Updated March 2023
Binoculars are an important tool for hunters to help spot and identify game at a distance. Some western hunters use binoculars for extended periods of time in an attempt to locate animals prior to moving in on them. Alternatively, many Midwest hunters use binoculars to identify deer in fields or woods from a treestand. Binoculars help hunters view game closer at a distance than they would be able to with the naked eye. Binoculars magnify the terrain and show it in greater detail as if you were closer. With all of the different binoculars on the market, this article gathers some of the most popular and trusted binoculars that are used by hunters everywhere.
Related: The 10 Best Rangefinders for Bowhunting
Recommended All-Purpose Rangefinders for Bowhunters:
- Vortex Diamondback
- Nikon Prostaff 3S
- Nikon Monarch 5
- Vortex Crossfire
- Bushnell Legend
- Leupold BX-1 McKenzie
- Cabelas Intensity HD
- Vortex Viper HD
- Nikon Aculon A211
- Bushnell H20 Waterproof Prism
How to Choose Binoculars and Things to Consider when Purchasing
- Magnification – The magnification, or power, of a binocular is an important aspect to consider when purchasing. Most binoculars have a magnification of 8 to 12X. The magnification is always the first number on a binocular. For example, a 10X42 binocular makes an image appear 10 times closer than when viewed by the naked eye. The larger the number, the larger the image will appear at a distance.
- Objective Size – The objective size, or aperture, determines the amount of light that can enter the binocular. Objective size is the second number on a binocular and is measured in millimeters. For example, 10X42 binoculars will have objective lenses of 42mm in diameters. Objective size is important because the larger the light gathering area, the brighter the image will appear.
- Field of View – A binocular’s field of view is usually designated by a degree with an average value of between 5 and 10 degrees. Field of view can also be measured by how wide a landscape appears in the binocular at 1,000 yards away. A large field of view is helpful, but a field of view that is too large can distort the image.
- Eye Relief – Eye relief is the distance behind the eyepiece lenses at which the image is in focus. Similar to a riflescope, relief determines how far the binoculars can be held from your eyes and still remain in focus. The average eye relief on most binoculars range from a few mm up to 25mm.
- Features – You should consider the features you will be getting at the price point you are looking. Some popular features include coated lenses, extra durability, waterproof, fogproof, and accessories included such as a strap, case, lens covers or lens cloths.
- Size – Binoculars come is a variety of different sizes. You should think about the size of a binocular and how it will fit in your bag, pocket or harness. With most items you carry while hunting, you want to avoid anything too bulky that will get in the way or are cumbersome to carry.
- Price – Finally, price is always a major consideration. Most good binoculars run anywhere from $150-$500. Nowadays, you can even get a dependable pair of binoculars for under $100. Depending on your budget, you will want to weigh the different features and the quality when choosing a pair of binoculars.
The 10 Best Binoculars for Bowhunting
1. Vortex Diamondback – The Vortex Diamondback is a quality, high performance binocular from a well-respected optics brand. This 10X42 binocular brings images into clear focus for crisp detail. The Diamondback is designed to perform well in low light conditions and features a large field of view and has a coating that enhances resolution and contrast. The multi-coated optics on these binoculars also result in enhanced vision at long distances. These binoculars are also waterproof and fogproof and constructed with a rugged rubber armor for maximum protection. The Vortex Diamondback is also compatible with a tripod adapter, allowing use on a tripod.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 16 mm
- Field of View: 6.6 degrees
- Weight: 24.4 oz
- Waterproof and fogproof
2. Nikon Prostaff 3S – The Prostaff 3S by Nikon is designed for brighter views and features an optical system created from Nikon’s Eco-Glass. The multi-layer coatings provide high light transmittance across the entire visible light spectrum resulting in a bright and clear view. The long eye relief on these binoculars help provide a clear field of view even for those with glasses. The Prostaff 3S is waterproof and fogproof for use in just about any condition. On top of all of the features of the Prostaff 3S, it is constructed with a rugged rubber-armored coating to provide a non-slip grip, event in the wettest conditions.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 15.7 mm
- Field of View: 7 degrees
3. Nikon Monarch 5 – The Nikon Monarch 5 is a lightweight binocular that performs well in low light conditions. With Nikon’s ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass lenses, the Monarch 5 offers sharp and high-contrast views in all types of conditions. The lenses on the Monarch 5 create improved resolution and provides brighter, more natural looking images. The small and light design of this binocular makes it easy to carry along in the woods or store in your backpack. Nikon’s high-eyepoint design on these binoculars provides a clear view for everyone, even those with glasses. The Monarch 5’s are a well-performing product with a quality design that is made to last. Another similar pair of binoculars are the Nikon Monarch 7.
Features:
- Magnification: 8 or 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Durable rubber-armored body
- Smooth central focus knob
4. Vortex Crossfire – The Vortex Crossfire is a quality binocular at an affordable price. The Crossfire features fully multi-coated lenses for impressive optical quality combined with a wide field of view and enhanced depth of field. These binoculars are designed to increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. The Crossfire is completely waterproof and fogproof and is constructed with rubber armor to provide a secure, non-slip grip and durable external protection. The Vortex Crossfire is an awesome binocular with many high performance features at a price that won’t break the bank.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 15 mm
- Field of View: 6.2 degrees
- Weight: 23.3 oz
5. Bushnell Legend – The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD is a popular binocular from Bushnell made with high quality glass that delivers outstanding color, resolution and contrast, even in low-light conditions. The low-dispersion glass helps to bring out crisp details to allow you to see images clearer and brighter. What makes this binocular different than others is Bushnell’s RainGuard HD Technology that keeps water, fog and oily fingerprints from distorting your vision. This means that when water drops from rain or snow hit the lens, they bead up into small droplets instead of covering the entire lens. With its rugged, waterproof housing, the Legend Ultra HD is ready for the elements. Overall, the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD offers incredible clarity, quality and durability all at an affordable price.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Weight: 22.5 oz
- Waterproof/fogproof
6. Leupold BX-1 McKenzie – The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie is an awesome binocular that deliver significant magnification in a lightweight package. The combination of a large field of view and magnification power provide easy long range detection and crystal clear images. The BX-1 McKenzie is lighter that most other binoculars in size and features Leupold’s Twighlight Light Management System that helps to see more in less light and is capable of adding up to 10 minutes of extra use at dawn and dusk. This binocular combines outstanding resolution and clarity with a rugged, compact design that’s waterproof and built to handle the hardest conditions.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 13.7 mm
- Weight: 22 oz
- Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
7. Cabelas Intensity HD – Cabela’s Intensity HD binoculars enhance your long-range hunting visibility with extreme clarity in all situations. The premium-quality HD extra low dispersion glass objective lenses dramatically enhance image quality, making them exceptionally clear when viewing wildlife against high-contrast backgrounds. The Intensity HD preserves natural image colors while enhancing resolution for true-to-life views at greater distances. These binoculars are ultra-tough and extremely lightweight with a rubber-armored magnesium-alloy finish to withstand any condition. The Intensity HD is completely waterproof and fogproof and is rated to withstand submersion for up to 30 minutes. Overall, these binoculars are one of our top picks bases on quality, durability and price.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Field of View: 340 feet at 1,000 yards
- Weight: 26.1 oz
View this binocular on Cabelas
8. Vortex Viper HD – Another great option from Vortex is their Viper HD. This binocular is provides hunters with premium options without the premium price tag. The Viper HD has an HD optical system that delivers crisp resolution, clear colors and exceptional clarity. These binoculars are one of the lightest, most compact, full size binoculars on the market. The fully multi-coated lenses are designed to increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. On top of all of these features, the Viper HDs are completely waterproof and fogproof and are coated with a hard, scratch-resistant finish for added protection.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 17 mm
- Field of View: 6.5 degrees
- Weight: 24.9 oz
9. Nikon Aculon A211 – What makes these binoculars different than most others is the adjustable zoom of 10-22X. This unique zoom feature delivers a wide range of magnifications that can be quickly tailored to any situation. The multi-coated and large 50mm objective lenses are designed to deliver a high quality image in all different lighting conditions, making them great from dawn to dusk. Nikon’s Eco-Glass lenses deliver extreme clarity and precision in at a lighter overall product weight. These binoculars also have a durable rubber-armored coating for any condition. The Aculon A211 is a great option for those that want powerful magnification at an affordable price.
Features:
- Magnification: 10-22X
- Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Field of View: 199 feet at 1,000 yards
- Non slip grip
10. Bushnell H20 Waterproof Prism – The Bushnell H20 has a 100% waterproof construction and textured, non-slip rubber pads for added grip in all situations. These binoculars feature Bak-4 prisms for quality viewing and multi-coated lenses or extra light transmission making images appear brighter and clearer. The twist-up eyecups on these Bushnells make them comfortable for use with or without glasses. These binoculars are extremely durable and provide a quality view at an affordable price.
Features:
- Magnification: 8 or 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 17 mm
- Field of View: 305 feet at 1,000 yards
- Weight: 25 oz
Most Popular Brands
- Vortex – Vortex has become one of the leading hunting optic brands in recent years. Vortex makes quality riflescopes, spotting scopes and rangefinders. Many hunters trust Vortex for their high-end, modern and innovative products. You simply cannot go wrong with Vortex binoculars.
- Nikon – Nikon is most known for their popular camera equipment and have their own hunting optics line including binoculars and gun scopes. Nikon’s binoculars are a direct reflection of their quality camera products. Nikon dominates a large portion of the binocular market and for good reason.
- Leupold – Leupold is known for their high-end riflescopes and their binoculars are made with the same quality. Leupold products tend to run slightly higher than other brands but they are well worth the price. All in all, Leupold products are a great choice.
- Bushnell – Bushnell sells a variety of hunting-related products including firearm scopes and rangefinders. Bushnell produces quality products and the brand has been trusted by hunters for years. Bushnell has proved they are able to produce rugged and long-lasting products that are quality made.
- Swarovski – Swarovski is one of the most high-end optics brands on the market. They make riflescopes and binoculars that regularly retail for over $2,000. If you have the money to spend, Swarovski is the way to go. View Swarovski binoculars on Amazon.
Budget Friendly Binoculars under $100
1. Celestron Outland X – The Outland X by Celestron are a great pair of binoculars at an affordable price. These binoculars have multi-coated optics and BaK-4 prisms that help obtain high resolution and high contrast views. The Outland X is designed for enhanced colored images and crystal clear views. These binoculars are waterproof and fogproof and are designed to withstand all weather conditions. The Outland X has a protective rubber covering that makes them durable for the toughest hunting situations.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 14 mm
- Field of View: 5.6 degrees
2. Bushnell Trophy – The Bushnell Trophy is a highly popular binocular among many hunters from all over. These binoculars offer ultra bright, razor sharp images that have sealed nitrogen inside for 100% waterproof and fogproof dependability. The Bushnell Trophy has superior durability and ruggedness and is made for just about any condition. These binoculars are built to last and are a great option at an affordable price.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 42 mm
- Eye Relief: 15.2 mm
- Field of View: 325 feet at 1,000 yards
3. Leupold BX-1 Rogue – The BX-1 Rogue is a budget-level binocular from Leupold that comes with fully multi-coated lenses to ensure maximum brightness, clarity, contrast and color. This combined with the BaK-4 prism system delivers a consistent crisp and clear image. The BX-1 Rogue is both waterproof and fogproof and has an easy-grip rubber armor coating that makes them ready for all conditions. The RX-1 Rogue has the well-known Leupold name at a price that won’t break the bank.
Features:
- Magnification: 10X
- Lens Diameter: 25 mm
- Eye Relief: 15 mm
- Field of View: 5.6 degrees
- Weight: 12.7 oz
Summary
As you can see, there are many different types and styles of binoculars out there. The products listed in this article are some of the most popular and trusted binoculars by hunters. Any of these binoculars listed are great options that will serve you well in the field. Using binoculars when hunting is helpful to identify and spot deer in the distance. Choosing a pair of binoculars comes down to personal choice and your intended use. For more articles and buyer’s guides, please check out other posts from Bowhunting Depot!
