A western hunter’s gear without a binocular is incomplete. Today, we will show the best binoculars for western hunting and help you have complete gear.
Many reviews and rankings have been done highlighting the best hunting zones in the world. Some of these zones are known for their abundant elk populace, others for whitetail deer, and others are lucky to have more than five game species.
Regardless of where you decide to go hunting be it Midwest, East, or out West, the choice of gear and specifically the optics part of it must be above par.
Western game hunting will often demand a different planning approach. The terrain varies and glassing sessions are much more prolonged than those in normal hunts. This is because you are exposed to larger scanning areas, we are talking about alpine regions, canyons covered with thick forests and endless rolling plains.
Thus, choosing the best binoculars for western hunting will be among the several defining factors of your experience in the field. In this article, we provide basic considerations to help in making the right pick and put together a selection of the best binocular models worth trying out.
Let’s now shift focus to some of the best binoculars for western hunting:
1) Bushnell Engage DX 12×50 Binoculars
For quality-inspired binocular service, check out Bushnell Engage 12×50 Binoculars. With a perfect blend of performance and affordability, Engage DX is arguably one of the best binoculars for western hunting.
The optics in the binoculars are incredible. An ED prime glass with the assistance of a locking eyepiece diopter is responsible for clarity in image resolution and contrast. To boost resolution and contrast functionality PC-3 coating is also applied to the prisms.
Image color is reproduced in its entirety because of the dielectric prism coating done. This coating ensures more than three-quarters of light let in is transmitted. Bonded to the glass are Bushnell’s EXO Barrier Protection, a coating that makes it scratch-resistant, and water, oil, dust, and debris-repellent.
The magnification power of 12 is a perfect fitting for long-range shooting. Light gathered by the 50mm wide lens is sufficient for hunting at first and last light. Eye relief is crafted to support use with or without sunglasses.
The binoculars are tripod adaptable. To protect from moisture and fog, this binocular is configured with an IPX7 waterproof rating. Best of all, the external part of it is made of rubber armor for a quick firm grip.
Specs
- Exit pupil: 4.1mm
- Eye relief: 15mm
- Length/ Weight: 6.5 inches/29.2oz
- FOV: 280ft@1000yds
- BaK-4 prism glass
- 12x magnification, 50mm objective lens diameter
Pros
- Quality multicoated glass for max light transmission and clearly defined images
- Resistance from destruction by weather/external elements due to the application of unique EXO barrier protection on glass surfaces
- Suitable for long-distance shooting
- Tripod adaptable
- IPX7 waterproof rated
- The roof prism type gives it a snug size that is easy to handle
- Packed with accessories- strap and case
Cons
- May feel bulky when held for long
- Limited lifetime warranty
2) Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10×42 Binocular
Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10×42 Binocular is another luxe choice for western hunting. Its optic setup is centered on Leupold’s advanced optical system renowned for its glare reduction capabilities when in brightly lit environments.
The classic configuration of this binocular makes it a top contender among the best binoculars for western hunting. Resolution and clarity much needed by any hunter are brought to life by the 42mm objective lens. For a better view of your target, you can adjust using the tactile focus dial that I easy to locate and use.
Twist-up eyecups give provision for generous eye relief to make long glassing sessions most comfortable. What’s more, the eyecups are removable and can be replaced in case they are damaged.
Compared to Bushnell Engage 12×50 Binoculars, BX-1 McKenzie 10×42 binoculars are a better selection concerning the field of view and weight. This pair offers 304 feet at 1000 yards field of view and is around 7 ounces lighter.
The close focus distance is 9.8 feet which are not ideal for hunters interested in observing a game that is within short range. If you are not intended in such observations, then this binocular will work just fine for you. The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10×42 Binocular is one of the best binoculars for western hunting for hunters on a budget.
Specs
- Weight: 22oz
- Linear FOV 304ft/1000yards
- Eye relief: 15mm
- Close focus distance: 9.8ft
- Built-in ¼-20 tripod adapter port
- Open-bridge form
Pros
- The ergonomic finish gives a solid grip
- Tripod adaptability takes the weight off your neck and hands
- Advanced optical system for HD image production
- Wide field of view
- Tactile knob for fast target acquisition
- Copious eye relief from the twist-up eyecup style
- Replaceable eyecups for easy cleaning or changing
- Water and fogproof
- Aluminum housing is tough on abrasion, cold and hot climate conditions
- Unlimited lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Misses the Twilight management system present in other Leupold optics usually an added advantage for dusk and dawn hunts.
3) Swarovski Optik 15×56 SLC Series Roof Prism Binocular
The specifications of the Swarovski Optik 15×56 SLC Series WaterProof Roof Prism Binocular translate to a successful hunting escapade. To start, these binos are packed together with a field bag, eyepiece cover, carrying strap, and objective lens cover.
Secondly, the High-definition optical configuration therein is composed of fluorite-containing glass with excellent light transfer for bright and finely contrasted images.
SWARODUR coating doubles up as an anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coating for long-lasting use. SWAROCLEAN lens coating keeps smudge and other residues away from the lens.
The top dressing is user-friendly as is the overall body shape of the binoculars which has an extended depression for a cushy feeling on the hand. The field of view under a 56mm lens diameter is satisfactorily enabling you to scan through the environment surrounding the target.
There is a central focus adjustment available and three click-stops in the twist-up eyecups. All these features lie protected within magnesium alloy housing with nitrogen fill to keep it moisture-proof.
For camouflage and steady grip, this housing has a dark green rubberized crowning. Save for complaints about its weight, this is one of the best binoculars for Western hunting.
Specs
- Magnification/ lens diameter: 15X/56mm
- 93% light transmission
- Can operate well in -13 to 131°F
- nitrogen filled
- 234ft/1000yards FOV
- 9m close focus distance
- 7mm exit pupil diameter
- 16mm eye relief
- Diopter adjustment provided
- Center focus type
Pros
- Coated lenses enhance durability
- Optimal light transmission
- Tripod adaptable
- Ergonomic grip
- Strong magnesium alloy housing
- Fog and waterproof performance
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Bulky
4) Vortex Optics Viper HD Roof Prism 10×50 Binoculars
Vortex wins in all matters of high-standard optic construction. They have produced several series and Vortex Optics Viper HD Roof Prism 10×50 Binoculars are one of the jewels in their crown. This high-end binocular is suited for any hunt and is one of the best binoculars for western hunting.
Western hunting or not, this is a go-to option for pristine images in the hunting field. Roof prism tech is applied and the prisms are covered with multiple layers of coating for increased light reflection and transmission for accuracy in color plus contrast.
The eyecups assume different positions to give room for comfy viewing when you have eyeglasses on and even when you do not. Focal differences are sorted out by the locking diopter situated on the right.
The chassis is made from rubber material and contains Armotek coating for surface protection. It combines argon and O-ring sealants to block the way for moisture and fog. For clear and unobstructed views when hunting, you can rely on the Viper HD 10x50mm Phase Corrected Binocular.
Specs
- Objective lens diameter: 50mm
- Magnification: 10x
- Weight: 28.4oz
- Exit pupil diameter: 5mm
- Eye relief:19.5mm
- Linear FOV: 278ft/1000yds
- Angular FOV: 5.3°
- Close focus: 8.2ft
Pros
- Extra-low dispersion glass for lifelike image portrayal
- Ruggedly built to survive Western hunting terrains and temperatures
- Multi-layer coating to amplify details on areas of focus
- Locking right eye diopter to balance out focal differences
- Large objective lens for extreme light transmission
- Waterproof
- Fog proof
Cons
- Difficulties experienced when mounting on a tripod
5) Nikon 7577 MONARCH 5 10×42 Binocular
The brings to the table a combination of great performance, capability and affordability making it one of the best binoculars for western hunting. Nikon MONARCH 5 10×42 Binocular has a careful build-up of features that make it well adapted to excellent light transmission in all light conditions.
A closer look at the specs will have you notice that these binoculars lenses are made from Nikon ED glass that provides razor-sharp views with perfect contrast. The glass is also a key player in the elimination of chromatic aberrations that are a nuisance in some binocular models.
Images, therefore, look brighter and more lifelike you can hardly miss your target. Coatings are an important aspect in optics as they give assurance of unmatched over 90% light transmission.
In Nikon 7577 MONARCH 5 10×42 Binocular the lenses bear several coatings to reduce chances of reflection, and glare that leaves room for lucid image formation.
Comfortable viewing for extended periods is actualized by the turn-and-slide eyecup design. Moreover, the design gives a wide apparent field of view angle to enable you to study your target and its surroundings better.
The framework has a non-slip feel so maneuvering the Western terrain with it on your hands is made easy. Built to brave all sorts of environments, this bino is undoubtedly one of the best to tag along for Western hunts.
Specs
- Objective lens diameter/magnification: 42mm/10x
- Central focusing system
- Close focus distance: 7.8ft
- Apparent angular FOV: 51.3°
- FOV@1000yds:288ft
- Eye relief: 18.4mm
- Weight: 21.6oz
- Roof prism design
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Multi-coated prisms for crystalline images
- Turn and slide design for comfortable viewing
- Non-slip framework
- Reduced chromatic aberrations
- Best for low-light hunting times
- Smooth central focus knob for the best view of the target
- Adept to extreme weather conditions
Cons
The rubber grip is susceptible to wear and tear
6) Maven C3 ED 12×50 Binocular
Maven C3 ED is the best binocular for the hunter who fancies a stationary style of hunting. 12x magnification paired with a 50mm lens diameter gives enough space for light travel which in turn sees the formation of detailed images.
Anchored in an extra-low dispersion ED glass approach for the lenses, these binoculars serve your eye just what you need to pick out an elk from its hiding. Maven takes things a notch higher and ensures that the glass is coated to enhance image resolution, brightness and contrast.
Its polymer body is graced with rubber armor fit for use even in harsh climatic conditions. In a simple single-bridge style, you get to enjoy fatigue-free viewing through the twist-up eyecups.
To add to that, you will love the fact that the binos are tripod-adaptable. While the field of view it offers may not be to satisfaction, Maven C3 ED 12×50 Binocular compensates it with an acceptable close focus distance.
Specs
- Schmidt-Pechan roof prism type
- Fixed magnification at 12x
- 1mm exit pupil
- 5m close focus
- 83m@1000m FOV
- 15mm eye relief
- Right eyepiece diopter setting
- 10-year warranty
Pros
- Easy to hold and use
- Tripod adaptable
- Heavy-duty body frame to support extreme use
- Extra-low dispersion ED glass for chromatic aberrations correction and anti-reflective power
- Dioptric correction provided for
- Short focus distance allows the hunter to get finer image details
Cons
- Limited field of view
7) Leupold BX-5 Santiam HD 15x56mm Binocular
Leupold BX-5 Santiam HD 15x56mm Binocular is an exceptional choice for western hunting as well. They are made for the hunter who is not worried about splurging on binoculars if they get value for their money.
Fully equipped with Leupold’s professional-grade optical system, this pair gives incredible light transmission in all lighting conditions. When presented in brightly lit spaces, this optical system works to reduce the glare effect on the eye, perfecting the image’s resolution, contrast, and clarity.
All this is made possible using the Abbe-Koenig prism present in the binoculars. The roof prism style is adopted for added accuracy and extended observation time.
The central focusing dial moves smoothly to make images clearer while the oversized eyecups provide comfortable viewing. These eyecups are twistable for eye relief. When damaged, the eyecups are easily replaceable.
External lens surfaces are DiamondCoat2 treated to resist abrasion plus it boosts brightness. Guard-ion is also a coating you will find on the lenses and is responsible for keeping off water and dirt.
Last on coatings is the armor on the housing with a non-slip texture for a tight grip. It is designed to be lightweight cozy and easy to handle for different hand sizes.
Specs
- Magnification:15x
- Lens diameter: 56mm
- Weight: 45oz
- Close focus distance:9.8ft
- Eye relief: 18mm
- Linear/Angular FOV: 231ft@1000yds/4.4 degrees
- Exit pupil: 3.7mm
Pros
- Multiple layer coatings for crispy images
- Professional-grade optical system for anti-reflective power and maximum light transfer
- Smooth focus dial to zoom in or out on images until vision balance is attained
- Oversized eyecups promote comfortable glassing
- Twist-up eyecups for extended eye relief
- Easy maintenance- replaceable eyecups
- Portable lightweight construction
- Tripod ready
Cons
- Feeble carrying case
8) Bushnell Fusion X 10x42mm Rangefinder Binoculars
Bushnell Fusion X 10x42mm Rangefinder Binoculars bring down the curtain on our selection of the best binoculars for western hunting. Bushnell is among the major league producers in the optics industry.
Their user-centered approach to designing these items is why they seldom miss on any hunters list of options. The stand-out feature of this binocular is that it eliminates the need for a rangefinder since it carries the ability to range as well as bring targets to focus.
ActivSync display technology helps bring out image details giving correct range estimations despite the prevailing light conditions. High-Definition Optical System (HDOS) makes sure you can spot a mule deer in a thick bush in the early mornings or very late evenings.
Operating modes allow for short to long-range shooting. Controls are well within reach but carefully placed to avoid accidental changes. This perfects your shot accuracy on all angles that are up, downhill and on level ground.
Fusion X is IPX7 waterproof protected and on the lenses is EXO barrier coating to keep safe from fog, dust, oil, water, and other debris. The dual-purpose blueprint on this one will save up space if you need a binocular with range finding function.
Specs
- Magnification:10x
- Lens diameter: 42mm
- Weight: 35oz
- Close focus distance:21ft
- Eye relief: 16mm
- Linear FOV: 305ft@1000yds
- Exit pupil: 4mm
- Battery powered reticle
- IPX7 waterproof protection
- Roof prism utilizing BK-7 prism glass
- Central focusing system
Pros
- Dielectric prism coating for phase difference corrections
- ActiveSync reticle that auto-adjusts to read in low light and black in bright conditions for a spot-on range regardless of environment lighting
- Bushnell HDOS is favorable for hunting at dawn and dusk
- Supports short and long shots
- Strategically placed dials
- The dual-purpose design eliminates the need for rangefinder saving on storage space
- Fully transferrable warranty
Cons
- Not tripod adaptable
Further Reading
- Best Spotting Scopes with Reticle
- Rangefinder Binoculars with Ballistic Calculator
- Best Elk Hunting Binoculars
- Best Long-Range Binoculars
How to Choose the Best Binoculars for Western Hunting
It is advisable to research any piece of binoculars before buying to learn more about its features, accessories, way of functioning, and other relevant gear it requires. Here are some tips to help you land the best binoculars for hunting in the West
Magnification
Magnification needs differ from one hunter to another. Binoculars with 10x magnification may be deemed comfortable by one hunter but when placed in the hands of another it may leave them craving for a 12x instead.
In western hunting, it is mostly recommended to increase magnification levels to avoid missing out on tiny details. Out on the hills, long-range shooting is inescapable and viewing from these distances will necessitate higher magnification.
Some of the animals are so well camouflaged in their environments that it will only take good magnification to pick them out. Furthermore, magnification dictates the amount of time and energy you will save or waste in stalking different types of games.
It is however worth knowing the pros and cons of high and low magnification before deciding on what level suits you best.
Read: Best Deer Hunting Binoculars
Great Performance in All Light Conditions
Sometimes the hunting environment is warm other times it is dull and cold. Having a binocular that can balance out the light conditions in any environment is key. This narrows down to the lens quality and how well it has been crafted to accommodate these changes.
You do not want your eye straining at the last light nor do you need annoying light flare hitting you during the daytime. How is the glass quality? Is it coated for excellence in light transmission? These are some of the bare minimums expected.
Superior light performance is what will help with the identification of a pronghorn antelope hidden within the woods when hunting whether it be dusk, dawn, or daytime.
Objective Lens
Objective lens size matters and it determines how much light is let into the binoculars. Small, mid-size, and full-size are the three major objective lens sizes. Small or compact size is anything less than 30mm, midsize is between 30 to 40mm and full size is over 40mm.
The broader the lens the more the light is let in. More light means clearer images, especially during the night. The downside of the big lens is the fact that they bring about the increased binocular weight which may not be a pleasurable thing when glassing for long hours.
Read: Best Compact Binoculars for Hunting
Field of View
The wide observable area through any optic is an added advantage in the hunting arena. It is no different in western hunting. Selecting binoculars with a large field of view makes keeping tabs on target movements less hectic.
Exit Pupil and Eye Relief
The exit pupil is the size of the light beam leaving the eyepiece of the bino and usually appears as a bright round disc shape. Exit pupil distance is calculated by dividing the diameter objective lens by the magnification power.
For example, 12×50 binoculars will have an exit pupil is about 4mm. A large objective lens diameter translates to a bigger exit pupil which is good for image clarity in low light. Also, when magnification is high, the exit pupil becomes smaller.
Eye relief is the distance between the observer’s eye and the eyepiece. Comfortable eye relief is what to look for in a binocular.
Weight and Size
Lightweight binoculars are what to carry along for hunting. They do not hurt your neck or get in your either. Lighter binos are also easier to hold up and steady for extended durations.
A harness does a great job in weight distribution but is an unnecessary cost when models of ideal weight are available in the market.
The size of binoculars to an extent depends on the prism involved. There are two major types: Porro and roof. The main difference is in the arrangement of the objective lenses.
In porro-designed binoculars, light takes a longer route as opposed to the roof design. This explains why roof prism designs are more compact, lightweight and the preferred option among Western hunters.
Read: Best Vortex Binoculars for Hunting
Focus type
The focus type may be free, individual, or central. Free-focus binoculars do not need adjustments for focus.
The individual type means that focus is adjustable independently for each side and the central focus has a ring located at the center that controls visual balance for all sides.
Durability
Consider the overall body quality when selecting hunting binoculars. The body, being the inner elements housing, should be tough on harsh terrains and weather. The coating on the body is essential in making it go for a long without getting damaged.
Many models have a matte finish on the surface to assist with this. Some have rubber bodies to help with a firm grip to avoid them falling off when in use. Filling with nitrogen or argon keeps the elements safe from water and instances of fogging.
See Also
Best Binoculars for Western Hunting FAQs
Q: What is the Twilight Factor in Binoculars?
The twilight factor is how effective binoculars can be when subjected to low-light hunting spaces. The larger it is the finer the image details in such environment setups.
The twilight factor is calculated as the square root of the product of magnification by objective lens size. For example, for 12×50 binoculars, the twilight factor is going to be 20.49.
Q: What Prism is Best for Binoculars?
There are two main classifications of prisms, roof and Porro. Roof prisms are increasingly becoming popular because of the compactness they offer. The eyepiece and objective lens are lined up in a straight path unlike in Porro prisms where they are not set in such a style.
Therefore, binoculars that fit with Porro prisms are bulkier because they need more space for this arrangement. Roof prism designs are easier to manage to give long-lasting use as opposed to porro designs that are vulnerable to misalignment of prisms when binoculars are dropped.
However, in terms of price, Porro is cheaper than the roof prism and has been around longer. That said, it is for you to weigh the pros and cons depending on what suits your needs.
Q: Which is better 12×50 or 10×50?
We cannot rule out and state any is best over the other as it is all reliant on what it is you are looking to achieve with these binoculars.
12×50 is best for viewing in darker setups if you are going to be assuming one position for a better part of the hunt.
It is also good for seeing small targets located at far distances. The downside, 12×50 is heavy so you need a good grip to hold steady.
10×50 is good for hunting involving a lot of movement and for when you need to focus quickly on objects. It is also lighter and hence easier to hold steady.
Conclusion
Getting the best binoculars for western hunting goes beyond the numbers and you will realize how much they differ in quality. If you planning on using them for a long time then cautiously consider the specifications of any of the options you come across.
How durable are they? What magnification do you prefer? Take into account how big a field of view you want, desired weight and overall construction too.
These are but some of the factors that you need to check off the list before settling, as we have outlined for every product mentioned in this article. With that, deciding on the best becomes very easy.