I've got a few gift cards, and am thinking about possibly upgrading my binos. I don't have money to make a big jump to the glass I would really like to have. Gonna have to keep slumming it.

I've been running Vortex Diamondback 10x42's for 7-8 years now. No real complaints.

I'm seeing some good sales on the Diamondback HD's, and was considering either just upgrading my 10x42's - or adding a 12x50. Not sure if it's worth it to just get Diamondback HD? And I'm not sure this glass is good enough to make it worth jumping up in power for western glassing?

The other option I saw today are the Viper HD 10x42's for $299- which seems like a great deal. How big of a difference are the Vipers over the Diamondbacks? Worth the glass upgrade? Or should I just keep the DB's and hope someday to afford something in the upper tiers (which isn't likely to happen in the next few years)?

I'm also open to any other brands, but in keeping it on the cheap. I've got $125-175 in gift cards, and could throw in another 2-300 if it was really worth it. But I can also just sit on the gift cards and wait for something else. They aren't burning a hole in my pocket.

What is your advice, all knowing OB?

Someone on the Black Friday thread bought the Vipers and had Diamonbacks since 2012. Said the quality was very notable. I bought some Vipers as well. They are supposed to be here on the 10th. So I cant give you any feedback till then.

Thanks!

Bought the 10x42 diamondbacks at cabelas in 2012 for an elk hunt in CO. I loved the feel and view at the time. But over the years the hunting opportunities became more frequent in south Texas and I started noticing it harder to clearly view animals at 200+ in early morning or later evening down the sendero. So while reading the Black Friday thread here I decided to upgrade to the vipers in the same power. And this evening is the first real time use. I was amazed by how everything POPPED! The images stood out so much more clearly. This was 20-30 minutes before dark. Yes spending 1k on glass helps, but hunting the I-45 corridor I'm not glassing far. If I was in the western states I'd go with the 12x50's
Since owning the original version I thought that I too would need a 12x50 to reach the clarity I wanted. And was really hesitant about ordering the 10x42 again. But against my better judgment it paid off.
Would recommend for anyone shooting out of a blind.

Also, for us cheaper folks $300 for binos is a huge commitment. But worth it.

Thanks, I really appreciate this review. It really helps to hear your real world review.

I'm a bit of an odd duck- as I live in CO and do a lot of glassing up in the mountains. But we also have a family ranch, and I do hunt typical TX hill country and south TX as well.

I know that what I really need is a couple sets of glass. But, reality is I can't afford to drop that much $. I have hunted the west for a while now, just using my regular Diamondback 10x42's, and I do just fine. I'm not trying to pick apart tines and count inches, though.

So, I'm debating an upgrade to the Viper, but staying in the 10x42- or a Diamondback HD in 12x50. Whatever I get will probably be a do-it-all, from bow hunting, box blinds, spot and stalk, to western glassing. That seems to be pushing me towards the better glass in 10x42, I would think???

Justified said:

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Also, for us cheaper folks $300 for binos is a huge commitment. But worth it.

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This is me 100% - which is why I'm leaning the way you did. Getting $600 binos for $300 is a great chance for guys in our budget range

The 12x50 in any flavor might be better for glassing across any ridge. And while in Texas they won't be really heavy sitting on a shelf while hunting out of a blind.

cupofjoe04 said:

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I'm also open to any other brands, but in keeping it on the cheap. I've got $125-175 in gift cards, and could throw in another 2-300 if it was really worth it.

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If I were to only spend $299, then I would go with the 10x42 Viper instead of a 12x50 Diamondback. For me, increased resolution and FOV trumps the small increase in magnification. The Viper was over-priced when first introduced so I was never a fan, but for $299 I can certainly get on board. You will see a substantial increase in the quality of the view over your DB's. A $299 Viper is the best buy in binos right now.

However, if you really are willing to go up to the $475 range, then you could consider a 12x worth buying. The 12x50 Sig Zulu 7 is on sale at MidwayUSA for $499. I would not purchase a low-end 12x as none of them perform to their price level, but they become viable when you get around the $499 range, especially a $499 Z7.

C

FWIW I jumped on the vipers for the $299 deal and they are lighter and sharper than my vanguard endeavors ! I haven't used them in a hunting situation but my neighbors house down the street looks pretty damn good through the vipers

C knows Nocs

Caladan said:

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cupofjoe04 said:

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I'm also open to any other brands, but in keeping it on the cheap. I've got $125-175 in gift cards, and could throw in another 2-300 if it was really worth it.

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If I were to only spend $299, then I would go with the 10x42 Viper instead of a 12x50 Diamondback. For me, increased resolution and FOV trumps the small increase in magnification. The Viper was over-priced when first introduced so I was never a fan, but for $299 I can certainly get on board. You will see a substantial increase in the quality of the view over your DB's. A $299 Viper is the best buy in binos right now.

However, if you really are willing to go up to the $475 range, then you could consider a 12x worth buying. The 12x50 Sig Zulu 7 is on sale at MidwayUSA for $499. I would not purchase a low-end 12x as none of them perform to their price level, but they become viable when you get around the $499 range, especially a $499 Z7.

C

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Question for you as I'm in a very similar spot to OP (bought Diamondback 10x50 in 2013 and have been itching for an upgrade). The Viper sale at Bass Pro is only for the 10x42 model, and it seems like the biggest constraint on seeing with my binos is at dawn and dusk (Diamondbacks wprk fine when its bright out).

I've always been pro the 50mm objective to help with bringing in light. I'm sure the 10x42 will be better at these times since its overall better glass, but is there another ~$300 set you'd recommend for a little extra low light improvement? There may not be much difference in a 10x42 and 10x50 Viper (just using example as all else equal except objective size), but I'd rather trust your opinion.

Caladan said:

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cupofjoe04 said:

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I'm also open to any other brands, but in keeping it on the cheap. I've got $125-175 in gift cards, and could throw in another 2-300 if it was really worth it.

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If I were to only spend $299, then I would go with the 10x42 Viper instead of a 12x50 Diamondback. For me, increased resolution and FOV trumps the small increase in magnification. The Viper was over-priced when first introduced so I was never a fan, but for $299 I can certainly get on board. You will see a substantial increase in the quality of the view over your DB's. A $299 Viper is the best buy in binos right now.

However, if you really are willing to go up to the $475 range, then you could consider a 12x worth buying. The 12x50 Sig Zulu 7 is on sale at MidwayUSA for $499. I would not purchase a low-end 12x as none of them perform to their price level, but they become viable when you get around the $499 range, especially a $499 Z7.

C

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What do you think about the " Zeiss Terra ED 10x42"?

I was disappointed with $299 Vipers. I already sent them back. They are a slightly better build than Maven Cs at the $300 price point. But the Mavens are better glass to my eyes. I couldn't get the IPD narrow enough on the vipers. Couple this with poor edge quality and they didn't work well for me.

I'd try to save a little more for the Zulu 7s C mentioned or some Leupy Pro Guides. I think they would be a better upgrade from the Diamondbacks.

Thank you Cal- I really appreciate it!

I'm going to try to catch the Vipers if then get back in stock.

Those Sigs look like a great deal! I've spent time behind the Sig KILO 3000's, as was really impressed with their glass.

arrow said:

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I was disappointed with $299 Vipers. I already sent them back. They are a slightly better build than Maven Cs at the $300 price point. But the Mavens are better glass to my eyes. I couldn't get the IPD narrow enough on the vipers. Couple this with poor edge quality and they didn't work well for me.

I'd try to save a little more for the Zulu 7s C mentioned or some Leupy Pro Guides. I think they would be a better upgrade from the Diamondbacks.

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Thanks for the feedback!

I've got a BNIB pair of the most current Diamondback 10x42. Warranty replaced my old ones and my plan is to sell them and probably go ranging binos closer to season. Haven't looked at what they're going for but will make you a deal, could probably deliver also on my way to Texas for Christmas.

Alternately I hear a lot of good things about the maven options. Kinda hard to find so may not work with your gift cards but they get a lot of love on Rokslide.

tlh3842 said:

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I've always been pro the 50mm objective to help with bringing in light. I'm sure the 10x42 will be better at these times since its overall better glass, but is there another ~$300 set you'd recommend for a little extra low light improvement?

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I haven't used a 10x50 in the $300 range. However, if I were to be in the market, I would most likely go with a Kowa SV II (the new green version, not the older black version), but would also consider the Carson 3D too once I find out about their customer service.

C

DV04 said:

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What do you think about the " Zeiss Terra ED 10x42"?

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I have only used the 8x42 and 8x32 Terras, so I can't say anything about the 10x42. The 8x42mm was when the line first came out. Optically it was decent, but it had an overwhelming odor from the rubber armor. I read that the odor would off-gas after a week or two, but I didn't keep it long enough to see this happen. The other reason I didn't keep it was because the focus wheel had some backlash, and also the fact that they did not come with a case. I believe that these issues are now corrected, but I haven't seen or tried a 42mm since the first one.

The 32mm was ok, but was not as good as the Nikon Monarch 7 that cost less. I guess because of these issues, the Terra line has more or less fallen off my radar. I would like to try a 10x42, but no one I know owns one.

C

Caladan said:

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DV04 said:

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What do you think about the " Zeiss Terra ED 10x42"?

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I have only used the 8x42 and 8x32 Terras, so I can't say anything about the 10x42. The 8x42mm was when the line first came out. Optically it was decent, but it had an overwhelming odor from the rubber armor. I read that the odor would off-gas after a week or two, but I didn't keep it long enough to see this happen. The other reason I didn't keep it was because the focus wheel had some backlash, and also the fact that they did not come with a case. I believe that these issues are now corrected, but I haven't seen or tried a 42mm since the first one.

The 32mm was ok, but was not as good as the Nikon Monarch 7 that cost less. I guess because of these issues, the Terra line has more or less fallen off my radar. I would like to try a 10x42, but no one I know owns one.

C

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Thank you!

Thoughts on the new sig stabilized binos, zulu6?

Proc92 said:

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Thoughts on the new sig stabilized binos, zulu6?

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Lower price and a longer warranty vs. the equivalent Canons makes the Sigs look like a good buy for those looking for that sort of thing. They appear to be re-badged Kenkos, so check out the prices of the Kenko versions before you buy. Just keep in mind that they have a pretty small exit pupil, so they will not be a good choice for low light levels.

These are new to the market, so I cannot tell you anything about their optical or stabilization performance.

C

cupofjoe04 said:

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Thanks, I really appreciate this review. It really helps to hear your real world review.

I'm a bit of an odd duck- as I live in CO and do a lot of glassing up in the mountains. But we also have a family ranch, and I do hunt typical TX hill country and south TX as well.

I know that what I really need is a couple sets of glass. But, reality is I can't afford to drop that much $. I have hunted the west for a while now, just using my regular Diamondback 10x42's, and I do just fine. I'm not trying to pick apart tines and count inches, though.

So, I'm debating an upgrade to the Viper, but staying in the 10x42- or a Diamondback HD in 12x50. Whatever I get will probably be a do-it-all, from bow hunting, box blinds, spot and stalk, to western glassing. That seems to be pushing me towards the better glass in 10x42, I would think???

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I hate you!

coastalaggie said:

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cupofjoe04 said:

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Thanks, I really appreciate this review. It really helps to hear your real world review.

I'm a bit of an odd duck- as I live in CO and do a lot of glassing up in the mountains. But we also have a family ranch, and I do hunt typical TX hill country and south TX as well.

I know that what I really need is a couple sets of glass. But, reality is I can't afford to drop that much $. I have hunted the west for a while now, just using my regular Diamondback 10x42's, and I do just fine. I'm not trying to pick apart tines and count inches, though.

So, I'm debating an upgrade to the Viper, but staying in the 10x42- or a Diamondback HD in 12x50. Whatever I get will probably be a do-it-all, from bow hunting, box blinds, spot and stalk, to western glassing. That seems to be pushing me towards the better glass in 10x42, I would think???

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I hate you!

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I'd hate him too if he wasn't such a damn nice guy lol

We are living in a truly blessed place, and I try my best not to take that for granted. I get to wake up to fresh air, have 4 real seasons, 300+ days of sun per year, a "commute" dodging mule deer for about 5 minutes to the office, a panoramic view of peaks from sitting at my desk, and all the mountains I could ever want to play in.

But to be perfectly honest: I would trade it all in a heartbeat to live back in TX near family, watch my nieces and nephew grow up, be able to eat around a table with them, take care of aging parents, and be able to spend weekends on the ranch with my kids and Dad. I can always come visit the mountains. The time will never come back.

lazuras_dc said:

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I'd hate him too if he wasn't such a damn nice guy lol

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I guess I'm buying dinner next time now.. ha ha!

Right back at ya brother! One of these days we are gonna enjoy a campfire together.

What are y'all thoughts on the " Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide HD Binoculars - 10X - 42mm"? Sorry I have a few Bass Pro Gift Cards burning a hole in my pocket. Thanks in advance!

Meopta Optima 10x42 run about $349 and I got some last year at $300. I used them in WY this year and liked them. They seem pretty hearty.

DV04 said:

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What are y'all thoughts on the " Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide HD Binoculars - 10X - 42mm"?

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Very good binocular in the ~$450 price range. Actually, there aren't any bad performers when you get to this price range. They all do things a bit differently, but none are really better than the other. The only thing I don't like about them is the somewhat short ER and flimsy objective lens covers.

Also check out the Nikon M7 if BP has them. They are in the same price class, and are very good as well.

Get the Vortex Fury and you will have the range finder as well. i like mine.

yes it's more than your limit but buy once cry once...

Thank you!

chocolatelabs said:

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Get the Vortex Fury and you will have the range finder as well. i like mine.

yes it's more than your limit but buy once cry once...

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I use the Sig BDX on my primary hunting rifle, so I'm locked into the Sig range finder (which vastly outperforms my Leupold).

My Old Man got a pair of the Sig Kilo 3000's (bino w/ built in range), and I've used them a couple times. I really like them. I'm sure there is better glass, but they take a step out of my hunting rig, and performed really well on the hunts we have put them through. Just a bit out of my price range right now...

But I can say, I really like the bino/range finder combo. I killed a pronghorn last year that wouldn't have taken a shot at without them.

I've had the BX-4's for 3 years and really like them, they are outstanding for the a sub $500 Bino

SIG BINO AND RANGE FINDER

[url=https://www.sigsauer.com/kilo3000bdx-10x42-mm.html][/url]SIG has a nice pair of bino with range finders that cost about $1200 if I remember correctly.