Backpack Hunting Binoculars

I think the Minox Binocs and small spotter are a pretty good value that work well. I have compared them directly to some 2K binocs in the field and we both saw the same animals in most conditions with the exception of extreme twilight.

I have some Vortex 15X binos for when weight is not critical that are nice as well.

Having said that, I have looked through some pricey Leica Binocs … and if I could get a deal, I would jump on them in a sec. I thought they were absolutely fantastic.

I think there's a lot to be said for lower magnification in cheaper binos. The lower quality glass is less of an issue. In that vein the 6×30 Leupold Yosemites are well regarded and under 20 oz. The Vortex Crossfires are on the lighter side for full size 8x42s, and around 200 bucks.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/binoculars/eagle-optics/eagle-optics-denali-8×42-roof-prism-binocular

8×42
eye relief = 18mm
waterproof / fogproof
weight = 21.9 oz
on sale $179.99

These are probably made by Vortex. Eagle Optics has great reputation and good return policy.

I've purchased from them but have no connection with the company.

NM, started a different thread rather than take this one in a different direction.

Carl
Nikon Monarch 7's are a good value in a quality lightweight binocular. But don't take my word for it, here is a link to expert reviews on many options:

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/Page.aspx?pid=2674

Thanks for the suggestions and thoughts. Much appreciated! I'll take a look at those ones that were suggested.

Dave – are your hunting areas near Glacier or do you travel east? Having spent 9 days in Glacier NP area last year I found the density of the woods and terrain very comparable to the Cascades. I found your comment on lower power interesting. Kind of makes sense if you're not glassing miles of open terrain. Is that your reasoning?

I hunt both sides of the Bob, getting into both thick woods and more open prairies and alpine terrain. I've been using Meopta 6.5x32s with good success. I'd like a pair of 10s for alpine hunting but to equal my Meoptas I think I'd need to spend 800-1000, and that upgrade isn't a priority until I get a better spotting scope.

Good binos require high density glass and that is heavy.
Modern design has reduced the weight somewhat with aspherical elements but manufacturers can't cheat with digital trickery processing as they do with camera lenses.
Lowering the magnification (6x suggestion) keeps the level of brightness at a lower weight too.

take a peek at the Steiner 8×30's, these are a reasonably priced, relatively light (17 oz) small to mid-size bino; I used Steiner glass exclusively for 25 years as a game warden- good glass, very weather resistant, they stand up to abuse and if they fail they have a good warranty

I'd recommend going with 8×32 over 42. Most people can only notice a slight difference in light gathering in very difficult light and you add a lot in size and weight. I haven't tried them but the Sightron Blue Sky II 8×32 are regarded as some crazy bang for the buck. More info here:http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=211793

I'm currently using zeiss conquest hd 8×32 and can't imagine ever feeling the need to upgrade. I'd highly recommend checking the demo list at cameralandny. Great deals, full warranty, and like new in my experience.

For the money Nikon makes some nice 8X 32 binoculars. 8X42 are too large and heavy for backpacking.

"For the money Nikon makes some nice 8X 32 binoculars. 8X42 are too large and heavy for backpacking."

Well, yes and no. "It depends."

My Leica Ultravid 8×32's aren't exactly light, and the cheaper Nikon Monarch 8×42's are about the same weight. However, the Leica is a superb instrument and are certainly handier/smaller than any 42mm bin.

I've owned Various Nikon, Zeiss, Swarovski and Leica 8×30/32 bins over the last 30 years. They're all I use for all my hunting, both on the flats and backpack mountain hunting. I've personally never found the need for a 42mm binocular, even though the top tier 42mm's are simply outstanding instruments. I just make my compromise with the handier 32mm's… I just wish my Leica's were 7×32's rather than 8×32's!

As nice as Nikon's EDGE and Monarch binos are, If'n I wuz to buy new 8X32 glass I'd get MEOPTA binoculars.

They are not inexpensive by any means but are the equal of much more expensive binoculars in almost every optically measurable way. i.e. ED glass with excellent color rendition, overall clarity, edge-to-edge clarity, negligible spherical aberration, perfect alignment of the tubes, speed of focus, diopter settings, etc.

This means you can use them literally for hours and not get a headache caused by eyestrain.