Budget Binoculars

[thompie505]

Hey guys,

I'm new to hunting and after using a crappy old set of binos last year I'm looking to upgrade. I still have a pretty tight budget (Thank you BC housing market) but would definitely like to get something that will serve me well for the next 5 years until I can invest in a better product. So far the Vortex Crossfire 10x42, Bushnell Trophy 10x42 and the Bushnell Legend L series 10x42 have been my top 3 contenders. I'm able to score a pretty good deal on all of these through a friend with the trophy being the cheapest, followed by the crossfire then the Legend at the top end of the budget. Any experience or advice is much appreciated!

Thank you

[todbartell]

get the Legends if you can make the $ work

[thompie505]

The legends are about $20USD more than the crossfire, I just haven't found too much information on them because they're relatively 'new". Any reasons in particular you suggested the Legends?

[Blockcaver]

Maven C1 10x42 for $325 US were really decent when I looked at them at the Reno Sheep Show last winter....inside the convention center glassing as far as I could into dark corners.

[sillyghillie]

check out opticsplanet.ca they have some deals from time to time.

[Sportster]

IMO the scorpion 10x42 are the best mid priced binoculars on the market for 350$.I've owned a pair for years and have been more than satisfied with them. That being said I just upgraded to a pair of Nikon laserforce rangefinder 10x42 binoculars, very nice.

[wingmaster]

Nikon monarchs. Seen the monarch 5 on sale for under 400 lately

[thompie505]

I ended up going with the Bushnell Legend L series. Got them for $140USD. Binocs and harness plus tax for 170US. I'm hoping they'll be good for the next few years

[lwing]

Don't ever look through alpha glass, you'll hate everything else, best cheap glass I've seen Zen Ray, think prices have gone up, used to be $400 a few years ago

[Iron Glove]

Cabella's Intensity HD, 10 x 42 $250, if you shop in store and have a VIP Invite then 20% off so $200.
I've had a pair for over a year now, love them so much bought the Son In Law a pair for last Xmas.
Hunted last year in all conditions, no fogging at all, crisp and clear, important for my aging eyes.
Are they $500 + beaters, nope but probably the best buy in the $300 and under range.