The Best Binoculars For Hunting 2023 Buying Guide
Hunting is an exhilarating and challenging activity that requires a keen eye and a steady hand. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, having the right equipment is crucial to your success. One of the most important pieces of gear for any hunting trip is a reliable pair of binoculars. Binoculars allow you to scout game from a distance, identify targets more clearly, and make informed decisions on when to take your shot. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair of binoculars for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you find the best binoculars for hunting in 2023. We’ve researched the top models to bring you our top picks, along with key features to consider when making your purchase. So whether you’re hunting elk out West or whitetails in the East, you can be confident in your equipment and focus on the thrill of the hunt.
Best Binoculars For Hunting Top Picks
Leupold BX-2 Alpine HD
Features
- Waterproof: Yes
- Light Management System: Advanced Optical System
- Guard-ion Lens Coating: No
- Length: 5.5″
- Weight: 28oz
- Magnification: 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Linear FOV @1000 yd: 368ft
- Angular FOV (Degrees): 6.5
- Eye Relief: 15mm
- Exit Pupil: 4.2mm
- Close Focus Distance: 13.5″
- Interpupillary Distance Max: 78mm
- Interpupillary Distance Min: 57mm
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned user, your binoculars should deliver a bright image, offer a comfortable grip, and withstand rugged use. The BX-2 Alpine HD binocular from Leupold is equipped with high-definition performance. Built with Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, it ensures reliable light transmission for extended viewing sessions, exceptional glare reduction in harsh lighting conditions, and the resolution and clarity desired by outdoor enthusiasts. These binoculars are fogproof, waterproof, and backed by a lifetime performance guarantee.
GPO Passion HD
Features
- Magnification: 10×42
- FOV @ 1000y: 336ft
- Exit Pupil Diameter: 4.2mm
- Eye Relief: 17mm
- Close Focus: 6.5ft
- Interpupillary Distance: 57-75mm
- Waterproof: Yes
- Prism Type: Schmidt-Pechan
- Transmission: 91%
- Length: 6.1in
- Weight: 29.6oz
Experience the award-winning excellence of the PASSION 10x42HD binoculars, a high-performance midsized product that strikes the perfect balance between size, weight, and magnification. These binoculars boast exceptional features, including double-laminated HD objective lenses, GPObright high-transmission coatings, a magnesium framing system, and a locking diopter. Weighing just 29.6 ounces, these binoculars are surprisingly lightweight. They offer superior optics with high-resolution and high-transmission capabilities. Additionally, all PASSION HD binoculars come with the industry’s best Spectacular Lifetime Warranty, ensuring their long-lasting performance and your peace of mind.
GPO Passion ED
Features
- Magnification: 10x
- FOV @ 1000y: 340ft
- Exit Pupil Diameter: 4.2mm
- Eye Relief: 16mm
- Close Focus: 8.2ft
- Interpupillary Distance: 56-75mm
- Waterproof: Yes
- Prism Type: Schmidt-Pechan
- Transmission: 90%
- Length: 5.7in
- Weight: 26oz
These binoculars strike the perfect balance with a 10X magnification and a 42mm front objective lens. Built with high-performance ED front lenses, these 10×42 binoculars rival the best in the market. They offer the ideal combination of power, size, and glass quality, catering to those who need a mid-sized binocular with exceptional magnification for detailed viewing and optimal low-light performance.
These waterproof binoculars weigh a mere 26 ounces and have a compact length of 5.7 inches. They feature aluminum adjustable eyecups for durability, a magnesium micro-bridge body for lightweight strength, and GPObright high transmission coatings on every glass surface for superior optics.
Vortex Crossfire HD
Features
- Magnification: 10x
- Objective Len Diameter: 42mm
- Eye Relief: 15mm
- Exit Pupil: 4.2mm
- Linear Field of View: 325 feet/1000 yards
- Angular Field of View: 6.2 degrees
- Close Focus: 6 feet
- Interpupillary Distance: 58-75mm
- Height: 6in
- Width: 5.2in
- Weight: 23oz
Don’t underestimate the Crossfire HD binoculars. These value-priced binoculars offer HD optics, rugged performance, and a high-end form-factor that will exceed your expectations. With the included GlassPakTM binocular harness, you get quick and convenient optic deployment in the field, along with superior protection and comfort. The Crossfire HD is truly a rare gem in the world of binoculars.
Swarovski EL
Features
- Magnification: 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Close Focus: 4.9/1.5
- Field of view at 1000yd: 336
- Eye Relief: 20mm
- Dimensions (HxW): 6.3″ x 5.2″ x 2.4″
- Weatherproofing: Waterproof/Fogproof
- Weight: 29.6 ounces
- Manufacturer Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty
The Swarovski EL 10×42 Swarovision Binoculars have undergone a complete redesign, featuring a new body design and an improved neck strap connection for effortless on and off. These binoculars are the top choice for hunters, spotters, and nature enthusiasts alike. Immerse yourself in unparalleled clarity and discover the enhanced design for yourself. See the world through the lens of true quality glass!
Swarovski CL Companion
Features
- Large edge pupils allow for large comfortable eye box
- Improved viewing comfort via a more comfortable eye box – very forgiving and easy to use
- Easy focusing and adjustment – new central focus wheel with integrated diopter adjustment
- Quick connector carrying strap
- Rugged, well balanced optic. Slimmer, slightly longer, easier to hold
- Focusing mechanism with integrated diopter adjustment
- Optical and Mechanical concept and design
- Magnesium housing
- Increased eye relief over previous model
- Increased Field of View over previous model
- Improved edge to edge sharpness
Uncover every vital detail with the all-new CL Companion 10×30 binoculars. Enhanced optics and 10x magnification bring you intimately close to the wonders of nature. Designed with ergonomics in mind, these compact and lightweight binoculars are the perfect hunting companion, ensuring unique and memorable experiences even while on the move.
LEICA Geovid Rangefinding Binocular
Features
- Magnification: 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Eye Relief: 16mm
- Weight: 34.5 oz
- Length: 6.9″
- Width: 4.9″
- LED Display
- Exit Pupil Diameter: 4.2 mm
- Twilight Factor: 20.5
- Field of View @ 1,000 yds: 342 ft.
For hunters and precision long-range shooters seeking reliable and accurate targeting in various conditions, the Leica Geovid 3200.COM with Bluetooth is a game-changer. This revolutionary binocular and rangefinder combo delivers precise measurements up to 3,200 yards on non-reflective targets. With industry-leading optical quality and a durable, sleek design, the Geovid ensures longevity and exceptional value. Its robust Bluetooth platform and integration with the Leica Hunting App provide unmatched precision and performance. The Geovid 3200.COM empowers shooters with unwavering confidence, offering seamless adjustment and management through the app. Additionally, compatibility with the “Kestrel Elite” wind meter and Apple Watch enables the use of advanced “Applied Ballistics” with personalized ballistic values. Experience precise and repeatable measurements you can rely on, regardless of location or time.
Bushnell Forge
Features
- Magnification: 15x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 57mm
- Length: 8.7″
- Weight: 51oz
- Exclusive EXO Barrier Protection
- ED Prime Glass
- PC-3 Phase Coating
- IPX7 Waterproof construction
- Dielectric Prism Coating
The pinnacle of the Forge binocular family is the 15X56 model. Designed for exceptional magnification, it features large 56mm objective lenses that excel at gathering light. But we didn’t stop there. With BaK 4 Abbe Koenig prisms and Ultra Wideband lens coatings, this binocular ensures enhanced light transmission. It also boasts ED Prime glass and PC3 phase coating, which deliver remarkable resolution and vivid color contrast even in low-light conditions. Hunters, shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts can trust the Forge 15X56 to capture every moment without missing a beat.
SIG SAUER Zulu 7 HDX
Features
- Length: 5.8in
- Weight: 33oz
- Close Focus Distance: 5.9ft
- Angular: 6.5 degrees
- Field of View: 341ft @ 1000yds
- Exit Pupil: 4.2 mm
- Eye Relief: 17 mm
- Magnification: 10x
- Durable rubber armor protects with an ergonomic non-slip grip design.
- Waterproof and fog-proof performance
- IPX-7 rated for complete immersion up to 1 meter
- Multi-position twist-up eyecups – great for eye relief and allows a custom fit for each user.
- Includes tethered lens cover, strap, lens cloth, and padded case.
- Tripod-compatible
- Rugged and durable by design
Experience optical excellence with the ZULU 7 lightweight binocular. Its open-hinged design and short-to-long range prism deliver clarity and vibrant colors. With HDX optical design, extra-low dispersion glass, and high light transmittance glass, enjoy bright images and accurate color reproduction. The fully multi-coated roof prism and super high reflectance BAK4 prisms offer unmatched resolution and contrast. Built tough with a magnesium housing, the ZULU 7 excels in rugged conditions. Elevate your viewing with the ZULU 7 for unparalleled optical performance.
How to Choose the Best Binoculars for Hunting
When it comes to selecting the best binoculars for hunting, there are several key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your selection:
- Magnification- Binoculars are often described by two numbers, such as “8×42” or “10×50.” The first number refers to the magnification, or how many times closer an object appears through the binoculars than it does to the naked eye. Higher magnification can be useful for long-distance viewing, but can also make images appear shaky or blurry. Additionally, the larger the magnification, the less light gathering a pair of binoculars will have at any given objective lens size.
- Objective Lens Size: The second number refers to the diameter of the objective lens in millimeters, which determines how much light can enter the binoculars. Larger objective lenses can provide brighter, clearer images, but can also make binoculars heavier and bulkier.
- Field of View: The field of view is the width of the area visible through the binoculars at a given distance. A wider field of view can be useful for scanning large areas quickly, while a narrower field of view can provide more detail on specific objects.
- Image Quality: The quality of the image you see through the binoculars depends on factors such as the quality of the lenses, coatings, and prism systems. Look for binoculars with high-quality glass and coatings to ensure sharp, clear images.
- Size and Weight: The size and weight of the binoculars can impact their portability and ease of use in the field. Consider how much weight you’re willing to carry and how much space you have in your pack.
- Durability: Hunting can be tough on gear, so look for binoculars that are built to withstand the elements. Water-resistant, fog-proof, and shock-proof features can help protect your binoculars from damage.
- Price: Binoculars can range in price from under $100 to over $1,000, depending on the features and quality. Determine your budget and choose the best binoculars you can afford within your price range.
By considering these factors and choosing binoculars that meet your needs, you’ll be well on your way to a successful hunting trip. If you want to dig deeper into the topic of selecting the best pair of binoculars for hunting, check out the podcast below for more detail.
Best Hunting Binoculars FAQs
What is the best magnification for hunting binoculars?
The best magnification for hunting binoculars depends on a few factors, including the type of hunting you’ll be doing, the terrain you’ll be hunting in, and your personal preferences. In general, most hunters find that magnifications between 8x and 10x provide the best balance of magnification and stability. Higher magnifications, such as 12x or 15x, can be useful for long-range viewing, but can also make the image appear shakier and more difficult to hold steady. This can make it harder to maintain focus on your target and can lead to eye strain or fatigue over time.
Lower magnifications, such as 6x or 7x, can be useful for hunting in densely forested areas or for tracking moving game. These binoculars have a wider field of view, which can make it easier to locate your target quickly. Lower magnifications also allow more of the available light to enter your pupil, so if hunting in low-light situations is common for you, consider the lower magnification option out of the ones you are considering. Ultimately, the best magnification for hunting binoculars is one that provides a clear, stable image and allows you to easily and accurately identify your target. It’s a good idea to try out a few different magnifications and see what works best for your individual needs and hunting style.
Which is better 10×42 or 10×50 binoculars?
The choice between 10×42 and 10×50 binoculars ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Magnification: Both 10×42 and 10×50 binoculars have the same magnification, so there is no difference in terms of image size or perceived distance.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 10×50 binoculars have a larger objective lens diameter than 10×42 binoculars, which means they allow more light to enter and produce brighter and clearer images, especially in low light conditions.
- Weight: Generally, 10×42 binoculars are lighter and more compact than 10×50 binoculars, which can make them easier to carry around for extended periods of time.
- Field of View: 10×42 binoculars typically have a wider field of view than 10×50 binoculars, which can be beneficial for quickly scanning and locating game.
However, a narrower field of view can provide a more detailed image and be better for identifying specific details. In summary, 10×50 binoculars may provide better image quality in low light conditions, while 10×42 binoculars are typically more lightweight and have a wider field of view. Consider your specific needs and preferences to determine which option is better for you.
What do the numbers on binoculars mean?
The numbers on binoculars refer to the two main specifications that describe the optical performance of the binoculars. The first number represents the magnification power of the binoculars and the second number refers to the size of the objective lenses. For example, in the common format of “8×42” or “10×50”, the first number represents the magnification, while the second number represents the diameter of the objective lens in millimeters. The magnification number (e.g. 8x or 10x) tells you how many times closer the image will appear through the binoculars compared to what you would see with the naked eye. So, for example, if you’re using 8x binoculars to view a deer at 100 yards, the image will appear as if the deer is only 12.5 yards away (100/8 = 12.5). The second number, which refers to the objective lens size (e.g. 42mm or 50mm), determines how much light the binoculars can gather. Generally, larger objective lenses will allow more light to enter the binoculars, resulting in brighter and clearer images. However, larger lenses also mean larger and heavier binoculars, which can make them more difficult to carry and use.
Final Thoughts On The Best Binoculars For Hunting
In conclusion, having a reliable pair of binoculars is an essential tool for any hunting trip. By investing in a quality pair of binoculars, you can increase your chances of success and enhance your overall hunting experience. We hope this buying guide has been helpful in providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision when choosing the best binoculars for hunting in 2023. By considering factors such as magnification, objective lens size, image quality, size and weight, durability, and price, you can find the perfect pair of binoculars to suit your individual needs and preferences.
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