January 2018 - Optics Den

8x42mm Binos vs. 10x42mm Binos

When it comes to binoculars, 8x42mm and 10x42mm are pretty much the standard measurements for the best overall views. There are smaller and larger pairs of binoculars that would be ideal for certain situations, but 8×42’s and 10×42’s are certainly the most popular and widespread among manufacturers.

So what makes these two sets of binos similar and dissimilar? At first glance, you might not notice the difference between the two. Design-wise, they’re very similar to each other unless we factor in wide-angle binos as well. More on those later.

Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm Hunting Binoculars

In case measurements are unclear to beginners, let’s clear some things up. In an 8x42mm model, for example, the 8 refers to the level of zoom the binoculars can reach. The 10mm refers to the diameter of the objective lens within the binos. The wider the diameter of the objective lenses are, the more light the binos gather and the brighter the overall image. The larger the zoom, the closer you can focus in on a specific object.

Large vs Small Binos

Given what we know, this doesn’t mean that the binos with the largest measurements out there are going to be the best on the market. The reason we have different measurements is that different measurements are better in different situations.

The difference between the two may seem small at first, but once you get a feel for the detail provided by both, you’ll see what we mean.

Let’s look at both models individually.

8x42mm

The 8x42mm model is a pretty average size for binoculars, making them some of the best all-around binos in the industry. Despite similar measurements, not all 8x42mm models are exactly the same. Some companies use specific manufacturing techniques to allow just the tiniest bit more of light to pass through the lenses.

8×42 models provide ample zoom and field of view (FOV) for their user without trying to add too much flare.

Here are a couple of examples of situations where 8x42mm models would be ideal:

Opera-for a smaller field of view
Stadium Events-you may not need to track high-speed objects, but see many things at once
Hunting-for ideal target acquisition in ideal conditions, normally shorter range
- 8×42’s also have slightly larger exit pupils, eye reliefs, and field of views, making them more ideal overall for low light conditions

10x42mm

The 10x42mm offers the same or similar level of light transmission as 8x42mm models but offers a small boost in the zoom factor. For a more powerful zoom, you’ll get clearer images so you can identify objects and animals at long range.

Here are a couple of examples of situations where 10x42mm models would be ideal:

Birding-for fast moving animals
Hunting-for target acquisition of animals in the distance, usually at maximum range
Twilight Factor-while the 8×42’s model can acquire targets in low light, its the clarity and resolution of the object/animal that matters. This is where the 10×42’s excel

Wide Angled Binos

Wide angled binos offer an even larger field of view with the same measurements. For activities such as birding which require fast movement and a wide field of view as much as detail acquisition, wide angled binos are the preference. For birding in particular, you may prefer one model over the other depending on what environment you are glassing.

As we mentioned, these optics come in the same 8×42 and 10×42 models, but their design is noticeably different, (see image on the right).

Overall

8×42’s are generally more stable than 10×42’s, meaning you’re not shaking as much at maximum range. Seeing an object in the distance doesn’t mean necessarily mean you’re going to get unreal image quality. On the other hand, 10×42’s are going to pick up more detail each time you glass a certain area.

Both models of binos have their advantages and disadvantages. This means you’ll want to conduct your research carefully and plan out what you want to use a particular pair of binos for before you buy them.

Click here to browse our picks for the best binoculars of 2018. You can also find many individual reviews of specific binos in our binoculars category.

Binoculars

Binoculars vs. Spotting Scopes

The question to bring one set of optics on an outdoor excursion over the other will always be tricky. It depends on the situation and the power and versatility of your optics.

In this article, we’ll narrow down some areas where you should prefer one over the other. First, though, let’s take a look at the main differences between the two optics.

Spotting Scopes & Binos: What’s the Difference?

The key difference between these two optics is size and portability. Binoculars are typically smaller and designed to be held by hand, while most spotting scopes are larger and work best with a tripod. For hunters on the move, binos are often better because there’s no setup required. But hunters who stay in one area for longer periods of time — not to mention birders and nature watchers — can make the most of a spotting scope.

The other key difference is power and range, with the spotting scope usually coming out ahead in these categories. We’ll talk more about those features next.

Spotting Scopes

On average, spotting scopes are going to have more powerful focus and longer range than your basic set of 8x42mm or 10x42mm binoculars. If you recently purchased a spotting scope or are looking to get one, here are a couple of situations you should consider:

Hunting: For long distance hunts where the terrain is variable, spotting scopes will help you determine key details about the environment. When you are sitting in a location where you can observe the terrain around you for miles, the scope will be preferable to a set of binos.
Birding: In order to have a successful birding experience, acquiring the most intricate details of birds is the priority. It’s no surprise that two different bird species may only be separated by a small and hard to see color scheme. With powerful zoom and light transmission, the spotting scope is going to be your best friend.

The inconvenience with spotting scopes is that the larger ones (which are usually the best), require tripods for the best stabilization. Tripods add excess weight, which is at best undesirable and sometimes out of the question. If you’re planning on hiking long distances or going up steep terrain, you might want to think twice about bringing a spotting scope.

woman in camo looking through a spotting scope

Image via Upland Optics

That powerful range and magnification is where the spotting scope really shines, though, and that’s worth considering in many instances. Magnification on a scope can be several times greater than binoculars, and that can make a vital difference in many hunting situations. For avid birders, spotting scopes also offer a greater ability to find elusive species.

In terms of bulk, there are some spotting scopes that you can freehand. This means less overall weight, but it also means smaller and less powerful lenses. Even so, these are often more powerful than binos. Some hunters even prefer the feel and usability of a spotting scope over binoculars.

Click here to read up on our picks for the best spotting scopes on the market. You can also check out OpticsMag’s guide to buying a spotting scope for more recommendations and advice on choosing these high power optics.

Check out these quicks tips for using a spotting scope effectively.

Binoculars

While not as powerful as spotting scopes, binoculars are certainly the most widespread and versatile optics in the outdoor adventuring world. They weigh less than spotting scopes and some models do produce impressive power, focus, and light transmission.

With binoculars, the ease of access and relatively lightweight construction is the most important feature. You don’t have to take off your backpack or set up a tripod every time you need to glass terrain. Compared to spotting scopes, they’re a whole lot more convenient.

man looking through binoculars

So, where should you be using binos? Rather, the question should be where shouldn’t you be using binoculars? Binos can be and are usually used in just about every outdoor excursion there is. They are also commonly used in indoor events such as opera or theater, where people sitting far away may not be able to see the stage that well.

To ensure the best possible experience with your binoculars, be sure to read up on and understand the specs, which will detail magnification and range. Additionally, you can find out how they hold up during low light conditions (morning and evening).

Click here to see our choices for the best binoculars you can buy for any situation.

Bottom Line

Having quality optics completely alters your ability to hunt and to view wildlife. Both spotting scopes and binoculars offer distinct benefits on their own. Ideally, you would carry both, but that’s not always realistic.

There isn’t a primary set of criteria that dictates which optics are better than others. Sure, spotting scopes on average sport more powerful and longer reaching lenses. However as we’ve discovered, the most power doesn’t equate to the best experience.

If you want to just carry one, you can ask yourself a few questions to make a decision.

What’s the terrain like?
What will the weather be like?
What time of day will you be out there and for how long?
Are the animals/objects you want to see well camouflaged or reclusive?

Spotting scopes will give you the benefit of better magnification and range, but be sure to bring a sturdy tripod for the best experience. Binoculars offer portability and easy access, so these are the clear choice in many cases (particularly intensive hunts). You’ll experience the differences when it comes to those factors, but the most important thing is to have high quality glass and the best specs for your situation.

Binoculars

Zeiss Terra Series Binoculars Reviews & Buying Guide

Zeiss Terra 10×42

For the outdoor enthusiast, nothing enhances the experience quite like an amazing pair of binoculars. If you’re looking for the best of the best, look no further than Zeiss. Zeiss has always been at the top of the list as far as quality is concerned. Nobody in the industry thought a quality, but also affordable binocular was possible, but Zeiss was determined to prove them wrong. Thus, the Terra ED was born. The Zeiss Terra ED binoculars are the ideal companion for any outdoor activity in any conditions.

About the Zeiss Terra Series

These binoculars have a waterproof casing and will do its job even under the toughest of conditions. The ED in the Terra ED stands for Extra-low Dispersion: meaning a more high-end glass used in the binoculars that disperse the light wavelengths passing through the glass with more ease and at a better quality. The ED glass gives a sharp distinction between colors and significantly reduces chromatic aberration, which is the inability to bring different wavelengths of light into focus. Using ED glass in their binoculars, Zeiss guarantees a sharper image quality to the outdoor aficionado.

They are compact and light, easily fitting into one’s pockets. To make these binoculars lightweight without sacrificing sturdiness, Zeiss uses a glass-reinforced polyamide, meaning they can be lightweight, but also durable. To paint a better picture, natural polyamides include: silk and wool. Because of the use of this polyamide, owners can enjoy a long-lasting viewing experience without suffering any fatigue in their hands or arms.

Their optical specifications are better than most other binoculars. Because of optical precision and a hydrophobic multi-coating, these binoculars have a very versatile use and are a good instrument for any adventure around the globe. With just an easy flick of your index finger to focus, you’ll never miss a second with a smooth, fast focus. Zeiss guarantees great images with conventional colors. Depending on the model, the minimum object distance is 1.5m or 1.9m, making it able for you to observe objects up close precisely and impressively.

Available Models

There are currently six Zeiss Terra ED models:

Terra ED Pocket 8×25

These binoculars have an operating temperature range of -20 degrees to 63 degrees Celsius. They feature an 8x magnification and are also waterproof. The pocket 8×25 has a low weight of 310g and a wonderful folding design, making it extremely compact and easy to transport. They are available solely in “grey-black” and are best suited for travelling and general outdoor activities.

Terra ED Pocket 10×25

This model is also waterproof, weighs 310g, and has a temperature range of -20 degrees to 63 degrees Celsius. They are also available solely in “grey-black” and are best suited for travelling and general outdoor activities. This model, however, features a 10x magnification.

Terra ED 8×32

These binoculars are available solely in “cool grey” and have a compact size, weighing in at just 510g. They guarantee sharp images even when a subject moves quickly because of the precise focus mechanism. They fit well in your hand and feature an 8x magnification. The temperature range is -15 degrees to 60 degrees Celsius, and is also waterproof. These binoculars are best for nature observing and outdoor activities.

Zeiss Terra 8×32

Terra ED 10×32

You’ll get a 10x magnification, even in the smallest of details with this model. Much like the Terra ED 8×32, these binoculars have a low weight of 510g and a compact design, making it easy to fit in your hands. They are waterproof and have an accurate temperature range of -15 degrees to 60 degrees Celsius. Available solely in “cool grey”, they are best for nature observation and outdoor activities.

Terra ED 8×42

This model and the Terra ED 10×42 are the heaviest of the bunch, weighing in at 695g. Even though it’s the heaviest of all the models, it is an all-around performer and still light and compact enough to travel anywhere with you. These binoculars feature an 8x magnification, are waterproof and have a working temperature range of -15 degrees to 60 degrees Celsius. This pair is virtually indestructible and has an attractive design, available in “deep blue”, “black” and “cool grey”. This model is best used for hunting, nature observation, and any outdoor activity.

Terra ED 10×42

Much like the Terra ED 8×42, these binoculars weigh 695g, are waterproof and have a temperature range of -15 degrees to 60 degrees Celsius. They are available in “deep blue”, “black” and “cool grey”. This pair has an increased magnification of 10x, however. You’ll experience an extremely clear picture quality with its superior observation capability over long distances. These binoculars are best for hunting, nature observation and any outdoor activity.

If you’re looking for great quality binoculars at a price you can afford, look no further than the Zeiss Terra ED models. Sure to please, these binoculars will give you picture-perfect quality with a durability you can’t beat. Zeiss has delivered yet again with this amazing product, making the perfect outdoor device for any interest.

See all the Terra binoculars here!

Rifle Scopes

The Best Scopes for a 30-06 Rifle

The .30-06 cartridge was first introduced to the United States military in 1906 to replace the .30-03 rimless service round. It was developed to satisfy the necessity for lighter-weight, higher velocity, service rounds with pointed (spitzer) bullets, and was used for seven decades after that.

Today the .30-06 is one of the most popular hunting and sporting cartridges in the world – and for a good reason. As a target round, this one is handy, reasonably priced, and accurate. As a hunting cartridge, it is moderate enough in recoil to be used by even the most inexperienced hunters, and flexible enough to cover the vast spectrum of North American game species: from varmints to mid-sized and large game.

It is only logical that a caliber with as much versatility and performance as the .30-06 should be mated to an excellent scope. Failure to do so not only limits its functionality but also affects your user experience. It does not take an expert to know that you cannot randomly pair a rifle with any scope and achieve the best results. Yes, you might hit your target; but with as much effort as it takes to eat soup using a fork.

So, esteemed shooters, that brings us to the trillion dollar question: Which are the best scopes for the .30-06? Reading this article shows that you have found out, in one way or the other, how difficult it is to find the right scope for this traditional, yet grand scope. You see, a caliber this popular ordinarily has a surfeit of scopes out on the market that is compatible with it, if not made directly for it.

What to Look For

But you should not give up just yet. Because, though there is not one scope that we can name as the overall winner, there is certainly one that will be a perfect fit for you. Just as each hunter’s needs differ from those of the next, so are each scope’s characteristics. Manufacturers have tried, and still, are trying, but they have not yet found a way to build a single scope that will cover everything. Therefore we will evaluate the ones that come close enough and leave it to you to choose the one that suits you best. But before we do that, it is imperative that you first understand how your new sight will work. So – with much apologies to the pros – I will give you a crash course on the front-to-back basics of the scope, and the standard terminology used before I start hitting you with big words.

Here are the scope basics from front-to-back:

The objective lens is the front glass, and its size is directly proportional to both the field of view and amount of light transmitted.
The scope body also known as the tube is usually one inch or 30mm in length. You should ensure that the rings that hold the tube in place are of the same size as the tube.
Adjustment knobs change the windage and elevation of the scope – although some larger magnifications feature parallax adjustment as well. Standard is one click changes impact ¼” at 100 yards. They can be adjusted using finger pressure, a flat-tip screwdriver, or turrets.
The eyepiece, the focus knob, and the magnification adjustment make up the rear.
The reticle is the series of fine lines in the eyepiece used as a measuring scale. Some are battery-powered.

It will also not hurt to know a few of the terms used:

Single or fixed power means that the scope’s power cannot be adjusted while variable power means the opposite.
Objective size is the size of the objective lens. The larger it is, the bulkier the scope usually is.
Lens coatings repel water and block some wavelengths. They determine how much reflection you might experience.
A charged scope is one that has been filled with nitrogen or oxygen to keep out fog r moisture.

Top Scopes for the .30-06 Caliber

You might have heard of the old thumb rule which states that you should only buy a scope that costs more than half as much as your rifle. I beg to differ with that line of thinking. Most experts out there and I believe that price should only be a factor if you are on a budget. That is because there are cheaper brands that work as well as pricier ones, just as there are expensive ones that ride on brand name but offer very little functionality.

Here is our list of the best scopes for your rifle in no particular order.

1) Vortex Optics Diamondback

Though one of the newest companies in the scope and optics industry, Vortex has not only proven to be worth their salt but are giving the bigger names a run for their money. The Vortex Diamondback (HP) 4-12×40 is no exception. For starters, it is equipped with an array of high-quality features that you will not find in some of the pricier comparisons.

The 40mm lens is made of XD extra-low dispersion glass to increase resolution to the already large field of view. Its XR multi-coated lens maximizes light transmission and reduces reflection to give you a squint less and glare less hunting experience. The 4-12x magnification allows you to push your rifle to its limit at ranges above 1000 yards.

As is the case with most rising stars, Vortex strives to produce the highest quality products in a bid to establish itself and cement its position in the industry. The Diamondback is rugged, to say the least, and the HP in its name is an acronym for “High Performance,” and it shows for it. Click here to see it.

2) Leupold VX-2 3-9x40mm with Duplex Reticle

From the state of Oregon comes the Leupold VX-2, an all American scope for a genuinely American caliber. Leupold’s seven-decade experience in scope-building is reflected in the VX-2’s ruggedness and excellent material quality. And as if to flaunt its superiority, Leupold provides a lifetime warranty for an almost indestructible product.

Leupold goes green with the Index Matched Lens system with lead-free glass and edge blackened lenses. The result is an environment-friendly scope with best-in-class clarity. Waterproof and argon-filled to prevent fogging, it enables you to enjoy your rifle in any weather. What’s more, zeroing has been made much quicker and more precise with the finger adjustable 1/4 MOA click windage and elevation adjustments.

The ergonomic eye piece now features a fast focus that eliminates the need to adjust a lock ring every time you want to change focus. The Leupold VX-2 is a functional and reliable scope that will not disappoint. Click here to see it.

3) Nikon ProStaff 4-12×40 Black Matte (BDC)

Nikon ProStaff 4-12×40’s two-hundred-dollar-ish price tag is a surprise to many seeing how fully loaded it is. A perfect blend of ruggedness and aesthetics, this sight, will satisfy even the most demanding hunters and shooters. The finger adjustable turrets of the Prostaff 4-12×40 can be quickly reset to zero allowing for quick adjustments in the field.

Hunting in the most undesirable conditions is made possible by the nitrogen-purged, O-ring sealed tube and the sun shade adjustable lens. Brilliant sight picture and versatile magnification range come in handy in any hunting situation, from heavy timber to the open prairies.

Multicoated lenses increase light transmission up to 98%, and precise hand-turn 1/4-MOA click adjustments get you zoned in quicker. Nikon’s patented BDC reticle gives you an advantage at long distances but still provides normal sight picture for shorter-range shots while the crosshair itself is the aiming point.

Although recoil is not much of an issue with the .30-06, the Prostaff 4-12×40 still offers generous and consistent eye relief. Nikon Prostaff Rifle Scopes include a lifetime factory warranty. Click here to see it.

4) Nikon Buckmaster 3-9×40 BDC

The Nikon Buckmaster 3-9×40 is what you get when Nikon, a premium lens maker, and Buckmaster, a top-class scope builder, team up. Buckmaster riflescopes constitute Nikon’s medium priced line, and the 3-9x40mm model is the most popular of them all. Nikon itself describes this scope as a: “Classic variable, excellent for game hunting from deer to varmints.”

The Buckmaster is Nitrogen-filled, and O-ring sealed for waterproofing and fog proofing purposes. The Nicoplex reticle, a better copy of the famous Leupold Duplex, is standard on the 3-9x40mm.

The multi-coated 40mm objective lens allows nearly one hundred percent light transmission, making this the right scope for dawn or dusk hunting. 3.6″ of eye relief is enough to protect you while still offering plenty of field of view throughout the magnification range. With a lifetime warranty sweetening the deal, this scope competes with others that double the price. Click here to see it.

5) Leupold VX-I 3-9x50mm

Here comes another Leupold, and it is almost identical to its VX-2 sibling save for its slightly lower lens quality and optical clarity. The 3-9x50mm is considered the best of the VX-I models because it offers you more magnification range and larger objective lenses than the others.

Shooting at distances of about 400 to 500 yards is a bargain for its price and an objective lens of 50mm makes this possible even in dim conditions. The VX-I 3-9x50mm guarantees professional performance on an amateur’s budget and will revolutionize your next hunt.

Expectedly, VX-I 3-9x50mm shares the same ruggedness and reliability with its siblings. Likewise, it is offered with a lifetime warranty. Click here to see it.

6) Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40

You may wonder why I have decided to include the Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40 while its overall specs are almost similar to those of both the Buckmaster and the ProStaff 4-12×40. I was also reluctant until I realized two important things: the ProStaff 3-9×40 is one of the best-reviewed riflescopes on the market, and it strikes a balance between the other two. It has earned notoriety for its capabilities in deer hunting, especially in thick cover. It is also very useful at short ranges and is the scope of choice for stealth hunters.

Multi-coated, multi-colored, and layered with anti-reflective compound, the optical system is made for high performance and efficiency. Similar to the ProStaff 4-12×40, its patented BDC enables you to adjust the bullet drop to up to 600 yards and allows you to stay and hold ‘dead-on’ at various ranges. The crosshair plays as the aiming point for close range shooting and the parallax setting increases the scope’s precision.

It is suitably fog proof, shock proof, and waterproof, given that it is Nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed. Its simplicity makes it perfect for beginners, and its light weight is ideal for situations that call for speed.

This is the right alternative if you are after a scope that will fulfill your hunting and shooting needs with as little complication as possible. Click here to see it.

7) Simmons 8-Point Truplex Reticle, 3-9x50mm

Not many experts would have expected the Simmons 8 Point Truplex to make it to this list, but I dared to include it. Now this is for those of you that are not afraid to explore the roads less traveled – and well, to save a few bucks in the process. As easy on the wallet as it is on the eye, the 8-Point riflescope offers more high-quality features than any other in its class.

Fully coated optics ensure a brighter, higher contrast image while the 1/4-MOA SureGrip audible click windage and elevation adjustments allow for fast and effortless changes. The 50mm objective lens is more than generous for its price range, but hey, no one is complaining. 3-9 power magnification at its best, this waterproof, fog proof, and recoil proof scope will offer you more than you bargained for – literally. Click here to see it.

Binoculars

Celestron SkyMaster 15x70mm Binoculars Review

While Celestron is more known for their telescopes, they sell all sorts of optical equipment including microscopes and binoculars. You don’t normally see Celestron binoculars in the field while you’re hunting and birding. That’s because Celestron manufactures some big binoculars. These 70mm binoculars are apart of the SkyMaster line of optics and isn’t even the largest set of handheld binoculars on the market.

Celestron as a company specializes in viewing objects very far away and objects too small for our naked eyes to see. The SkyMasters feature enormous 70mm lens, capable of getting clear images of the moon in the right settings and conditions.

Here we’ll explore the Skymaster 70mm’s, and where you can use them best.

Optics

Let’s take a look at the overall power of these 70mm optics.

15x magnification
Field of View (FOV)-4.4 degrees
- FOV at 1000yds-230
Multi-coated lenses
Diopter range- -4 to 8
Close Focus Distance 52.5

70mm lens are some of the biggest lenses you can have on handheld binoculars. As a result, you have some of the greatest light gathering power on the market. The diopter settings range from -4 to +8, meaning you can adjust to low or high light situations.

Uses

Since these binoculars are made by Celestron, you can already guess what they’re good at. The moon is one of the brightest objects in our night sky and with the 70mm’s variable diopter settings, you’ll have no difficulty seeing it up close when the sky is clear.

These diopter settings work the same during daytime and landscape viewing as well. They come with a tripod adapter as they do weigh about 3lbs free handed. Birding and nighttime sky watching are going to be the biggest and most logical uses for the 70mm’s. 70mm means that you’re going to soak up whatever is giving off light, notably objects in the sky and the moon.

Versus Other Sporting Optics

These binoculars are big, hence why more often than naught, you’ll see them hooked up to a tripod. They don’t make the best hunting binoculars because they are designed for extreme range viewing rather than detailed viewing. Remember, just because a pair of optics has big lenses, doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get the best details of an object.

Swinging these binoculars isn’t going to be easy due to their size and weight. Compared to wide angled binos and other smaller sporting optics, the 70mm’s aren’t the most logical to take on hunts when you’re lugging them around for hours at a time. Unless you plan to stay in given area, you’re better off using a smaller pair.

Overall

It’s astonishing to note that the 15x70mm’s aren’t the biggest or smallest pair of binos in the SkyMaster series. Regardless, the 15x70mm’s sit in the middle of the SkyMaster series and provide astounding images for a cheap price compared to other Celestron products.

The 15x70mm’s don’t have the power to see stars or planets beyond the moon up close and personal but provide a sort of middle ground between mainstream sporting optics and telescopes.

Click here to shop the SkyMaster 70mm’s.

Rifle Scopes

Zeiss Conquest 5-25x50mm Riflescope Review

Power, reliability and high-magnification sum up the Zeiss Conquest 5-25x50mm Black Rapid Z 1000 Riflescope. If you want a scope that’s going to last and is one of the most powerful magnification rifle scopes in the industry, this scope is a good bet. It’s a mid-range scope that packs a lot of features into its small package. This is a good scope if you’re looking to get some mid- to extra-range hunting practice.

Overview of Features

High-resolution & five times zoom for extreme versatility and accuracy.
German workmanship: ensures that the highest quality materials, expert craftsmanship and expert attention to detail are maintained.
Compact profile, which adds a sleek look to your rifle.
Available with RAPID-Z or standard Z-Plex. RAPID-Z provides increased accuracy by using a pre-calculated reticle.
High-precision mechanics allow for one-quarter MOA adjustments and 100 percent repeatability from click to shot.
Package comes with an objective lens cover and scope.
Five-year no-fault policy
Lifetime warranty against defects in manufacturing

Carl Zeiss Sport Optics

Expert hunters know that Carl Zeiss Sports Optics is the industry standard for hunting scopes. With each new line of scope that comes out, the accuracy is enhanced and features are improved. The HD5 line of scopes brings with it a five times magnification rate, which is a welcome addition to any hunter. With near-perfect light transmission and high clarity, this line of scopes is sure to please any hunter. Unlike lesser quality scopes, this scope is able to provide a crystal-clear image across the entire spectrum. It also has good light gathering capabilities through the fading daylight hours. Long range and small game hunters will both find this scope a welcome addition to their arsenal.

Technical Information

The tube comes in at a one-inch diameter, with a one-quarter MOS adjustment click value. The scopes exposed turrets are capped, and it comes with finger adjustable turrets that can be reset to zero. There is no zero stop on this gun and it has a medium turret height, which helps to give it a sleek design. The scope comes complete with a fully multi-coated lens and fast focus eyepiece. The scope is lacking is a sunshade, illuminated reticle and there are no rings included.

Scope Construction and Adjustments

The scopes reticle focal plane location is second, and it has a side focus to adjust for parallax. Parallax can cause issues if you don’t view the scope correctly, but this feature can help you correct for it. It has variable power settings ranging from five times to 25 times. The reticle construction is glass-etched, making for a more reliable and durable part. The construction is water and fog proof, and if you drop your scope, it can also withstand shock. The maximum internal adjustments for windage is 40 MOA and elevation is 60 MOA.

Practical Application and Use

The one drawback to the scope is that it does come in a bit on the heavy side. The new Rapid-Z 1000 scope was newly designed for 2013. It has the only reticle in the complete line of New Rapid-Z products that is designed for use with specific calibers — the tactical 7.62 or the .308 Win. Overall, this product has the most advanced super zoom in the industry, precision mechanics and a state of the art reticle. This is a scope that will last a lifetime, and virtually eliminate the need for any other scope.

Binoculars

Bushnell PowerView 20x50mm Binoculars Review

The Bushnell PowerView series is a wide range of wildlife and tactical binoculars that feature high powered optics across the board. Bushnell offers a lot of choices when it comes to binoculars, so why the 20x50mm model?

The PowerView 20x50mm offers a good blend of magnification and light gathering power. The Powerview is another version of the popular wide-angle binos, which are different than your average sporting optics model.

Optics

Close focus: 45ft/13.7m
Field of View at 1000yds: 170ft
Exit Pupil-9mm

The PowerView’s optics aren’t spectacular, but they do have something called Insta Focus, patented by Bushnell. While not exactly working the same way as a camera focus, it keeps objects in focus with a push of a button. It’s extremely useful when viewing things at maximum range.

The field of view (FOV) at 1000 yards is smaller than most top of the line sporting optics. Most of them have FOV’s between 200-400 yards at 1000 yards, but the PowerView does get close. The better the quality, usually higher the price.

While PowerView’s usefulness at maximum range drops off, detail and coloration from 0-1000 yards is still astounding.

Uses

The 20x50mm are perfect for just about every outdoor viewing activity from hunting to concerts and theater. Light transmission within the lenses is also optimal, so you should have no problem seeing objects at long range while indoors.

Extreme range viewing might not be the PowerView’s strong point, but at closer range, it really picks up on detail. Many users have complimented the PowerView’s versatility as an animal watching optic as well hunting.

Compared to Other Sporting Optics

You’ll find that the 20x50mm compares well with other binoculars that are marketed specifically as “sporting optics”. One of the biggest perks about the PowerViews is that they are remarkably cheap compared to other sporting optics.

They feature a tough rubber skin to absorb and protect against dings and scratches. They may sport the biggest lenses in the PowerView line but the overall construction is still relatively compact. They won’t be cumbersome to carry on extended trips.

Overall

The PowerViews are at a slightly wider angle than mainstream hunting binoculars. They combine some of the perks of sporting optics with more compact binos to deliver a good all-around performance.

While there is no limit to where you can use them, you’ll have the best chance of using them for closer range activities regardless if it is indoor or outdoor.

Click here to shop the PowerView 20x50mm model.

Red Dot Sights

AT3 Tactical RD-50 Red Dot Sight

The RD-50 red dot sight by AT3 tactical that’s optimized for the AR system. While it’s optimized for this rifle, it’s not uncommon to see it on shotguns, handguns, hunting rifles, or any other weapon with a Picatinny or Weaver rail system. It will come in three different sizes depending on the type of mount you want (none, mid, and high).

Optics

Power / Obj. Lens: 1x25mm
Reticle: 2 MOA Red Dot
Lens Coating: Multi-coated
Weight: 3.6 oz
Mounting Length: 1.1 inch / 28 mm
Total Length: 2.4 in / 61.8 mm
Exit Pupil: 22mm
Windage/Elevation Click Value: 1 MOA per click

Features

There are 11 settings featured on the dial that indicates the power setting of the red dot. The sight’s overall construction allows for both of the user’s eyes to remain open while in use. The sight is completely enclosed in tough aluminum material like a tactical scope

One neat aspect of this sight is its battery life, able to support close to 50,000 hours of use (on the lowest setting besides “off”) before the CR2 battery is drained. Turning the dial to zero will shut off the sight completely.

The sight is constructed to eliminate parallax, meaning that whichever way your eyes move, the red dot will remain in the center.

Compared to other Sights

The RD-50 is definitely on the cheaper side of the red dot sights. There are sights by Vortex and Aimpoint that can range in the hundreds of dollars while the high mount version of the RD-50 still sits below a hundred dollars.

This sight’s dot is overall larger than ones we’ve seen. While most sights give the handler the ability to adjust the brightness, the size of the dot is also imperative. A dot that is too big or too small basically eliminates the effectiveness of the sight.

The lens cap is also detachable, which seems minuscule in importance, but some sight’s lens covers flap around when you’re moving around or have the gun in a different position other than straight ahead.

Overall

Don’t let the cheapness of the product distort the RD-50’s usefulness as a sight. We like that the RD-50’s stacks up nicely against the most expensive of red dot sights and has no visible or clear drawbacks.

The one thing to keep note of is the brightness levels. This is the sight’s on and off switch, as there is no automatic shutoff as with more top of the line products. However, even on the lowest setting, you’re able to get thousands of hours worth of life before even changing the battery.

Click here to shop the RD-50 Red Dot Sight.