Let’s talk hunting optics-binoculars and scopes

[Saltwater60]

After hunting with some stocking stuffer binoculars I realized pretty fast they were inadequate beyond belief. With that said I realized they are probably $30 pair.

Looking around it seem the Nikon monarch 5 either 8x42 or 10x42 seems like the best option around the $250 mark. I hunt mainly wooded areas with a few small fields. I like to walk around while hunting and realized the deer saw me at the same time I saw them. I need an edge and binoculars are probably that edge.

I also just built out a 6.8spc and would like a scope for that. I’m thinking the $300-$400 range for the scope. For this I haven’t really looked yet. I’d say 100 yard scope would be good and plenty.
Nikon MONARCH 3 Riflescope : Cabela's

 

[fnfalguy]

I haven’t gone too deeply into their line, but I have been really impressed by the stuff from Vortex. I have a monocular of theirs along with a few of their scopes and for the $ spent, its a good deal. My regular binoculars are a pair of suplus Steiners, used by the Izzys. If you can find one of those at a decent price I would grab them in a heart beat. Rubberized armor, but has some funky reticule which I’m sure makes sense to a field general.

Steiner 8x30 Binoculars Used

Didn’t buy them from here, but these are what they look like.

 

[Robin]

All my scopes and binoculars are Nikon. I bought one of their scopes years ago and figured I would stay with them till I get a bad one. Four scopes and three binoculars (one I hunt with, one for my wife, and one for the truck) later and that has not happened. Never had a problem and if I did, they cover it.
Robin

 

[Saltwater60]

All my scopes and binoculars are Nikon. I bought one of their scopes years ago and figured I would stay with them till I get a bad one. Four scopes and three binoculars (one I hunt with, one for my wife, and one for the truck) later and that has not happened. Never had a problem and if I did, they cover it.
Robin

I have one Nikon scope and I’m happy with it. Also seems like the Nikon binoculars get rave reviews from hunters and bird watchers. Seems they say you want better ones than these $275 your looking at spending $1000. I’ll probably move on the binoculars faster than the scope anyway.

 

[STS556]

I only use Nikon rifle scopes. Never used their binoculars. I have a few Prostaff 5, a couple of Monarch 3 and one Prostaff. All are 50mm objective lens except for the Prostaff which is a 40mm lens. My current oldest scope is about 10 to 12 years old and still performs flawlessly as do all of my scopes. They are all clear and bright, even on higher magnification and in lower light.

 

[oc shooter]

I'm a leoupold person scopes and bino's but i picked up a bino from stiener really good stuff. little pricey but you get what u pay for. had a few nikons to they where pretty good then they moved there production from japan to the Philippines and the quality didn't seem the same to there credit they always fixed everything i sent back at no charge just got tired of sending stuff back. that was a while ago so maybe they've gotten better

 

[masterswimmer]

Bought my daughter a Leupold Cascade bino about eight yrs ago. Been rock solid. Discontinued at this time but i wouldn't hesitate to buy another Leopold.
I've got one scope, Nikon. Sits on my 10/22. Been great so far.

 

[Podmonkey]

Nikon always seems to give great bang for the buck. I'm not sure what qualifies a scope to be hunting specific but it all depends on your budget I guess. Primary Arms are good for budget stuff as is Nikon, Burris offers good scopes in the lower midrange, Trijicon has good scopes in the upper midrange and the Razor HD line reigns king in the <$1500 realm.

 

[meketrefe]

After hunting with some stocking stuffer binoculars I realized pretty fast they were inadequate beyond belief. With that said I realized they are probably $30 pair.

Looking around it seem the Nikon monarch 5 either 8x42 or 10x42 seems like the best option around the $250 mark. I hunt mainly wooded areas with a few small fields. I like to walk around while hunting and realized the deer saw me at the same time I saw them. I need an edge and binoculars are probably that edge.

I also just built out a 6.8spc and would like a scope for that. I’m thinking the $300-$400 range for the scope. For this I haven’t really looked yet. I’d say 100 yard scope would be good and plenty.
Nikon MONARCH 3 Riflescope : Cabela's

The nikon monarch has good japanese camera grade glass but the problem is the BDC that is rather coarse and like
most BDC in 2nd focal plane it doesn't really work although it is not a huge problem for 200 yards and closer.
But you didn't tell us if 100 yards is for large targerts, medium/average or small targets because a high magnification at least 10 makes a difference
when target gets really small. (I would say quarter size)

The weaver tactical here is probably the best value going around with 3-15 and front focal plane and parallax adjustment.
Also all japanese glass and tube made in japan.

Weaver Tactical Rifle Scope - 3-15x50mm SF Mil Dot Reticle Matte Black | Natchez

These are heavier scopes due to the beefed up components. it also makes an ideal scope for a patrol rilfe on a budget yet
it gives the precision of scopes above 1-1.5K dollars.


Otherwise if you are going to grab a budget one get this one that is also a japanese glass and tube and will do the same
role as the old x10 supersniper from SWFA yet it has 3-10 magnification, tactical turrets and it is pretty accurate at raging (army mil dot)
at high magnifcation as it is a 2nd focal plane (obviously) but a lot better than most scopes on that price range just because
of the glass and construction.

Weaver Grand Slam Tactical Rifle Scope - 3-10x40mm Mil Dot Reticle Matte Black | Natchez

If you want something smaller footprint and lighter then the Burris Fulfield E1 2-7 is ideal for a woods/hunting bolt action or an AR
when in a budget. Again 2fp but with pretty decent glass.

The best thing is to go to stores and look through them because the most important part of the optical system is one's eyes
and we all have different eyes. So it is a great time to look at the glass and features.


I hope this helps.

 

[meketrefe]

Of the chinese 'budget' scopes (including primary brands) these seem to give more for the same price.
And folks are using them for budget builds and rifles and still have some uniform way to do corrections unlike BDC and
many other tacticool scopes that do not really work in 2nd focal plane.

Falcon 1-8x24 S8i 30mm Riflescope

 

[JamieZ]

I have a 6.8 that I use for deer hunting. All my scopes are Nikon but the one that is on the 6.8,, Its a Redfield Revolution 2x7. Its a cheap in price scope that is high quality. Its an excellent scope and many other people feel the same.

Redfield Revolution 2-7x33mm Riflescope Matte Finish 4-Plex, Color: Black, Tube Diameter: 1 in, Up to 31% Off w/ Free S&H — 3 models

As far as Binos,,,,Ive got a cheap ass pair of Bushnells that I have been wanting to replace for years but never do. Just figured good binos would be beneficial for Chuck hunting being that they are such a small animal. Ive been looking at these for sometime. Not sure digital would be the best option but I do like the fact that they have night vision for coyote hunting.

ATN BinoX 4-16x Smart Day/Night Digital Binoculars with 1080p Full HD Video, WiFi, GPS, and more. w/ Free S&H — 2 models

 

[Saltwater60]

The nikon monarch has good japanese camera grade glass but the problem is the BDC that is rather coarse and like
most BDC in 2nd focal plane it doesn't really work although it is not a huge problem for 200 yards and closer.
But you didn't tell us if 100 yards is for large targerts, medium/average or small targets because a high magnification at least 10 makes a difference
when target gets really small. (I would say quarter size)

The weaver tactical here is probably the best value going around with 3-15 and front focal plane and parallax adjustment.
Also all japanese glass and tube made in japan.

Weaver Tactical Rifle Scope - 3-15x50mm SF Mil Dot Reticle Matte Black | Natchez

These are heavier scopes due to the beefed up components. it also makes an ideal scope for a patrol rilfe on a budget yet
it gives the precision of scopes above 1-1.5K dollars.


Otherwise if you are going to grab a budget one get this one that is also a japanese glass and tube and will do the same
role as the old x10 supersniper from SWFA yet it has 3-10 magnification, tactical turrets and it is pretty accurate at raging (army mil dot)
at high magnifcation as it is a 2nd focal plane (obviously) but a lot better than most scopes on that price range just because
of the glass and construction.

Weaver Grand Slam Tactical Rifle Scope - 3-10x40mm Mil Dot Reticle Matte Black | Natchez

If you want something smaller footprint and lighter then the Burris Fulfield E1 2-7 is ideal for a woods/hunting bolt action or an AR
when in a budget. Again 2fp but with pretty decent glass.

The best thing is to go to stores and look through them because the most important part of the optical system is one's eyes
and we all have different eyes. So it is a great time to look at the glass and features.


I hope this helps.

The 100 yard range would be for deer mainly so larger animals. I may hunt coyotes, but they are rather large as well. That would be what this riffle would be used for.

It did help because I’ll be honest I don’t know much about scopes or the terminology.

 

[meketrefe]

again the main thing is that you go and look through them and try for features.
One has to start with a somewhat decent glass. If you like the nikon maybe the nikon with the mildot.
they are decent scopes but again quite coarse in nature.
For those disturbances you could even go with a simple crosshair or duplex and just hold on the target.

If you are not familiar with scopes do some research first and go try them out at the store.
Like I said we all have different set of eyes an from that basis what works for me might not be good for you.

I would prioritize as follows:

Lenses (high quality camera grade lenses)
Construction (I prefer all japanese or then US made leupold or a german or swiss scope)
Adjustment type and range
Parallax adjustment
decent magnification range for the job. Magnification is relative because a good glass with lets say
a 2-7 might give a picture as good as a not so good 3-9.
First Focal plane preferred or Second is fine for what is needed.
I like a simple and fine stadia design (reticle and measures) that are consistent with the units of measure
in the adjustment it has that way I don't have to convert should I need to use it.
A simple Christmas tree is ok.
Simple to do raging if needed.
30mm tube preferred.
life time warranty from a company that makes optics not a retailer that buys OEM scopes (many
of them). Even if they do not make them they are involved int he design and assembly and QA like
vortex or burris.
Needless to say if the scope is to do corrections it needs to track and stayed zeroed no matter what.
If there is an error in the tracking but it is known and repeatable is ok as soon as it is not huge. Many
scopes have this unless you go into high end quality scopes.

 

[Saltwater60]

Anyone order from optics planet. They have the Nikon monarch 5 binoculars for $210.00. They are a demo model. Do you guys think the demo model matters. It’s about a $70.00 savings.

 

[Saltwater60]

again the main thing is that you go and look through them and try for features.
One has to start with a somewhat decent glass. If you like the nikon maybe the nikon with the mildot.
they are decent scopes but again quite coarse in nature.
For those disturbances you could even go with a simple crosshair or duplex and just hold on the target.

If you are not familiar with scopes do some research first and go try them out at the store.
Like I said we all have different set of eyes an from that basis what works for me might not be good for you.

I would prioritize as follows:

Lenses (high quality camera grade lenses)
Construction (I prefer all japanese or then US made leupold or a german or swiss scope)
Adjustment type and range
Parallax adjustment
decent magnification range for the job. Magnification is relative because a good glass with lets say
a 2-7 might give a picture as good as a not so good 3-9.
First Focal plane preferred or Second is fine for what is needed.
I like a simple and fine stadia design (reticle and measures) that are consistent with the units of measure
in the adjustment it has that way I don't have to convert should I need to use it.
A simple Christmas tree is ok.
Simple to do raging if needed.
30mm tube preferred.
life time warranty from a company that makes optics not a retailer that buys OEM scopes (many
of them). Even if they do not make them they are involved int he design and assembly and QA like
vortex or burris.
Needless to say if the scope is to do corrections it needs to track and stayed zeroed no matter what.
If there is an error in the tracking but it is known and repeatable is ok as soon as it is not huge. Many
scopes have this unless you go into high end quality scopes.

Thanks. That helps a lot. I bought two s ones recently and was not happy with them. I returned them. They were extremely heavy and for .22 for my kids. I’m not particular to any brand it was just the Nikon fit the bill. I have heard good things about vortex.

 

[JamieZ]

Anyone order from optics planet. They have the Nikon monarch 5 binoculars for $210.00. They are a demo model. Do you guys think the demo model matters. It’s about a $70.00 savings.

Have ordered from them quite a few times. Quick shipping and never a problem with anything.

 

[JamieZ]

I would buy the demo model for less money

 

[FLA45fan]

Binocs - trying to walk the line between affordable vs, rugged and low light vs compact. I have a pair of small Leopold Wind River 10x23(?) That are super clear but for low light my go to pair are Steiner 8x30 that I bought at West Marine for a $200 price match. Waterproof, armored, small enough.
Scopes - Nikon on 3, Burris on two others. Affordable and good luck with all.

 

[Retired MSG]

I have 2 Nikon scopes and 1 pair binoculars, and 1 Vortex scope. The Nikon's are good solid stuff and I'm happy with them, but I feel the Vortex is a step up in quality.

 

[Jaywmustang]

I have ordered from optic planet, got my stuff in a timely manner. U can also check out dvor.com. It’s optic planets discount site, idk why they just don’t do it on their main site.

 

[Jaywmustang]

https://www.amazon.com/Nikon-black-FX1000/dp/B07DBZBVCX?th=1&psc=1

I know it’s above your price range, that scope gets great reviews. I almost bought one. Vortex diamondback tactical is another scope that is worth looking at from the reviews I read. I do not own either of these scopes.

Vortex 4-16x44 Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescope, Color: Black, Tube Diameter: 30 mm, Up to 22% Off and Free Gift w/ Free S&H — 2 models

 

[Saltwater60]

I checked out the Nikon monarch 5 binoculars and loved them. They are bright, bery bright and clear. They are small enough and light enough. I really like them.

I also looked at the vortex strike eagle scope and really liked that. I’m going to look at some more scope since I only looked at gander and they didn’t have a great selection.

https://www.amazon.com/Vortex-Optics-Strike-Second-Riflescopes/dp/B07HFJ4RDM

 

[1075tech]

I personally like the Vortex stuff. Their warranty is awesome. Like the OP, I always had a cheap pair binoculars. This year though, I went with the Vortex Diamondback 10x42. I'm really happy with them. Picked them up for $160.

For scopes, I have 2 Vortex Diamondback HP 3-12x42's on my Grendels , a Diamondback HP 2-7 on my muzzleloader, and an unassigned 1-6 Strike Eagle. When I complete my 18" Grendel, I'm probably going with a Viper HS 4-16.

I keep an eye on AAOptics.com for their refurb specials.

 

[dsdmmat]

Anyone order from optics planet. They have the Nikon monarch 5 binoculars for $210.00. They are a demo model. Do you guys think the demo model matters. It’s about a $70.00 savings.

Nikons no bs warranty makes this a good buy. If there is anything wrong with them send them in and they will fix or replace for free.

 

[Blimey]

All my scopes and binoculars are Nikon. I bought one of their scopes years ago and figured I would stay with them till I get a bad one. Four scopes and three binoculars (one I hunt with, one for my wife, and one for the truck) later and that has not happened. Never had a problem and if I did, they cover it.
Robin

I feel the same way. Have three of their scopes. It seems to me they are just where scopes start being worth the effort of mounting. Learned my lesson on a $50 simmons and won't need it repeated.

 

[meketrefe]

The 100 yard range would be for deer mainly so larger animals. I may hunt coyotes, but they are rather large as well. That would be what this riffle would be used for.

It did help because I’ll be honest I don’t know much about scopes or the terminology.

Some people like a scope they can identify the impacts at 100 yards to zero their guns or fine target w/o the need for a secondary scope.
Then when hunting you zoom out but beware of 2nd focal plane because then the scale in any BDC changes w the magnification setting.
Not a huge problem in the 150 to 250 yards range that is more than double the average shot and in many cases one can fairly accurate hold
over the target. But if you have it you can use it, you have options. if you don't have it then you cant.

Go check the scopes. Like others pointed out Redfield is also a decent buy due to the glass that is not going to be their best glass but it
is in line with others discussed here and backed by Leupold. Not all models are US made like some people think, only the originals.
They also made a reissue of the Marines M40 (Vietnam era) 3-9 that is very good and well priced but only made 1000 of them.

 

[STS556]

This thread just made me spend almost $500. I just bought a Nikon Prostaff 5 3.5-14x50 scope and the Nikon P-Series mount. I have a Prostaff 5 2.5-10x50 on my Remington 700 .243. The 700 being able to shoot longer distances needs a little higher magnification so I am putting the 14x scope on that and moving the 10x scope to an AR I am building.

 

[meketrefe]

They are Nikon but Prostaff have so so optics and mechanical components. Spherical aberration is pretty substantial. Stadia design is pretty is coarse at least for the BDC models that like any BDC and on top 2nd focal plane is does not work in practical terms.
It doesn't mean one cannot make them work, but it is quite a project to come up with translation tables for changing conditions and different
magnification settings.