Optics Info Request

[cherise]

Hi there-I'm looking for recomendations on a mid level rangefinder and a pair of binocs for my husband for Christmas. Can anyone recommend brands? He is looking for 10 x 50 for the binocs and I have no idea where to start.

 

[txhunter58]

LAST EDITED ON Nov-08-05 AT 06:58PM (MST)[p]

I like the Bushnell line of rangefinders. I own the scout ($250). You can get cheaper ones, but they usually don't do well in rain/fog. This one is small enough to slip into a shirt pocket. The camo version is probably only worth it if your husband is really into camo. It probaby doesn't matter to the deer. You may be also able to find them cheaper than where I got mine, but here is the link at Cabelas:

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/t...nder&noImage=0&returnPage=search-results1.jsp

For binoculars I think Pentax has a lot going for it. The 10X50 DCF SP model is your best value/quality. The best price I have found is at 17th street photo at $524. The 10x43 model is $464. I recently compared them at a Cabelas store and the 10x50 definately gives a better view with more light, but is heavier (25 vs. 30 ounces):

http://www.17photo.com/subcategory.asp

If these are out of your price range, let me know the range you are in and I will make different recommendations.



txhunter58

venor, ergo sum (I hunt, therefore I am)

 

[quickdrawkinker]

Bushnell recently came out with a bino/rangefinder combo, but I think it's only an 8x36. Txhunter is right about the Bushnell rangefinders--probably the best bang for the buck. As far as bino's go, I'd look at the Nikon Monarch 10x42 or the Windriver Olympic 10x50's. I have a pair of the Windriver's and like them a lot--almost as clear as my Swarovski's(in good light!)

 

[txhunter58]

LAST EDITED ON Nov-09-05 AT 12:13PM (MST)[p]Here is a link for the Windriver binocs. I have heard good things about them as well. I think the Pentaxes are slightly better, but they are also more expensive. The windrivers are also less weight, which is an important consideration.:

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/t...lars&noImage=0&returnPage=search-results1.jsp

You should also note the comment about these being almost as good as more expensive models IN GOOD LIGHT. You generally get what you pay for in binoculars and the more expesive models are usually better in low light situations, which of course is important in hunting.

By the way, your husband better know what a gem he has!!

txhunter58

venor, ergo sum (I hunt, therefore I am)

 

[n2chukar]

What is your budget?

 

[cherise]

About $300 if I can find a good product for that price.

 

[easymoney]

LAST EDITED ON Nov-09-05 AT 06:32PM (MST)[p]There are some very good quality glasses out there in that price range. If you are willing to look. The best glass comes for the Germans at a high price, then the Japanese. They have some good ones that are very clear and waterproof.
I own some Nikon and Pentax binocs that will give some of the best a run for their money. Look at Steiners also, they have a pradator line that is pretty good as well. My Bushnell 800 yard range finder is going on it's 4th year and it too is good quality for the money.
Not everyone can afford the top of the line Swarvoskis and that is not to say you can't get good quality optics.
Try doing a google and you might find some real deals. Try sierraoutlet.com or sportsmansguide.com for Steiners.
Just "my two cents"...

 

[Bigjosh]

I got a pair of nikkon monarch last year and have been pleased with them they are 10 x 42 and i am not sure if they make a 10 x 50 the price was around 300 though. as for the range finder the leica I have is sweet but it is also expensive have a few buddies that like the bushnell and they vary in price should be able find a good one in your price

 

[txhunter58]

Is that $300 total, or for each item? It is a total budget, you would be better off just getting one of the items. If you buy both items for $300 which is doeable, you will not be mid-range, you will be in the cheap category, and if I were you, I wouldn't do that. Cheap is cheap. Binoculars and rangefinders are "investments" (don't laugh!). Buy in the $300 for each and you should get ones that he will use well for many years to come. If you go cheap, look for him to replace them in the not too distant future. At least, that is what I would do. I would rather only get one of the products if that were my choice.

Also, there was recently a poll asking bowhunters if they had to choose between a rangefinder and binoculars, which would they choose. 75% would opt for the rangefinder.

txhunter58

venor, ergo sum (I hunt, therefore I am)

 

[quickdrawkinker]

can't help but think how lucky some guy is to have his wife going online to talk about huntin' gear so she knows what to get him....

 

[cherise]

Thank you everyone for your responses. I'm looking to spend around $300 for each piece and just want to make sure i don't buy the wrong brand and what not. My husband is a spoiled brat when it comes to new gear sometimes, but he made up for it with a cruise to Alaska next year. I think it's bribery for a guided hunt for himself next year!

 

[txhunter58]

That is funny, we are going on an Alaskan cruise next year too (on our 10th anniversery)! Maybe I should start thinking about a guided hunt too!

Good luck.

txhunter58

venor, ergo sum (I hunt, therefore I am)

 

[Lien2]

cherise - Welcome.
I think the Leupold Wind River line of Binoc's are tough to beat for around $200-300. I have a pair and they are great.
I also have a Bushnell Rangefinder and it is good for the money, I think it is a Yardage Pro and goes for around $200.
Good luck, you have a lucky husband.

Lien2

 

[HuntElk4Fun]

I would 2nd/3rd/4th... whatever the Nikon Monarch ATB 10x42's. For the money, they are amazing. Usually with optics you get what you pay for, but IMO they are worth more than the $300 price tag. They aren't Zeiss/Swaro's but they are the next best thing. I bought a pair this year and already have had to buy 2 more for people in my hunting party that couldn't "hunt without them". They have everything you could ever want in a pair of Binos.

I would stay away from the Bino/Rangefinder combo. I had the Bushnell Quests and they were too bulky for me.

Rangefinders:
Bushnell/Nikon both make great ones for the <$300 range. I personally own a Nikon 440, but I bowhunt mostly and it has .5 yard increments.

 

[NW_bowhunter]

Thanks guys for giving the great advice to my wife....! Got a new range finder for christmas and it is sweet. (Bushnell) Now I just need to get some good optics.