.

Roof Prism and Coatings

While Vortex does not say what kind of prisms they use, the best guess from the quality of other parts of the binoculars is that they are using a good quality BAK-4 glass.

The first coating on the prisms is a phase correction coating. This is needed because roof prisms cause “phase shift,” which leads to a reduction in sharpness. Phase correction coating helps by preserving light in the right color phases. Thus, you get a better contrasting image with color enhancement and sharper resolution.

The next coating is the dielectric multi-layer Prism Coating. What is this and why is it needed, you might ask. The downside to roof prisms is that the first prism in the system has one surface without total internal reflection, causing the loss of some light. It is very important, then, to raise the reflectiveness of this surface. To do this, Vortex has added multiple layers of Dielectric coatings. This creates a Dielectric mirror, which is able to transmit 99% of light, creating a sharper, clearer image.

Optical Performance

Field of View (FOV)

The width of the image you can see at 1000 yards is 362 feet or 6.9 degrees. This is certainly above average and very nice, but it’s not top-notch performance.

Near Focus

The closest distance at which you can focus these Vortex Razor HD 10×42 binoculars is six feet, an excellent distance for full-sized binoculars. This near focus is great for observing butterflies and birds that land nearby, as well as other close objects.

Quality of Image

Compared to other binoculars of similar design, the Vortex Razor HD 10×42 binoculars have a higher level of brightness when the level of ambient light is low. Not much of a difference can be seen when the light is strong, however. This high light transmittance is very important for observing wildlife in dense woods or forests and when the sun is low on the horizon.

Image Contrast and Color Reproduction

When focused properly as you should expect, the image is very sharp. In fact, if you could zoom your naked eyes in, it would look like the image in these binoculars. The color hues are natural, not like the false hues of some inferior binoculars.

Chromatic Aberrations

When viewing light or white images in front of dark backgrounds, which is where color fringing is easiest to spot, there is no apparent fringing. This is where the apochromatic lens and ED glass really shine, as other binoculars without ED glass and with an achromatic lens have a lot of color fringing

Image Softening

On poor quality binoculars, the edges of the viewed image are often softened quite a bit. With these Vortex Razor HD 10×42 binoculars, you don’t get that image softness nearly as much. In fact, it is so minimal that you must really look to see any softening around the edges. This sharpness of image makes the binoculars an excellent device.

Overall, the image is one of the best ones seen on a pair of binoculars of this type. It is crisp and clear, bright and with natural color hues, as well as being without chromatic aberrations or image softness. You’re sure to love the image seen through these binoculars!

In the Box

A few other things come with the Vortex Razor HD 10×42 binoculars: a Rain guard, Tethered Objective Lens Covers, a Comfort Neck Strap, and a Deluxe Padded Carry Case.

Rain guard

The eyepiece cover, or rain guard, fits perfectly over the eyepiece, allowing for no accidental removal. It also has a flexible connector that flexes or compresses according to your interpupilary setting.

Objective Lens Covers

The caps for the objective lenses fit well and so should not fall off accidentally. However, should they fall off, they are tethered to the barrels by a rubber loop which also keeps them out of the way when you are using the binoculars. If you don’t like them dangling down, you can also detach the objective lens covers and stow them away somewhere safe like the carry case.

Neck Strap

These binoculars come with a very comfortable padded neck strap that is also shaped to fit better around your neck and shoulders. Vortex also connected the neck strap to the nylon strap with loop connectors, allowing the neck part of the strap to remain undisturbed when you lift the binoculars to your eyes.

Carrying Case

The carrying case for these binoculars is fairly well-padded, and the binoculars fit snugly without being too tight for easy access. Accessing the binoculars in their case is easy with a quick-release buckle and strap. There is also a mesh pocket on the inside of the lid for storing a few personal possessions such as an ID, a hunting license, and/or a lens cleaning cloth.

There is a separate unpadded neck strap that comes with the carrying case, but it can be attached or removed. If removed, the padded neck strap of the binoculars can be threaded through to be used instead. You can also carry the binoculars on your belt via a few loops on the back of the case.

While not as luxurious as some binocular cases, this carrying case does the job and has easy access to the binoculars.

The overall performance of these binoculars is exceptional. They have a crisp and clear image, are easy to focus and adjust, and have some extra details that add up to greatness, such as the neck strap’s comfortability and the tripod or car window mount possibility.

Red Dot Sights

Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight Review

Venom Red DotThe Vortex Venom Red Dot may be used with almost any pistol, rifle or shotgun. Despite being small in size, this daylight-bright Red Dot is very precise, allowing for a rapid acquisition of the target in no time. The hunting accessory features scratch-free lenses that have an anti-reflective coating. The coating used in the device is a full multi-coating type of surface, which allows the MOA to deliver high-quality images. The device is also a preferred model because of its comparatively wider field of view. The exterior part of the Venom Red Dot is built using an aluminum chassis. This rugged outer chassis enhances the durability of the equipment, regardless of the environment, the device is used in. The intensity and power controls for the equipment are also conveniently positioned, making it easy to use. Throughout this Vortex Venom Red Dot review, you will understand why this is a must-have piece of hunting equipment.

Versatility

The Red Dots are preferred hunting accessories because of their versatility. Additionally, their devices allow for easy targeting—, especially for the long range hunters. As such, you can easily target your prey from a long distance, up to 100 meters, using these devices. The newest of the red dots—the Venom Red Dot–promises to be even better. For one, this happens to be a firearms-grade piece of equipment. Additionally, it is compact enough to fit on the sides of various firearms. Despite its small size, the Venom Red Dot offers a remarkable field of view as well as impressive image clarity.

Vortex Venom Red Dot Packaging

One of the things that you will love about this piece of equipment is its packaging and accessories. Vortex Optics is renowned for offering generous add-ons with their products. The Venom red dot is not an exception, in this regard. In addition to the optic device, the packaging includes an assortment of helpful accessories. Some of the accessories contained in this packaging include a slick picatinny mount as well as the required hardware to secure the red dot to the mount, spare screw, a piece of cloth for cleaning the lens a torx wrench, double-ended screwdriver, battery, and manual.

The double-ended screwdriver features large and small flat heads, which may be used to open and close the battery compartment of the device. You may also use the screwdriver to make sighting adjustments on your equipment. The torx wrench, on the other hand, may be used to secure the device to the mount. Additionally, you will also find a soft rubber cover for the optic within the packaging. This soft rubber is for protecting the device and conserving battery power when the device is not being used.

Design and Built

Vortex Venom Red Dot has a rugged, shockproof exterior body. As such, the device is capable of withstanding firearm recoil force and impact. This piece of equipment is also lightweight, an aspect that may be attributed to its single-piece chassis. The compact optic features O-ring seals, which make the device waterproof. As such, it is impossible for dust, debris, and even moisture to penetrate into the device. This not only makes the device reliable, but also very durable. This being the case, you can use the optic in virtually any hunting environment without worrying about the device being damaged by dust, moisture, and debris. Again, it also features a hard, low-glare, anodized mantle finish—which enhances its durability. The exterior lenses on the device are protected from damage and scratches by the ultra-hard, ArmorTek coating technology by the manufacturer.

Specifications

This device offers some of the best specifications, for devices within its price range. Some of the aspects that make the Venom Red Dot superior include:

  • A magnification of 1 x
  • 3 MOA Dot Size
  • Compact size, measuring 4.8cm long
  • Lightweight, measuring about 1.1 ounces (31 grams)
  • An Elevation Adjustment of up to 130 MOA
  • A Windage Adjustment of up to 100 MOA
  • Adjustment Graduation of 1 MOA
  • The device is Parallax free
  • An unlimited eye relief

Convenience

Just like the other dots by this manufacturer, the Venom Red Dot is very convenient to use in an array of hunting conditions. The convenience associated with this device is as a result of the various convenience features it offers. For instance, the unlimited eye relief feature provided by the dot allows for rapid target acquisition using the device. The extended battery life offered by the equipment also makes it more convenient. The auto-shutdown feature helps to maximize battery life, allowing the device to run for up to 30,000 hours—with the lower battery settings. For the highest battery configuration, the device can operate for up to 150 hours.

Through the Venom Red Dot, Vortex Optics filled the gap between the high quality, expensive optics, and the cheap low-quality optics. At an affordable price, hunters can now have a high-quality optic with an array of superior features. If you are searching for a durable, reliable and affordable optic that will give you accurate targeting and high-quality images, the Vortex Venom Red Dot is the perfect option.

Binoculars

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD L Series Binoculars

Bushnell is the leader in sports optics categories and is continuously exploring new technologies to maintain their dominant market share. The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD L Series binocular is where quality and style meets function and performance. The latest generation of Bushnell binocular incorporates many outstanding and unmatched features of today’s technology.


We tested the Bushnell Legend L Series 10x42mm, which includes these specs:

  • Close focus: 8 ft
  • FOV @ 1000 yd/m: 340/113
  • Eye relief: 18mm
  • Exit pupil: 4.2mm
  • Weight: 23.5 oz

And these features:

  • ED Prime glass
  • Ultra Wide Band coating
  • RainGuard® HD water-repellent lens coating
  • Waterproof/fogproof

Design

Right out of the box you can see that the rugged construction of the L Series Legends contains precise mechanical details. The eyecup design combined with tethered objective lens covers assures accommodation for any user. The diopter adjustment is lockable, and the center focus wheel adjusts seamlessly.

Overall, we like the feel of these binoculars, though they are a bit heavier and slicker than some comparable models.

Bushnell’s patented Rainguard assures you will have the clearest view possible even in troubled weather due to the HD lens coating. These do a nice job of staying fogproof, and are weatherproof.

Target Users

These are another mid-price binocular targeted to bird watchers, hunters, and hikers. It comes in two color options (black or Realtree camo).
Given the clarity and color resolution, these are great binoculars for any of those target users. Many purchase these binoculars as their first pair, or first “good” pair, and are impressed by the quality and details. These are built to last, so you shouldn’t worry about needing to replace them anytime soon – these will definitely last.

Comparison

We tested these alongside some more expensive binoculars with similar specs. One of the key differences between the Bushnell Legend L Series 10x42mm and some of the other mid-range binoculars is price – the L Series is typically under $200. If you have that kind of budget, these are absolutely great binoculars.
If you can spend a bit more, there might be better options (we like the Monarch 5). The Bushnells have great clarity and quality, but some of the other brands focus a bit better and have even better quality. These are also a bit heavier than some of the other mid-range binoculars, though not by much.

Our Verdict

The Bushnell Legend L Series 10x42mm is a good buy, any way you look at it. Plenty of reviewers out there say these are the best in comparison to some of the other similarly-priced brands, so (as always) it’s a matter of preference. We really like these and probably would’ve rated them a bit higher if we weren’t comparing them to binoculars that are a bit more expensive. With binoculars, like all optics, higher price does make a difference.

If the Bushnell Legend L Series 10x42mm fit into your budget, you will not be disappointed. And, if this is your first pair of binoculars, or the first pair you’re putting money into, these will be everything you could hope for.

Check the current price of the L Series 

Binoculars

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD M Series Binoculars Critical Review

Binoculars are a great source of entertainment for anyone who likes to sightsee or bird watch. If you climb a mountain you can see further into the valley by looking through a good pair of binoculars. If you are bird watching, you will most likely need a pair to help you spot the bird that you hear. The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD M Series Binoculars are a great option for anyone who is looking for a full-feature observation experience. Let’s take a look at what makes it stand out from the rest.

Durable Build

This pair of binoculars is lightweight, which makes is very convenient to carry around when you are trekking through the forest. In fact, it only weighs in at about 26.5 ounces. It is also a compact unit that is easy to pack in your backpack until you reach your destination, as it is only 6.5 inches in length. It is constructed with a magnesium alloy chassis that is designed to be resistant to rust and corrosion, which means that if you get caught in a rain storm, the binoculars will not be damaged.

These binoculars feature an open bridge design that is perfect for storing your device in a compact manner. It also makes the unit easier to hold for extended periods of time. The exterior of the Legend M Series is also coated with a convenient non-slip coating to allow you to keep a firm grip on the device. If it does happen to make contact with the ground, the rubber exterior is designed to protect the device against impact damage.

The RainGuard HD lenses are coated with a repellent that is designed to bead water and moisture that finds itself in your viewing area. That means that it will also repel oils from your skin in the event that you accidently touch a lens. In addition to being water resistant, each lens is filled with nitrogen to make it fog proof as well. No matter what adverse weather conditions you run into, the image through these binoculars will still be crystal clear.

Optical Performance

This pair of binoculars features 42 millimeter objective lenses that offer a ten times magnification level that will help you zoom in on your target. The BAK4 roof prism system utilizes a highly reflective coating that is designed to enhance the overall quality of the image by enhancing the contrast and brightness levels that are available to you. In addition, to help create the best resolution, the fluorite glass of the lenses is designed with extra low dispersion to create a clear image.

The lens is also anti-reflective, so if you are looking into the morning sun to spot a bird, you will still be able to see clearly through the binoculars. It also helps to ensure that the color of the bird you see is the same through the lenses as it would be if it were spotted with the naked eye.

The Bushnell Legend M Series features a wide field of view to help you see more at once. In fact, you can see a 340 foot range at a distance of 1,000 yards. That means that you will have a 65 degree angle of view that will help to give you a fully immersive observing experience, which is a pretty large viewing area, especially when compared to some similar binoculars that are sold in the same price range.

Insofar as eye relief is concerned, this device has quite a long one; in fact, it is 22 millimeters long. That gives you more than enough room to comfortably wear glasses and still see clearly through the lens. In addition, the diameter of the exit pupil is 4.2 millimeters, which is a pretty decent size. That large exit pupil allows more light to enter the viewing area, which bathes the image in a beam of light that enhances the quality of what you are looking at.

Not everyone has the same eye shape, so the eye cups can be adjusted to give you a comfortable fit. Simply twist them to the desired level and click them into place for comfortable viewing. In addition, the diopter is designed with an easy to use thumb adjustment tab so that you can make minor changes while you are viewing.

Focusing quickly is imperative if you are going to catch a glimpse of the bird you just heard. To make this easier, a large focus wheel is located in the center of the device that is easy to maneuver with gloves on, and all of the focusing aspects of the Legend M Series can be locked in place to avoid accidental adjustments from occurring.

Additional Features

There is a tripod adaptor available for this unit if you prefer. Lens covers, a neck strap, and a carrying case are all included with the packaging to help prevent damage as well as a microfiber cloth to keep the lenses clean from dust and debris.

If you are looking for a great pair of binoculars that offer a great value to hunters and bird watchers alike, then the Bushnell Legend M Series may be a great option for you.

Binoculars

Zeiss Conquest 10×42 binoculars review

Made in Germany with the top-notch quality of Zeiss, the Conquest 10×42 binoculars are the best of the entry-level premium binoculars on the market. They are made using only the very best of construction materials and carry Zeiss’ reputation for long-term use, durability, and reliability. Should they ever break or need replacement, however, they are backed by a lifetime, transferable limited warranty and a five-year non-transferable repair policy that allows the owner to send the binoculars back for repair or replacement without service charge for the first five years after they register within sixty days of purchase. With the binoculars comes a premium carrying case with comfortable neck strap, lens covers, and a lens cleaning cloth. Many people have said that the lens covers don’t stay on very well, however if adjusted on the lenses properly, they stay put.

Exterior

The chassis of the Conquest binoculars is aluminum, which is lightweight and sturdy. It also resists corrosion. Over the aluminum is rubber armor with a soft, non-slip grip that is sure to please. The rubber also provides a non-reflective surface that is great for observing timid animals in their natural setting.

Tripod Mounting

The ability to mount these binoculars on a tripod is a major plus, as it allows you to steady the binoculars better than you could with just your hands. However, you have to get a Venofix tripod adaptor, sold separately, in order to mount them.

Twist-up Eye cup and Eye Relief

The rotating and lockable eyecups of these binoculars were designed to be usable by eyeglass-wearers and non-eyeglass-wearers alike. Adjustable according to the desire of the user, they are comfortable on the face, though some say the eyecup is not long enough. Zeiss solved this by offering a longer eyecup to anyone who feels they have a need for it. At 17mm, the eye relief is long enough for any eyeglass-wearer, without being cumbersome for non-eyeglass-wearers.

Focusing

The focus wheel protrudes naturally from the center of the binoculars and is large enough to easily find without having to look. Good for lefties or righties, the center wheel means you can adjust the focus with either index finger with ease, making zooming out to a more landscape view quick and smooth

Looking

Diopter Adjustment

Located by the right eye piece, the diopter adjustment wheel allows you to adjust the individual barrels separate from each other. Unfortunately, the wheel is only wide enough for one finger, so it’s not as easy to turn. Also, it doesn’t lock, meaning a slight bump can mess up your barrels’ focus.

Weight

Built for comfortability in the field, the Zeiss Conquest 10×42 binoculars weigh just 1.75 pounds. That’s certainly something you can easily hang around your neck all day while hunting, birdwatching, or doing most any outdoors activity, since it’s hard to imagine any outdoors activity where these binoculars wouldn’t be useful

Weather Proofing

The lenses that are exposed to the air are sealed with O-rings, preventing dirt, debris, and moisture from entering the binoculars. The interior is also nitrogen-purged, preventing fogging.

Optical System

The amazing clarity and sharp image of these binoculars partially derives from the dialect mirror coating. This mirror improves light transmittance and encourages an excellent field-of-view.

ED glass and HD lenses

The extra-low dispersion glasses and high-density lenses enhance resolution, color, and contrast, creating an image that is sharp and precise.

Lens Coatings

The lenses on these binoculars are fully multi-coated for all-weather use. They have a LotuTec water shedding outer coating, as well as being fully armored and waterproof.*means water rolls right off the This means that dirt and smudges are easily removed, and the chance of scratching is greatly reduced.

Roof Prism and Coatings

Zeiss binoculars are made with the very best of BAK-4 prisms.

The first coating on these prisms is a phase correction coating. Necessary because roof prisms cause phase shift, phase correction coating enhances resolution and contrast. This leads to a better, sharper image that is easy to distinguish from non-coated roof prisms.

The second coating, as mentioned earlier, is a dielectric multi-layer Prism Coating. Roof prisms have one side that is does not have total internal reflection, creating a light transmittance problem. Some roof prisms get a metallized mirror surface to help prevent this problem, but the best quality binoculars have a dielectric mirror, as it can transmit 99% of light. This creates a brighter, clearer image.

Field of View (FOV) and Near Focus

A field of view of 354 feet at 1000 yards allows you to get up close and personal with whatever you’re viewing, even if your target is a great distance away! On the other hand, the near focus of these binoculars is a close six and a half feet, creating the perfect image for viewing nearby wildlife, such as insects just a bit over two yards away and deer within hunting range of your tree stand.

Quality of Image

Image Tracking

If wildlife is your target, image tracking is a must-have for you. These binoculars’ sharp image tracking allows you to see an animal as it takes off or blurs past you, without the blur of course. This is especially useful for tracking and watching timid animals.

Image Contrast and Color Reproduction

These binoculars have one of the sharpest image contrasts on the market. They are certainly no exception to the golden rule of Zeiss products. They can pick out distant objects with strong contrast and a clear, precise image. The color reproduction is almost flawless, as well, and this means that from a great distance, you can see what species of bird you are viewing and whether it’s male or female.

Overall, you cannot go wrong with these Conquest 10×42 binoculars from Zeiss. They are a great entry-level premium pair that has all the quality and sharpness of the other Zeiss products. Lightweight and sturdy, they will not break easily, but a limited lifetime transferable warranty is there to back them up in case they do break.

Binoculars

Binoculars Review: Vortex Viper 10x42mm

Vortex ViperFeatures and Benefits of the Vortex Viper 10x42mm Binocular:

  • O-ring sealed: These binoculars are sealed with o-rings, ensuring that no moisture, dust, or debris gets into the housing, disrupting vision from the inside of the lenses. These seals keep the path of vision cleared at all times and allow for users to have these binoculars out even in the rainiest weather conditions.
  • Fog and waterproof: Argon gas purging makes these binoculars resistant to fog and waterproof. This allows users to be able to see clearly without the lenses fogging up in humidity or from body heat.
  • Coated lenses: These lenses are coated for increased light transmission, which allows for clearer vision, color accuracy, and for the lenses to be anti-reflective. Regardless of sun glare, users of these binoculars will see everything clearly and in realistic color. This is especially important for those using this pair of binoculars for pleasure reasons such as hiking or bird watching.
  • High density and extra low dispersion glass: These lenses are constructed with high density and extra low dispersion glass, meaning that all images seen will be high resolution. Users will be able to make out even the smallest details or movements in the distance. This feature benefits users who rely on accuracy and stealth, like hunters.
  • Tethered lens covers: Lens glass can be protected when binoculars are not in use with tethered lens covers. This allows users peace of mind when traveling and needing to transport binoculars in a bag or when leaving binoculars unattended. The lenses themselves are already scratch resistant, but the extra layer of protection is a nice bonus.
  • Lightweight: At only a little over 2 lbs., these binoculars are the lightest full-size pair currently on the market. This makes them easy to transport and wear comfortably around the neck with the included neck strap. It also makes them more comfortable to hold up and use for longer periods of time without arms growing weak or tired.
  • ArmorTeck coating: The exterior lenses on these binoculars are protected with an ArmorTeck coating, which makes them resistant to scratches and oil for clearer vision. This will prevent oily fingerprints from affecting the quality of vision through the lenses.
  • Rubber armor: The body of these binoculars is wrapped in a protective rubber coating. This makes them extremely durable and able to withstand significant shock or impact without any signs of damage. This rubber coating also gives the binoculars a non-slip grip so users are less likely to drop them, even in rainy or slippery conditions.
  • Adjustable eye-cups: The eye-cups on these binoculars are fully adjustable. This makes them comfortable for all users despite anatomy. It also makes use of this product easy for glasses wearers, so they don’t have to impair their own vision before use of this product..
  • Center focus wheel and a locking diopter: This pair of binoculars features an easy to use focus wheel directly in the center of both lenses. This allows for both sides to be focused at the same time. However, if users have different vision in each eye then the lenses can be focused separately, and the difference can be locked in place for their later convenience.
  • Tripod adaptable: These binoculars are tripod adaptable and can also be dashboard-mounted in a vehicle. This allows for convenient hands-free use and the ability to multitask.

Drawbacks of Buying the Vortex Viper 10x42mm Binocular:

Every product on the market right now is going to have drawbacks. As far as the Vortex Binoculars are concerned the benefits far outweigh any negatives and make them more than just a worthwhile purchase.

  • Field of view: These binoculars are high quality in every possible way, but could possibly benefit from a wider field of view. While the one on this pair isn’t at all bad, other pairs on the market have a wider field of view that some users might prefer.

Who Should Buy the Vortex Viper 10x42mm Binocular:

The Vortex Viper Binoculars are among the best currently on the market, and would be a great purchase for anybody that needs a pair. They aren’t overly complicated to adjust and focus, making them easy for people new to binocular use to handle. The adjustable eye-cups allow this pair of binoculars to be used comfortably by people wearing glasses, so vision doesn’t have to be impaired. Additionally, they are lightweight, durable, and high performance, making them the obvious option for users who need a rugged pair of binoculars to take out onto a rougher terrain. They are great for birdwatchers, hikers, hunters, and anybody else who often finds themselves in the great outdoors. No matter what weather conditions a user will find themselves in, they can always rely on these binoculars. They are resistant to even the heaviest rain and can be effective even in low light conditions.

Binoculars

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binocular Review

Do you like to hunt, watch wildlife, or explore the great outdoors? If so, the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binocular was made with you in mind. Designed to help outdoor enthusiasts see the beauty of the world around them, these premium binos are ideal for birdwatching, hunting, traveling, or spending the day trackside and checking out all of the action.

Product Highlights:

The Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binocular features a top-notch rubber-coated magnesium chassis and the premium optics we’ve all come to expect from the Bushnell brand. It’s sleek and fashionable yet rugged and more than capable of providing superior performance in any situation or environment. It is a decent option in the crowded field of binoculars.

  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • Lead-free glass
  • BaK-4 Roof Prisms
  • Water and fog-proof
  • Comfortable and easy to adjust eyecups
  • Open bridge design
  • Extra-wide 340-foot field of view
  • Carrying case, microfiber lens cloth, lens covers, and neck strap included

What Makes them So Special?

The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binocular delivers premium features specifically designed to ruggedly withstand the wear and tear of any outdoorsman. With Bak-4 phase corrected prisms and a fully multi-coated lens system with extra-wide band coatings, it produces extremely bright and crisp images with perfect color rendition. Thanks to its waterproof housing and Bushnell’s proprietary RainGuard HD technology as well, there’s no other bino out there as trail-ready as the Legend E-Series.

Still not convinced? Here’s a closer look at these features and all that the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binocular has to offer:

Waterproof Design

With these Bushnells around your neck, you’ll never be afraid to take your binoculars to the beach, river, or jungle ever again. Like all Bushnell Legends, these binos are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for unhindered performance rain, snow, or shine.

RainGuard HD

In addition to its tried and tested waterproof housing, the Legend Ultra HD E-Series also features Bushnell’s patented RainGuard HD water-repellent coating for superior waterproof protection. Unlike other so-called “waterproof” binoculars, the RainGuard HD technology of the Legend Ultra HD E-Series causes the water to bead on the lenses, thus not affecting their sharpness or contrast. This makes the Legend truly unique.

Premium Lead-Free Optics

For ultimate brightness, incredibly sharp viewing, and the truest of colors, every air-to-glass surface of the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binocular features several layers of anti-reflective, ultra-wide band coatings. The result is a fully multi-coated optical system that delivers incredibly bright and sharp high-contrast images. To top it all off, this Bushnell features top-quality phase-coated BaK-4 prisms and lead-free glass lenses as well, making it eco-friendly and even more dynamic.

Durable Rubber-Coated Magnesium Body

As noted above, the rugged Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binocular has a noticeably lightweight magnesium chassis in a modern and super tough roof prism design. The impressive chassis is coated in rubber armor, providing you with the protection and comfort you need for regular outdoor use. The rubber-coated bino also features a textured grip and an oversized ridged focus knob, both of which add to its comfort and ease of use.

Comfortable and Easy-to-Adjust Eyecups

Proving they’ve truly thought of everything, the good folks at Bushnell also designed the Legend Ultra HD E-Series with twist-up eyecups that are surprisingly easy to adjust. With an eye relief of 17.2mm, the popular binocular is also very comfortable for your eyes as there’s plenty of room even for those wearing eyeglasses. Of course, there’s an adjustable diopter as well, allowing you to make on the fly vision adjustments for your left or right eye.

Lifetime Warranty

Thanks to Bushnell’s new and unheard of no questions asked lifetime warranty, you have absolutely nothing to worry about when you purchase these amazing binos. Whether they’ve been totally crushed, suffered minor accidental damage, or they’re defective in any way, Bushnell will replace or repair your Legend Ultra HDs for no additional charge. Simply send them your proof of purchase and you’ll have a new or repaired pair of binoculars in no time at all.

Dimensions & Specifications:

  • Weight – 23 ounces
  • 10x magnification
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • 42mm lens diameter
  • 17.2mm eye relief
  • 4.2mm exit pupil
  • Lead-free glass
  • BaK-4 roof prisms
  • Eight-foot closed focus
  • Water and fog proof
  • Tripod adapter included

Making the Decision

In an effort to provide you with years of crystal clear nature gazing, Bushnell’s Legend Ultra HD E-Series Binoculars are specifically designed with strength and performance in mind. Whether you like to hike, hunt, birdwatch, or partake in any number of other outdoor activities, these top-of-the-line binoculars won’t let you down.

With strong optics for super bright and clear images, a lightweight rubber-coated magnesium chassis, water and fog proof construction, and comfortable eyecups with plenty of relief, there’s arguably no better binocular on the market today.

So, if you’re a serious outdoor enthusiast in search of the best binocular in the business, look no further than the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E-Series. Rugged yet refined and designed with performance in mind, these best-in-class binos won’t let you down.