For spot and stalk hunting I have been going back and forth from a heavier and more expensive RF bino (Zeiss RFs) to a small 8x32 or 10x32 bino paired with a Sig rangefinder. What do you do? One expensive optic or two smaller optics? I'm not worried about spotting scopes with this topic just binos/rangefinders.
What are your archery optics for out West?
- Thread starter DanPickar
- Start date
El Serio
Very Active Member
- Feb 1, 2018
- 503
- 1,330
8x32 with a separate rangefinder for me. I believe my current binoculars are only 20 oz. While I like the idea of the integrated binoculars and rangefinder, I want nothing to do with any binoculars that are as large and heavy as the current rangefinder offerings. I just had to work out a system to keep the rangefinder where I can get it into action without excess movement or getting straps tangled. Picked up a SIG rangefinder last fall as well, because my Leica didn't have angle compensation within 70 yds.
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Bonecollector
Veteran member
Vortex Viper HD 10x42. I always have them on me and it's never been an issue. I keep it simple and do not change for any reason. Range finder is attached to my chest harness or around my neck inside my clothing.
Their size for one. They feel like a normal pair of binoculars in your hands. They are nice optics.
BOHNTR
Very Active Member
Back when I was guiding I owned a pair of the Vipers. They were awesome for the price. I regret selling them because they don't make them in Japan any more.
rcfireninja
Active Member
Vortex viper 10x42 as well, either my razor 11-33 or viper 20-60 with tripod depending on how far I plan on hiking. Rangefinder around my neck on lanyard.
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CODAK
Active Member
I'm a 10X50 guy for all bowhunting situations. There are always in my bivy and hardly can tell they are there I've worn them so much. I like the size to be able to figure out tactics for a stalk without using a spotter. Or make the call on a bull that is in the timber in a point restricted area. Makes judging easier, stalks easier. I pair it with a tripod for lengthy glassing scenarios or if I really want to judge an animal. If I can't tell it's a shooter with these binos then I am crazy. Spotters are for scouting, this set up is for hunting. From the whitetail woods to highcountry of Colorado it works like a charm for me. I would never go less, never go more!
Spend as much as you can up to $5/600 after that you don?t get much more for your money until you get Inti the Swarovski level stuff.
packer58
Very Active Member
I run 10X42 Euros and a Kilo 2000, i understand the potential advantage of carrying just one optic but wonder how much of a hassle it is adjusting the focus back and forth from normal glassing to ranging up close.
PeteD
New Member
Work2hunt
Veteran member
Timberstalker
Veteran member
Vortex 10x42 and Leupold RX1000 for me. When I’m elk hunting I rarely pack the binos, don’t need them.
wy-tex
Veteran member
I have a couple of pair of compact binos I use sometimes when hunting only in dark timber. Leica and Leupold 8x20 and 10x25 I believe.
Very light and easy to conceal in my shirt. I also carry a small rangefinder. The compacts are just easy to maneuver for me, give up some light gathering ability. Distances are so close in dark timber that I just don't carry my 10x42 's. I've been considering a good monocular also for quick scanning and close encounters with elk.
Very light and easy to conceal in my shirt. I also carry a small rangefinder. The compacts are just easy to maneuver for me, give up some light gathering ability. Distances are so close in dark timber that I just don't carry my 10x42 's. I've been considering a good monocular also for quick scanning and close encounters with elk.
Catahoula12
Very Active Member
Nikon Monarch 7s 8x42 binocs with a Nikon Monarch 7i VR rangefinder. This combo works well for me and my eyes. Both items mentioned fit well in my hands. Great set up for archery and rifle hunting. Good thread....