What spotter are you using? On the viper I ditch them all and rely on just the neoprene. Ive noticed when its in the pack its safe and when its out and the wind catches it. Well, your screwed regardless. Thats why I love the vortex warranty. Ive sent in 2 eyepieces that got dinged from a gust of wind blowing the tripod over. They just send new ones.