Binoculars, what goes to the field with you?

FORD#1

New Member
Jul 14, 2014
21
0
Michigan
After reading posts, and doing extensive research I purchased Swarovski EL Range 10x42s. These binos are wicked. I had to turn the brightness level all the way up. The angle compensation is a very innovative idea. Slightly bulkier than my last pair, but I have been out of the loop for years. Optics have come along way. I will say I was most influenced by UMPQUAHUNTER on the Swarovski brand. Not sure why but I feel this guy knows his optics. Bought my nephew the same pair. I told him they should last him 20 years. He looked at me and said "Really?". FORD#1
 

7stwluver

Member
Mar 27, 2014
95
0
Piedmont america
Older Burris 10x40's and zeiss 10x there isn't much difference except in lowlight or glassing into shady areas then the zeiss really excel. Seriously considering the zeiss rangefinder/bino combo. Just looking for a good deal on a used set.


Sent from NSA wire tapped device.
 

rcfireninja

Active Member
Mar 3, 2014
389
12
Rapid City, SD
I am looking to upgrade from my bushnell buckhorn 12 x 50. After reading these posts for the money swarovski is the best bet. I don't have that much to spend so I am thinking either vortex, zen-ray or zeiss. Looking at cl and classifieds to try and find a deal.
 

FORD#1

New Member
Jul 14, 2014
21
0
Michigan
rcfireninja, One thing I learned in life. Save up your money and buy the best. I know that the Swarovski models aren't for everyone but think about it. How old are you and how many years are you going to hunt? Work some overtime, sell some items you don't use anymore, whatever it takes. I bought 2 pair of the Swarovski EL Range 10x42s. I left the receipt on the table for my wife to stumble across. The look on her face was priceless. LOL. If you absolutely cant swing the Swarovski, then look at the Zeiss 10x42s. At just a tad over 999.99 they are worth a look. FORD#1
 

OregonJim

Very Active Member
Feb 19, 2014
795
0
Oregon Coast
After reading posts, and doing extensive research I purchased Swarovski EL Range 10x42s. These binos are wicked. I had to turn the brightness level all the way up. The angle compensation is a very innovative idea. Slightly bulkier than my last pair, but I have been out of the loop for years. Optics have come along way. I will say I was most influenced by UMPQUAHUNTER on the Swarovski brand. Not sure why but I feel this guy knows his optics. Bought my nephew the same pair. I told him they should last him 20 years. He looked at me and said "Really?". FORD#1
Near as I can figure my SLC 8X30s are 18 years old and the only flaw is the black metal tag is now shinny.
I bet I could sell them used for about what we paid back then.
Can't say that about too many things I own!
 

Doublefork

New Member
Jun 20, 2014
22
0
Wisconsin
10x42 zeiss victory with the green armor I bought them in 2006 I just sent them in to have the rubber armor replaced and have 8x42 vortex diamondback, 65MM Pentax spotter.
 

FORD#1

New Member
Jul 14, 2014
21
0
Michigan
rcfireninja, regardless of the choice you make, start saving NOW. One obstacle to beat in a large purchase is getting started. Don't look at the big price tag, start a bino fund and get aggressive with it. Your fund will grow while you are researching those binoculars that will be your companion for years. Also this will take the pressure off your decision. I am going to Zambia Africa in 2016 but am planning the financial end of the trip now. Once again, don't sell yourself short on hunting optics. You wont regret it. Good luck, FORD#1
 

crockett

New Member
Sep 13, 2011
7
0
I use a Swarovski 7x42 that I bought a long time ago -- and it's the best purchase I've ever made! I also have a nice pair of Leupold Cascades in 10x42 and although they're good, I can see more detail with the Swarovski even when the game animal is a mile away!
 

Shooter

Active Member
Feb 22, 2011
244
4
Washington
I have swarovski 10x42 el's and swarovski 15x56's slc's for using with my tripod. Next year I am thinking about getting rid of the 10x42 el's and getting the 10x50 el's. I have owned a lot of glass and swarovski is dang hard to beat. Instead of getting the new el's next year what I really should do is get a swarovski spotter. I have been using a leupold 12-40x60 gold ring for a long time and it's over due to be upgraded.
 
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BowHunterJake

New Member
Jun 9, 2014
21
0
I recently upgraded to these Leica 8x42s. What an incredible piece of equipment!? Best upgrade in gear I have ever made.
 

woodtick

Veteran member
Feb 24, 2011
1,492
0
Jim Bridger County, Utah
Leica 10x42 Geovid HD-b and Swaro 15x56 SLC for almost all hunts. If I'm chasing cow elk in our dark timber patch here on the mountain or running around checking trail cams I use some Zeiss Conquest 8x40 HD's.