BINOCULARS

Best Binoculars for Hunting: Experience Extraordinary Adventure

Learn more about binoculars
Written by Kane Dane

Looking for a change in your daily hunting routine? The best binoculars for hunting await you! Lots of videos and magazines proved that hunters really rely on their binoculars. It is something they can’t live without. This is because hunters who have been hunting for long, always have to carry it along.

A decent pair of binocular is really important. If you think you are satisfied with your rifle scopes, think again. Binoculars have higher magnification power to present you much more precise, sharp and accurate images. In fact, almost every professional hunter will tell you, you must have one.

The good news here is, binoculars are not only for hunters. Whether you are someone fond of hiking, fishing, boating or simply bird watching, binoculars can give you an extraordinary adventure experience without breaking the bank.If you want to get a good pair of binocular for your trips but having a hard time choosing one, read on.

Our Top Picks

Product NameField of ViewPrism GlassOptical CoatingConstructionPrice
Vortex Optics Viper319' @ 1000 yd / 105.91 m @ 1000 m319' @ 1000 yd / 105.91 m @ 1000 mFully multi-coatedWaterproof, fog proof, O-ring sealedCheck price on Amazon
Leica Geovid HD-B114 m @ 1000 mHD fluoride glassFully multi-coatedFog proof, slip-resistant, Perger-Porro prism configuration Check price on Amazon
Vortex Optics Diamondback345 feet/1000 yardsPhase-corrected prisms, dielectricFully multi-coatedFully multi-coatedCheck price on Amazon
Eagle Optics Shrike341 ft field of view at 1,000 yards341 ft field of view at 1,000 yardsFully multi-coatedWaterproof, fog proof, rubber casingCheck price on Amazon
Vanguard Endeavor114 @ 1000m/340 @ 1000 yardsBak-4 phase-coated prisms, ED glassFully multi-coatedWaterproof, fog proof, locking diopter ringCheck price on Amazon
Bushnell Trophy XLT325' @ 1,000 yardsLead free glass, BaK-4 prisms Fully multi-coatedWaterproof, fog proof, New dura-grip rubber, Soft touch thumbgripsCheck price on Amazon
Augymer Wide Angle2000 meters FOVUltra HD lensFully multi-coatedFog proof, Non-slip rubber armor, Soft Texture GripCheck price on Amazon
Hooway396 feet at 1000 yards / 132 meters at 1000 metersPremium BAK4 prismFully multi-coatedWaterproof/fog proof, internal rangefinder, compassCheck price on Amazon

Features to Consider Before Purchase

Binoculars give a lot of advantages. If you are interested in getting a pair, you deserve to know a few things. We cover a few below.

Field of View

For you to find the best binoculars for hunting, consider what its field-of-view is like. The field of view is the wideness of vision of the certain binocular. If you see something like 320 feet at 1000 yards, it means that the wideness of vision will be 320 feet at a distance of 1000 yards.

A larger field of view is better for easier navigation while scouting. This is what hunters love too. It is being said that anything above 300 feet is enough to provide a good hunting experience.

Prism Glass

Prisms and lens are what binoculars greatly made of. Generally, the better the glasses, the more expensive it can be. These days, most binoculars are utilized with High Definition (HD) or Extra Dispersion (ED) lens.

Binocular Aircraft Carrier Navy Military Ship

HD and ED may sound different but these two terms are essentially the same when it comes to the quality of the device. When it comes to prisms, advanced devices probably with BAK-4 prisms are great.

Optical Coating

Fully Multi-Coated or FMC form is the best since multi-layered lens are known to offer reliable performance and long-term of use. The Fully multi-coated lens may also reduce the loss of light. One other form of lens coating is the MC or Multi-Coated which some, not full, glass-to-air surfaces is the only coated.

With MC, the quality of vision through this kind of binocular is generally lower. What’s differentiates between a high-quality from a low-quality binocular is only the form of lens coatings.

Magnification

The higher the magnification, the better. This is a common phrase when it comes to optics. However, the magnification you need depends on what you specifically need in a device. The most popular binocular sizes for hunting seems to be 8×40 and 10×42.

man with binocular

These ranges provide a good combination of power and light gathering capability; this has been known to work great for low light hunting conditions.

As higher magnification also means you will experience some magnified unsteadiness in the eyepiece, before choosing which magnification is best, think about how you hunt and determine your personal vision abilities first. This will help you select which is best for your hunting trips.

Size of Objective Lens

The size of objective lens should also be considered in order to achieve brighter and clearer images. The bigger the size, the better the device can be. This is because the larger objective lens is able to absorb more light providing exceptionally brighter pictures.

binocular lense

The larger objective lens is also important for hunters especially when hunting is performed in areas with low light intensity. Though you can have a bit heavier binocular, an objective lens with bigger lens diameters is always great.

Top Products on the Market Today

Now that you know what to look for you’ll be interested in finding some great examples of binoculars for hunting.  We have rounded up 8 great choices, you’ll need to pick the one that works best for your needs.

Vortex Optics Viper Binocular Vortex

Price: Approx. $499

Weight: 1.54 lbs

Dimension: 7 x 9 x 4 inches

Magnification maximum: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42 mm

Specific features: O-ring seals, argon gas purging, fog proof, waterproof, dielectric prism coatings, high-density extra-low dispersion glass, color fidelity

Best use: Hunting

Description: The Vortex Optics Viper Binocular has 10×42 sizes in which 10 is for magnification and 42 mm is for objective lens diameter. This device comes with HD or High-Density extra-low dispersion glass for impressive resolution and color fidelity.

HD is great in obtaining high definition images as well. Viper is an award-winning binocular and Vortex Viper HD Binocular is one of its greatest creation. It is provided with O-ring seals to prevent moisture, dust, and debris. This optic feature is designed to provide reliable performance wherever the journey may take you.

The device is also packed with argon gas purging for fog proof and waterproof use.  Together with it is an XR which is fully Multi-Coated on all air-to-glass surfaces for increased light transmission. On the other hand, the dielectric prism coatings or the multilayer prism coatings designed to give bright, clear and precise color images.

Another optical feature of the device is the phase correction. It is the coating on roof prism models which enhances resolution and contrast. The Viper HD is a premium quality binocular with everything you need in one. With it, you will get what you pay for.

The Vortex Optics Viper is also rugged, compact and lightweight and is capable of making a change more than the other gears can. Another great thing about its construction is the rubber armor which provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.

When you purchase the product, you can get VIP Unconditional Lifetime Warranty meaning the Vortex Optics will repair or replace the device at no cost, no question and no registration required. The product is also packed with a comfortable neck strap, deluxe padded case and tethered objective lens covers.

PROS:

  • Bright, clear, precise images
  • Multi-layered coatings
  • Impressive resolution
  • Reliable performance
  • Waterproof
  • Fog proof
  • High-quality
  • Rugged
  • Compact
  • Lightweight

CONS:

  • Very sensitive focus

Related: Buying the Vortex Harness Strap together with the device, would work best. It relieves neck fatigue and strain from carrying the binocular around your neck. It is designed with flexible nylon/lycra straps for easy sliding.Top of Form

Check the price on Amazon

Leica Geovid HD-B Binocular Leica Geovid HD-B Binocular

Price: Approx. $3,250

Weight: 3 pounds

Dimension: 4 x 8 x 8 inches

Magnification maximum: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42 mm

Specific features: 10x magnification, HD fluoride glass, cutting-edge Perger-Porro prism configuration, atmospheric condition display, large center focusing knob

Best use: Detailed observation over greater distances

Description: The Leica Geovid HD-B Binocular features integrated laser rangefinders for reliable measuring. It is provided with state-of-the-art fluoride lenses for maximum color fidelity as well as contrast and stray light suppression.

Bring the device from anywhere you want with ease because it is compact, waterproof and fog proof. Its construction is designed to give long lasting binocular use with high-class ergonomics. The overall concept of the device brings out a revolution in range finding.

One of its unique features is the supreme optical performance of their patented Perger Porro prism system. It also has an optimized ergonomics of their bridge construction and comes with an extremely high-performance laser rangefinder with a multifunction ballistic computer.

These rangefinding binoculars access an internal database with ballistic curves for all standard ammunition. Additionally, this device works best at uploading their own specific parameters through a micro SD memory card.

The newly developed binocular comes with an improved Advanced Ballistic Compensation to allow hunters determine the point of aim more quickly especially when using the gear on shooting longer distances.

Don’t worry about how precise the device would work because it is made with precise parameters needed for a certain reticle or click adjustment. This is available in just a second split. This binocular is very much convenient as well for it offers atmospheric condition display.

PROS:

  • Extremely wide field of view
  • High-class ergonomics
  • Great optical quality
  • Customizable ballistics curve
  • Display atmospheric conditions
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Fog proof housing
  • Slip-resistant

CONS:

  • Secondary/menu button can be confusing. It is right next to the main ranging button at the same size.

Check the price on Amazon

Vortex Optics Diamondback Binocular Vortex Optics Diamondback Binocular

Price: Approx. $219

Weight: 1.5 pounds

Dimension: 5.9 x 5.6 x 1.8 inches

Magnification maximum: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42 mm

Specific features: Fully multi-coated optics, phase corrected prisms, waterproof, fog proof, 42 mm objective lens diameter, 10x magnification, VIP warranty

Best use: Hunting, bird watching, camping

Description: If you want to have superior quality, high-performance hunting optics, you may try Vortex Optics Diamondback Binocular. You can find its way around your neck for a surprisingly affordable price. This smooth focusing Diamondback binocular will take your hunting to the next level without compromising the price.

It provides 10x magnifications through a 42mm objective lens. This rugged device is striking its lead in how well it detects a prey even in low light. It also has a huge field-of-view making it the largest in its class.

The device is also provided with enhanced multi-coated optics in which you can expect its reliable, long-term performance. Together with it the phase-corrected prisms, waterproof and fog proof construction as well as soft tapered eyecups and rugged rubber armor.

Although the device is waterproof but just like other waterproof devices, you can’t soak it in water for long. Its multi-coated optics, phase corrected prisms and waterproof capability is made for all-out protection.

When you choose to buy the product, you can get VIP Unconditional Lifetime Warranty which means Vortex Optics is eligible to fix or repair the unit without any question or charge.

You can also get rain guard, tethered objective lens covers, comfortable neck strap and a deluxe custom-molded case in a box. For an approximately $220 cost, you will get more bucks for the buck.

PROS:

  • Superior quality
  • High-performance optics
  • Surprisingly affordable
  • Smooth focusing
  • Ultimate viewing clarity
  • Rugged design
  • Waterproof
  • Fog proof
  • Huge field-of-view

CONS:

  • Adaptable tripod must be purchased separately

Related: Carry the Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular with ease with this Vortex Optics Archer’s Padded Binocular Strap. For as low as $19.00 (approximate), you can have gorgeous sling-style carrying strap for perfect hunting escapade.

Check the price on Amazon

Eagle Optics Shrike Binoculars Eagle Optics Shrike Binoculars

Price: Approx. $100

Weight: 2 pounds

Dimension: 5.9 x 4.9 x 5.9 inches

Magnification maximum: 8x

Objective lens diameter: 42 mm

Specific features: Fully multi-coated lenses, rubber armoring, adjustable eyecups, tripod adaptable, waterproof, fog proof

Best use: Hunting, bird watching

Description: Just because the Eagle Optics Shrike Binoculars is sold at a budget-friendly cost does not mean it has low-quality at all. With it, you won’t suffer from dark and fuzzy images. It has 8x magnification through 42 mm diameter objective lens ensuring high image quality, strong build and ample field of view.

The lenses are also fully multi-coated making it withstands abusive users. Such type of lens increases light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass areas.

This product is packed with rubber armoring for secure and non-slip grip and comes along with adjustable eyecups for comfortable viewing even without eyeglasses. The device works great with an adapter because it has Tripod Adaptable capability that can be mounted using standard inch threading.

It is waterproof and fog proof, you can bring it anywhere you want. It is waterproof because this optics is sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside.

On the other hand, it is fog proof because it has barrels filled with nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging. Having these protection means you don’t have to pamper with the unit.

This device is also provided with BaK-4 Prisms for optimized light transmission and Center Focus Wheel which adjusts both binocular barrels at the same time. One other great thing of its construction features is the Right Eye Diopter for you to adjust differences when viewing.

It is just located on the right side of the eyepiece. The product comes with the Eagle Optics Platinum Protection offering unlimited, unconditional and lifetime warranty.

PROS:

  • Adjustable
  • Secure
  • Non-slip
  • High image quality
  • Multi-coated lens
  • Waterproof
  • Fog proof
  • Tough
  • Great Construction
  • Affordable

CONS:

  • Adapter sold separately

Check the price on Amazon

Vanguard Endeavor Binocular Vanguard Endeavor Binocular

Price: Approx. $299

Weight: 1.6 pounds

Dimension: 6.1 x 5.1 x 0.1 inches

Magnification maximum: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42 mm

Specific Features: ED glass, Bak-4 phase-coated prisms, fully multi-coated lenses, three-stage twist-out eyecups, long eye relief, locking diopter ring, waterproof, fog proof

Best Use: Hunting; challenging weather conditions

Description: The Vanguard Endeavor Binocular provides nature and outdoor users the high-class features at a very affordable price. It is provided with Premium ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass with MultiGuard coatings for sharp and bright images while providing high contrast even in a low-light condition.

It also reduces color dispersion to provide high-resolution colors and clarity. The ED glass makes the colors align to meet at the same focal plane to reduce the chromatic aberration. This will also obtain the highest resolution and image contrast for ultimate sharper images.

The endeavor ED series come with an ergonomic, open-bridge design that’s very comfortable to use with a wide viewing angle and ultra-reliable Bak-4 roof prisms. This device is also nitrogen-charged and O-ring sealed making it water and fog proof and able to stand on no matter what the weather condition is.

This thing is also packed with MultiGuard coatings to provide multiple layers of anti-reflective compounds. This has been designed to give optimal light transmission while producing a remarkably clear field of view.

To make sure users can adjust the focus to accommodate differences between each of their eyes, a locking diopter is made. The diopter rings lock the device so tight so the adjustments don’t anymore need to be made before each use.

Carry the thing wherever you will go because it is lightweight and compact. There is a premium lifetime warranty included when buying this item.

PROS:

  • High-class features
  • Very affordable
  • Sharp and bright images
  • High resolution
  • Wide viewing angle
  • Optimal light transmission
  • Waterproof
  • Fog proof
  • Clear

CONS:

  • No batteries included

Check the price on Amazon

Bushnell Trophy XLT Binoculars Bushnell Trophy XLT Binoculars

Price: Approx. $85

Weight: 1.6 pounds

Dimension: 7 x 6 x 3 inches

Magnification maximum: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42 mm

Specific features: Waterproof/fog proof, fully multi-coated optics, dura-grip rubber, soft touch thumb grips, flip objective covers, lead-free glass, 10×42 size, Bone Collector Edition

Best use: Hunting, bird watching, nature walks

Description: The Bushnell Trophy XLT Binocular is a Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition with 10x magnification and 42 mm objective lens. This binocular gets you closer to the action while saving big.

This is from Bushnell’s Bone Collector optics series which comes with a top-quality pair of Binocs. It is designed for long term use with 100% waterproof and fog proof protection. It has dura-grip rubber all over the gear making it easier to hold and use even in a wet weather condition.

If you want to have very clear images, you can achieve that with these devices because it has multi-coated lenses. Such lens is also essential to increase light transmission while delivering an HD-quality picture. This Bushnell Trophy XLT Bone Collector Edition is great for bird watching, hunting or simply nature walks.

It has fast center focus system for quick image acquisition, soft touch thumb grips and comes with flip objective lens covers. It is capable of giving convenient twist-up eyecups, 15.2 mm eye relief and 4.2 mm exit pupil.

This Bushnell’s world-class optics offers superior durability with light transmission.  It has been built ultimately as hunting binoculars. It has upgraded with more housing that’s even more durable and long-lasting.

For you to achieve ultra-bright, razor-sharp images through the most critical movements, fully multi-coated optics and Bak-4 prisms are working together.

Nothing compares with the toughness of the device due to its streamlined Dura-Grip rubber-armored housing which is sealed by O-ring and purged by nitrogen. With these, you will get what you pay for.

PROS:

  • Top-quality
  • Waterproof/fog proof protection
  • Durable
  • Long-lasting
  • Ultra-bright, razor-sharp images
  • Quick image acquisition
  • Rugged design
  • Easy to hold
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable

CONS:

  • Flip cover easy; a bit floppy

Check the price on Amazon

Augymer Wide Angle Binoculars Augymer Wide Angle Binoculars

Price: Approx. $59

Weight: 1.8 pounds

Dimension: 8 x 7.6 x 2.8 inches

Magnification maximum: 8x

Objective lens diameter: 50 mm

Specific features: Wide angle, fog proof, ultra HD lens, 8x magnification, non-slip rubber armor, blu-ray coating, oversized 50 mm objective lens, antiskid, soft texture grip

Best use: Bird watching, hunting, camping, hiking

Description: The Augymer Wide Angle Binoculars are designed with an Extra Wide Field of View empowering you to identify and focus on your target with speed and precision. Whether you are birding in an open field, hunting or simply fishing along the lake, you can have quality time with an amazing device like this.

This binocular comes with Blu-ray coating making you able to see the target clearly even at a distance. It has 99.3% transmittance with stunning HD clarity and comes with non-slip rubber armor as well as Soft Texture Grip to absorb shock while providing a firm grip.

This device is a pretty fog proof type so bring it anywhere, anytime for it is ideal for different field use. It has a wide angle and high magnification because of the oversized 50 mm objective lens which can transmit 40% more amount of light compared to those devices with only 42 mm objective lens.

With 8x magnification, you can view the goal larger and clearer. Such magnification also offers a huge field of view making it ideal for long-range viewing.

One other best thing about this device is that it is using camouflage which can be well hidden in a variety of different field environments. This hidden design has made the gear greatly ideal for hunting, bird watching, fishing and a lot more.

If you love traveling, hiking or wanted to go anywhere hassle-free, this gear would work great because it is compact and durable.

This has been specially designed with long-lasting ergonomics which comes with 90 days Money Back Guarantee and a Lifetime Warranty. When you purchase this item, you will get a neck strap, carrying bag, lens covers, eyepiece covers and cleaning cloth in a box.

PROS:

  • Fog proof
  • High magnification
  • Stunning HD clarity
  • Wide angle
  • Larger and clearer view
  • Compact
  • Long range viewing
  • Speedy and precise
  • Durable
  • Lifetime warranty

CONS:

  • Only 1 cleaning cloth included

Related: When purchasing the product, you may also purchase Battery Powered Helmet Light. It is best for camping, running, hiking and reading. It comes with 4 lighting modes and 3 AAA Batteries. This thing is important if you’d like to use the binocular at night.

Check the price on Amazon

Hooway Binoculars Hooway Binoculars

Price: Approx. $179

Weight: 2.2 pounds

Dimension: 7.7 x 3.5 x 6.9 inches

Magnification maximum: 7x

Objective lens diameter: 50 mm

Specific features: Waterproof/fog proof, internal rangefinder and compass, nitrogen-purged, porro prism system, fully multi-coated, non-slip rubber armor, 22 mm eye relief, 6.8 mm exit pupil

Best use: Marine, fishing, boating, hunting

Description: Another gorgeous waterproof/fog proof binocular is the Hooway Binoculars. It is a military marine binocular with internal rangefinder and compass for easy navigation. It is also ideal for boating, fishing, water sports, hunting and a lot more.

It is provided with 7x magnification through a 50 mm objective lens, 22 mm eye relief, 6.8 mm exit pupil and 396 feet at 1000 yards or 132 meters at 1000 meters field of view. This device is able to adapt even how extreme the environment is because it is completely waterproof, able to float in water and being Nitrogen-purged.

This thing is stable, very much comfortable to hold and highly durable. It offers bright and clear viewing due to its Porro prism system for a wide field of view. It has Premium Bak-4 prism and Fully Multi-Coated optics for bright and clear images.

It is designed with compass and rangefinder built-in for direction location while determining distance and size of objects. Following military standards, this device is equipped with non-slip rubber armor to absorb shock and is provided with a firm grip. You can also use a Tripod adapter for increased stability.

The Hooway Binoculars are designed to meet military standards so the manufacturer is making sure you can get everything you deserve.

It can be used in all weather conditions even under extreme rainstorms or high humidity conditions. Whatever outdoor activities you love, you can highly trust this device. Have one, without breaking the bank.

PROS:

  • Wide field of view
  • Bright and clear images
  • Tough
  • Durable
  • Increased stability
  • Waterproof/fog proof protection
  • Comfortable
  • High-quality
  • Affordable

CONS:

  • A bit heavy, measures 2.2 pounds

Check the price on Amazon

The Bottom Line

Having a good binocular pair can make hunting and other outdoor trips a big difference. The choices you make when buying one is important to achieve amazing outdoor experience.  High-quality pieces can be the best choice but finding them isn’t always that simple.Products mentioned above could help a lot.

We are doing deep research for your own hassle-free, quick and quality purchase.Do you have any experience with any of our selections?  If so tell us all about it in the comments section below.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kane Dane