Today’s spotlight is on the best binoculars for western hunting. When planning for a western hunt, getting the right gear is vitally important. The best binoculars for western hunting excursions need to be versatile enough for different adventures.
A quality binocular for a western hunter should give you enough power to locate game in open fields and stalk prey in thick timber.
What makes binoculars for western hunting is the invaluable functionality they offer. They bring you closer to the action and ensure that nothing is left undiscovered. A quality pair of binoculars also goes a long way to ensure that your hunting expedition is more fun.
When shopping for the best Western binoculars, there are several factors you need to consider so you find the best product for your needs. We have done the legwork and put up this list of top-performing binoculars for western hunting to make your selection process simpler.
Also, we have attached a comprehensive guide with the important factors to consider before you settle on any specific product.
So, without wasting time any further let’s jump right in.
1) Bushnell Engage 12×50 Binoculars
The Bushnell Engage 12×50 Binoculars stand out as one of the best binoculars for western hunting with its superior glass that provides stunning views.
This full-size binocular is uniquely optimized for use across vast terrains and open fields. This makes it a force to be reckoned with among the best binoculars for western hunting.
The wide field of view plus the high 12x magnification makes target finding a walk in the park irrespective of the distance. Besides, the oversized 50mm aperture gathers more light inside the optics and maximizes performance in low-light hunting environments.
Bushnell made this binocular to deliver peak performance from sunrise to sunset. It boasts extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses that guarantee stunning image quality, light transmission and color accuracy. Better yet, the roof prisms are phase-corrected to cut chromatic aberrations and color fringing.
To further enhance your viewing experience, this pair of binoculars is built with a long eye relief that makes glassing comfortable even with your glasses on.
Besides, the binoculars us nitrogen nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed to withstand the harshest weather conditions, and rubber armored to give you a secure, sure grip all through.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Waterproof and nitrogen-filled
- Broadband fully multi-coated optics
- Phase-corrected BaK4 roof prisms
- Twist-up click-stop rubber eyecups
- Protective EXO Exterior lens coating
- 12x magnification
Pros
- Good quality
- Easy to use
- Unrivaled clarity
- Excellent portability
- Tripod adaptable
- High magnification with low image shaking
Cons
- No drawbacks
2) Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10×42 Binocular
Having a high-quality and efficient binocular provides a clear advantage and there are no better binoculars to take your hunting experience a notch higher than the McKenzie 10×42 Binocular.
These top-performing binoculars are built on the legendary Leupold ruggedness to provide you with a stellar performance in the hunting field. It is simple to operate, lightweight and easy to maneuver around.
Built with a 10x magnification power, the binocular provides enough zoom power for long-range detection. Even better, it offers a generous field of view and high definition even when you are looking for a game in dense brush.
Optically, this pair of binoculars is designed around Leupold’s Advanced Optical System which offers true light transmission.
In harsh light, it provides the best-in-class glare reduction as well as the clarity and resolution every hunter demands in the hunting field.
For all-weather usability, the binoculars have a waterproof, fogproof and shockproof construction. It is also built ruggedly to be ready for use in any condition.
The binoculars reveal more details even in low light conditions making it one of the best binoculars for western hunting. If you’re looking for an effective hunting binocular to revamp your arsenal, the BX-1 McKenzie HD 10×42 is a prime choice.
Features
- 10x magnification power
- Fully multi-coated lens system
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Twilight Light Management System
- BaK4 prisms
- Open, bridge roof prism design
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Premium build quality
- Crisp clear optics
- Inexpensive
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Plastic knobs and eyepieces
3) Swarovski Optik 15×56 SLC Series Waterproof Roof Prism Binocular
If you are a seasoned hunter and want to take your hunting skills to a higher level, the Swarovski Optik 15×56 SLC Series Binocular is made for you. It is a reliable optic for all hunting applications from intermediate to long ranges.
The selling point of this high-end binocular is its user-friendly performance. It is simple to focus, easy to use and convenient to carry around in the field.
Besides, it provides accommodating eye relief to ensure comfortable prolonged glassing sessions.
This set of binoculars is built to last. It has a magnesium alloy housing with a dark green rubberized finish. The dual-textured rubber armoring enhances impact protection and gives you a secure anti-slip grip. Moreover, both the surface and exterior lenses are scratch-resistant for added protection.
For use in all kinds of weather conditions, the binoculars are waterproof and nitrogen-filled. It also brings to the table an HD optical system with fluoride-containing glass to enhance image brightness, clarity and color fidelity.
Features
- High 15x magnification
- Twist-up eyecups
- Center wheel diopter adjustment
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Magnesium alloy housing
- Dual-texture rubber armor
- HD optical system
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Great low-light visibility
- Crystal edge-to-edge clarity
- Comfortable on the hands
Cons
- Expensive
4) Vortex Optics Viper HD Roof Prism 10×50 Binoculars
Observe the world in crisp and unobstructed views with the Viper HD Roof Prism 10×50 Binoculars. Built ready for use in any environment, this pair of binoculars from Vortex is ideal for all hunting applications including western hunting.
Optically, the binocular employs XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics that increase light transmission through the whole spectrum. This results in the production of quality, clear and detailed sight pictures even when you are pursuing games in dense brush.
Besides, the large 50mm aperture draws in more light and enhances performance in critically low light settings.
Complementing the spectacular optical performance is a robust construction to stand up to the rigors of the trail. As one of the best binoculars for western hunting, this binocular pushes the limits of optical performance for the best quality images.
The optic tubes are sealed with solid O-rings and argon purged to provide reliable waterproof and fogproof performance.
Protecting the fragile optical components is a polycarbonate chassis that is lightweight and durable.
Vortex also provides objective lens caps and a single-piece ocular rain guard to protect the objective lens surface from scratches and elements.
Features
- XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics
- A large center-focus wheel
- Polycarbonate chassis
- HD extra-low dispersion glass
- Scratch-resistant Armortek lens coating
- Waterproof and argon-purged
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Simple to hold and use
- Easy to focus on various distances
- Stunning picture quality and clarity
- Guaranteed for life
Cons
- Relatively expensive
5) Nikon 7577 MONARCH 5 10×42 Binocular
As one of the best binoculars for western hunting, the MONARCH 5 10×42 Binocular benefits from the legendary Nikon quality to give you unparalleled performance in all hunting environments.
It has advanced glass and optical coatings that yield high-quality image views even in poor light settings.
Built with a powerful 10x magnification, the binocular will help you make detailed observations of distant subjects so you can make an ethical kill.
The generous field of view reduces the appearance of a handshake that is common when using a high-powered binocular and helps you find the game with ease.
Another outstanding feature of the binocular is its solid construction. It has a premium build quality that makes it snug to hold and use.
Furthermore, it features a lightweight and reinforced polycarbonate ATB chassis that protects the optics from damage. Also included is a rubber armoring with indented palm rests that give you a positive, anti-slip grip.
For added weather protection, these binoculars are O-ring sealed and nitrogen-filled. It is also equipped with rain guard covers that shield the objective lens from scratches, dirt and elements.
Features
- Powerful 10x magnification
- Large center focusing knob
- Closed bridge configuration
- Extra-low dispersion glass elements
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Reinforced ATB polycarbonate chassis
- Twist-up click-stop eyecups
Pros
- Outstanding durability
- Easy to focus
- Good balance of distance and field of view
- Lightweight and simple to use
Cons
- Cheap eyecups
6) Maven C3 ED 12×50 Binocular
Maven prides itself in making premium-quality binoculars and this is clear in the C3 ED 12×50 Binocular. Having this optic as your hunting companion will help you find the targets effortlessly and make you a better hunter.
This is one of the most lightweight full-size binoculars available on the market today. As such, you will have an easy time maneuvering in the field with it.
Moreover, it has dependable and solid housing to withstand rigorous use and the rough handling that hunting is often associated with.
The binocular has a large 50mm objective lens to draw in every last bit of critical light when you are hunting in poorly lit environments.
It has fully multi-coated lenses to increase light transmission and cut glare. On top of that, it uses extra-low dispersion ED glass that increases resolution and color contrast.
Other essential attributes included are a waterproof and fogproof construction, tripod adaptability and a well-balanced body to ensure comfortable handling.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Phase correction coating
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Durable polymer frame
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- 10x magnification
Pros
- Lightweight and well-balanced body
- Solid build quality
- Tripod adaptable
- Exceptionally clear and bright optics
Cons
- Narrow field of view
7) Leupold BX-5 Santiam HD 15x56mm Binocular
The high 15x magnification power in the BX-5 Santiam HD 15x56mm Binocular makes it ideal for pursuing games across vast, open fields.
It brings you closer to the action and together with the large 56mm objective lens ensures that you leave nothing undiscovered.
Another highlight of the binoculars is the rugged construction. It has a durable aluminum housing that is shrouded in a rubber armor coating that gives it a secure, anti-slip grip.
Additionally, the binocular has absolute fogproof and waterproof integrity that makes it ideal for hunting in all conditions.
This binocular is made with an Abbe-Koeing prism system that maximizes light transmission, clarity as well as resolution even in extended ranges.
It also boasts high-definition, calcium fluoride lenses to ensure clarity in all conditions and a fully multi-coated lens system that maximizes image clarity and contrast.
For added convenience, this binocular is equipped with a large, tactile central focus dial that is not just easy to find, but also simple to use. It also features an ergonomic, well-balanced design that is easy to grip in all weather conditions.
Features
- Waterproof and fogproof
- BaK4 prisms
- Fully multi-coated lens system
- Large, tactile central focus dial
- Precision ground lenses
- Durable aluminum housing
- Twist-up eyecups
- Xtended Twilight Lens System
Pros
- Good low-light performance
- Ergonomic, lightweight design
- Long eye relief
- Easy to use
Cons
- Expensive
8) Bushnell Fusion X 10x42mm Rangefinder Binocular
The Bushnell Fusion X 10x42mm Rangefinder Binocular is another premium-quality binocular ideal for western hunting. It provides spectacular performance in any hunting environment so you can find the game without breaking a sweat.
This binocular has a built-in rangefinder that shows you how far the targets are and how big they are. The rangefinder has ARC technology that gives you true horizontal distance as well as the line of site distance. With this information, you will be able to plan your shot irrespective of whether the target is in an uphill or downhill position.
Moreover, this binocular is made for use in all kinds of weather conditions. It has an IPX7 waterproof construction and an EXO barrier lens coating that is hydrophobic. With this coating, you are assured of a clear, unobstructed view no matter what nature has in store for your hunt.
The superb-ranging accuracy is complemented by advanced optics that provide high-quality sight pictures even in critically poor hunting conditions. Also included is a high-definition optical system that yields optimum viewing clarity from sunrise till when the sun sets.
Features
- Built-in rangefinder
- High-definition optical system
- Water-repellent EXO barrier lens coating
- IPX7 waterproof construction
- ARC technology with +/- 1yard accuracy
- ActivSync reticle technology
Pros
- Superb low-light visibility
- Ranging mode for both rifles and bows
- Ideal for a wide range of hunting environments
- Bright and clear optics
Cons
- The rangefinder could be better
Further Reading
- Best Long-Range Binoculars
- Rangefinder Binoculars with Ballistic Calculator
- Best Deer Hunting Binoculars
- Image Stabilized Binoculars for Boating
- Best Vortex Binoculars for Hunting
How to Choose the Best Binoculars for Western Hunting
Here are important features you need to take into account when shopping for the best binoculars for western hunting.
Magnification
Magnification should come first when shopping for binoculars for western hunting. It is important to get a reliable pair of binoculars that has the right zoom power. Typically, you will need 10x magnification or more for this kind of hunting.
The higher the magnification power, the longer the distance you will be able to cover. You will also be able to use the binoculars in different environments across vast ranges.
Build Quality
Quality in binoculars is extremely important as it determines how long the binoculars last and how reliable they will be in the field.
Try and look for a product whose chassis is crafted from aluminum alloy or magnesium. Such binoculars are not only durable but also light in weight.
The best binoculars for western hunting also come with rubber armor that shields the optics from damage and provides a slip-resistant grip. They are also waterproofed and fogproofed for use in rain, mist and adverse weather conditions.
Read: Best Marine Binoculars with Compass
Objective Lens
Since western hunting largely involves looking for game across vast ranges, it is best to get a binocular that has a large objective lens of 40mm and above.
This part is responsible for drawing in light and the larger the diameter the more light it collects. A larger objective lens also maximizes low-light performance and gives you a wider field of view.
Field of View
Another important thing to consider is the field of view the binoculars present. This is the width of the picture you see when you look through the binoculars.
It is measured in yards per 1000 yards and the larger this number is the better. Binoculars with a large field of view are the best for hunting as they let you find the game easily and monitor the fast-moving targets without breaking a sweat.
Weight
Weight in binoculars is often determined by the type of glass and materials used to make it and the size of the objective lens.
For western hunting, you will be moving from one point to another looking for the game. You will also be carrying other hunting gear not just the binoculars.
It is therefore important to look for the lightest pair of binoculars possible. That way, you won’t be adding any unnecessary weight. Light binoculars that weigh less than 2 pounds are also easier to hold and simpler to operate.
Read: Best Night Vision Binoculars
Best Binoculars for Western Hunting FAQs
Q: What is the Best Binocular Magnification for Western Hunting?
10x and 12x. The best binoculars for western hunting have a magnification power between 10x and 12x.
With such magnification, you will have an easy time finding targets in different environments as well as different ranges.
Q: Are Binoculars Good for Western Hunting?
Yes. Binoculars are a great companion for western hunting. They bring you closer to the game you are hunting down, improve your vision in the critically low light settings and help you place accurate and ethical shots even in the most difficult hunting environments.
Conclusion
Finding the best binoculars for western hunting doesn’t always have to be a taxing, unpleasant task. With proper information, you will be able to find a good product in any price range. Look at each binocular we have listed above keenly, see if it has all the features you need then choose accordingly.