Best magnification binos?

[Bustercluck]

What magnification binos are you guys running in the mountains? My wife wants to get me some binos for my birthday. I have a decent spotter if I have to take a closer look at something so these will be just for quick looks and covering big areas.

Ive looked through some Leupold bx4 10x42 before and I think I’d go with those from anything else I’ve looked through in that price range. I’m just wondering if there’s any value in going 8x32 or 10x32 12x50.

[Frank grimes]

I use some meostar 10x50’s. I can hand hand hold them abit. But best on a tripod or sitting with elbows on knees.
iv always thought a really good pair of 8 or 8.5x, would be the best for hanging around your neck and glassing off hand, but everyone seems to go with 10x42.

[longrifle]

I've run a set of 8.5x42's for almost twenty years...Best compromise between field of view and magnification, plus they allow more light in then a 10x bino.


'rifle

[Elkaddict]

I've run a set of 8.5x42's for almost twenty years...Best compromise between field of view and magnification, plus they allow more light in then a 10x bino.


'rifle

^^^^This right here. I run 10X42s because that was what was available in the model I wanted at the time. Can't go wrong with either really, but I think Longrifle is bang on with his statement. I have an 8X32 truck bino that I use when walking the dogs and just general poking around. Compact and light, I really like them but as a main binocular they will leave you wanting in low light (10X32 even more so ). 50mm, too large and heavy for my taste.

[MRP]

10x40+ is my preference in good quality, 50mm in more economy models. I have a 10x50 a kid broke on me, I cut the bad side off. It’s what I use the most. I’ve been looking at 15ish monos lately.

[dapesche]

If you have a spotter then you have a tripod. I'd go 10x's. I liked 8s but I sold them and I'd only go back to an 8x32.

I have a 11x45 that I can hand hold decently well and they are great at off the tripod.

Really depends on the intended use.

[MarkyMark]

I like my 8x42s for field of view and not being so shaky offhand and for short glassing sessions not too far distances, but if l spent more time in open country with a tripod then 10s or 12s would probably be my choice. all depends on hunting style.

[Gateholio]

Lots of guys swear by 8X but I prefer 10x. I can hold them steady and if you practice a bit from various positions it's easy. I don't think I would go higher than 10x though. After that I'll use a spotter. I wouldn't feel handicapped by 8x though.

[nedarb2]

IMO - Timber hunting 8 x, slash / general hunting 10 x, distance glassing 12 x

[twoSevenO]

Don't go higher than 10x unless you plan to use them on a tripod. Chances are you won't hold them steady enough to get any decent field use out of them.