TOP 10 LIST: Best Binoculars For Elk Hunting in 2022
A good hunter would agree that a pair of hunting binoculars would be of a great aid. A good pair of hunting binoculars can provide a crisp image of your target even when far away. We also understand other qualities you may be looking for like comfort. In this article, we outline several of the best binoculars you can consider to in your elk hunting endeavours.
What are the Best Binoculars For Elk Hunting?
We could say that we traveled the world to find for you the Best Binoculars For Elk Hunting and it’s partially true – we’ve been on the road since 2011 after all.
More importantly, we have done a very thorough research online and have gone through most of the available elk hunting binoculars that you can buy today. We read the comments left by people who bought and used these best binoculars for elk hunting.
We also wrote a brief best binoculars for elk hunting Buying Guide and FAQ sections to address most questions you may have.
Without further ado, here’s the list of top 10 elk hunting binoculars based on their pricing, specs and ratings by real users.
1. Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.7 Pounds (0.3 kg) Size: 4.3 x 3.9 x 1 Inches (10.9 x 10 x 2.5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 12x Eye Relief: 20mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision are great for seeing far distances while still promising clarity. What we like about the binocular is how it is lightweight and portable, making it good for travel use. The binocular also does not fog up easily, so you do not have to clean the lenses that often. We also appreciate the good customer service they provide. If you are using the binocular for extended periods, take note that there may be a slight plastic odor. You also need to be careful to not hit against the focus knob accidentally to avoid changing the focus.
Pros
- Customer service is good for customers’ queries,
- Binocular is lightweight,
- Binocular does not fog up easily,
- Binocular is great for looking at far distance
Cons
- There is a slight plastic odor from the binocular,
- Focus knob can be tighter
2. Steiner Predator Series 8×30 Auto Focus Hunting Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.2 Pounds (0.5 kg) Size: 4.7 x 6.5 x 2.1 Inches (11.9 x 16.5 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm Magnification: 8x Waterproof: Yes Video: Yes |
These Steiner Predator Series 8×30 Auto Focus Hunting Binoculars feature a 30 mm objective lens diameter and a 8x magnification ability. The floating porro prisms are tricky to adjust but provide very sharp and clear images. The auto focus allows for quick adjustments and while they can be difficult to adjust if you are not used to these types of lenses, they are very clear once focused. The fog proof and waterproof designed lenses allow for use outdoors in a variety of climates. They are backed by a manufacturer’s warranty and have a field of view of 304 feet. The neck strap is cheap quality and uncomfortable.
Pros
- Military grade porro prisms,
- Waterproof,
- Good in low light settings,
- Comfortable to hold
Cons
- Difficult to focus,
- Cheap and uncomfortable neck strap
3. 10×50 Powerfull Binoculars for Adults
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.5 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 8.9 x 8.7 x 4 Inches (22.6 x 22.1 x 10.2 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 13mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
This 10×50 Powerfull Binocular is suitable for those who want to track rapid movement in sporting events or the wild. The wide field of view will help to ensure the moving object stays in your field of vision. This binocular is also suitable for outdoor activities because it is waterproof. Thus, it can withstand slight rain or water splashes. Also, the lenses are multi-coated to provide you with brighter images. Those with glasses, however, might not find this binocular to be suitable because it has short eye relief. The focus of the lenses may also require frequent readjustment, even for the same distance.
Pros
- Wide field of view,
- Waterproof,
- Lenses are multi-coated,
- Strong rubber exterior
Cons
- Short eye relief,
- Might need to constantly focus the lenses
4. 10 x 50 Professional High Definition Large Field of View Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.7 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 7.6 x 7 x 2.5 Inches (19.3 x 17.8 x 6.4 cm) Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 10mm Waterproof: Water-resistant |
This 10×50 binocular is suitable for those who like observing rapid movement for the purpose of birding, sporting events, and more. The binocular also has a comfortable rubber coating so you will be able to hold it for long periods. When you are done using the binocular, you can also keep it in a robust binocular casing that will protect it well. Other than the product details, we also appreciate the responsive customer service in providing the appropriate replies or refunds to customers. Do note that the binocular is slightly heavy. Also, it may not be very easy to adjust the focus knob.
Pros
- Customer service is fairly responsive,
- There is a comfortable exterior rubber coating,
- The binocular casing protects the binocular well,
- Wide field of view
Cons
- Not easy to adjust the focus,
- Binocular is on the heavier side
5. SkyGenius 10 x 50 Binoculars for Wildlife Watching with Low Light Night Vision
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 7.1 x 5.1 x 2 Inches (18 x 13 x 5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x |
The SkyGenius 10×50 Binoculars for Wildlife Watching is a good option for those who want a wide field of view for birding or for observing rapid movements like sports events. The grip on the binocular is good and comfortable due to the rubber coating. You can also expect a smooth process when you are adjusting the diopter. What we like about SkyGenius is also the positive customer service rating. Take note that the binocular bag strap may not be long enough for you and may even be uncomfortable for some. The binocular is also slightly on the bulkier side, so it may not be too suitable for some.
Pros
- There is a comfortable grip on binocular,
- Good customer service,
- Binocular is well protected with a rubber coating,
- Easy to adjust diopter
Cons
- The binocular bag strap is not long enough,
- Binocular is not compact
6. 20×50 Military Binoculars for Adults with Smartphone Adapter
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.6 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 7.9 x 7.9 x 3.1 Inches (20 x 20 x 8 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 20x Waterproof: Waterproof |
The 20×50 Military Binoculars for Adults are a good choice for those who want a durable and robust binocular. This binocular will be able to go with you on hunting and hiking trips. The neck strap on the binocular is not too tight, so you will feel comfortable using it. The lens caps are also attached to the binocular, so you do not need to be scared of losing them. Furthermore, there is a tripod attachment if you want to obtain a stabilized image. Do take note, however, that the binocular is not fog proof. Another point is that the smartphone adapter is not easy to use, and you may need to use it multiple times to be comfortable with it.
Pros
- Neck strap is not too tight,
- Lens caps are connected to binocular,
- Binocular has a robust exterior,
- There is a tripod attachment
Cons
- Binocular is not fog proof,
- Smartphone adapter is not user-friendly
7. 10 x 50 Powerful Binoculars for Bird Watching
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Water-resistant |
The 10×50 Powerful Binoculars for Bird Watching is a good option for those who want to have decent functions of a binocular without having to spend a bomb on it. The tough rubber exterior will protect the binocular and make it longer-lasting. With the wide field of view, the binocular is suitable to track rapid movement in birding or sporting events. It is also not hard to use the focus knob, so you will have fewer issues focusing on the image at different distances. Note that the binocular is on the heavier side, and might not be suitable for activities that require a lot of traveling. Also, the case and strap provided are not of the highest quality.
Pros
- Tough rubber exterior increases durability,
- Wide field of view,
- Provides clear images for its price,
- Not hard to adjust focus knob
Cons
- Binocular is heavy,
- Binocular case and strap are not of good quality
8. 20×50 High Power Military Binoculars
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 20x Eye Relief: 26mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The 20×50 High Power Military Binoculars are a good option for those who want a wide field of view in their binoculars. The binocular has a strong rubber coating that can endure the elements of the weather. This binocular also features easy adjustment of the center-focus knob. A plus point about this binocular is how the lens cap is attached to the binocular itself so you don’t have to worry about losing them. We also like how the binocular is relatively lightweight, so you can carry it around for longer periods of travel. Do take note that if you are buying this binocular, you will not be able to attach it to a tripod because there is no screw-hole.
Pros
- Not difficult to adjust the binocular’s settings,
- Comfortable size to grip,
- Lens cap are attached to binocular to prevent losing them,
- Binocular is lightweight
Cons
- Binocular strap is not too secure,
- No attachment to pair with a tripod
9. TecTecTec BPRO Wild Camo 10×42 Hunting Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.6 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 6.3 x 2.7 x 7.1 Inches (16 x 6.9 x 18 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm Magnification: 10X Waterproof: Yes |
The TecTecTec BPRO 10X42 Camo binoculars are a solid medium-range pair for hunting and sightseeing. The build of the binoculars is durable and comfortable to hold. The binoculars come with a complete accessory kit for your viewing needs. Additionally, if you don’t have matching vision, you can adjust a collet present on the right eye-piece to find the perfect focus for both your eyes. Those with wide-set eyes might find that the binoculars don’t offer an adjustment for the interpupillary distance that suits them. All in all, the product includes a variety of features at a reasonable price.
Pros
- These are not only waterproof but also fogproof,
- You can align it with your smartphone camera to take photos,
- Smooth and easy adjustment,
- Realistic camouflage for stealth hunters
Cons
- Not for people with wide set eyes,
- Adjusting a phone to take a picture can be difficult
10. 10×42 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.5 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 6 x 5.2 x Inches (15.2 x 13.2 x cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 15mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The 10×42 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars are a great option for outdoor activities because this binocular is both waterproof and fog proof. It will be able to withstand the elements of different environments. It also features a wide field of view that can help to catch rapid movements. Having a robust and sturdy exterior, it is also well protected. One thing many like about this product is its ability to provide sufficiently clear images even in low lighting environments. One thing to take note of, however, is the weight of the binocular, together with the acceptable quality of its binocular casing.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog proof,
- Wide field of view,
- Robust and sturdy exterior,
- Provides clear images in low lighting
Cons
- Slightly heavy,
- Binocular case is not of high quality
Verdict
TLDR: Quick summary of our findings as to what can be considered the best binoculars for elk hunting is below:
Overall best best binoculars for elk hunting out there: Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision
Premium Pick if money is not much of an issue: Steiner Predator Series 8×30 Auto Focus Hunting Binoculars
Budget Choice – there’s no shame in spending prudently: 10×50 Powerfull Binoculars for Adults
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying Best Binoculars For Elk Hunting
Binocular Features For Hunting
For hunting, you may want to get a pair of binoculars with night vision and thermal imaging. These features make it easy to spot an animal that may be far away and in the dark. You also want a pair that is lightweight, so that it is easy to transport it from one spot to another. You may also want to get fully coated binoculars because they produce brighter images. The coating also protects against damage from debris and dust and also help reduce chromatic aberration. Also, adjustable eye cups for eye relief and binoculars with a wide field of view may also come in handy when hunting. Lastly, be sure to get binoculars with image stabilization so the images are more steady, thus easier to aim for the target.
Magnification
Binoculars with a high magnification may sometimes not be beneficial. For instance when hunting/fishing, you do not want a binoculars with magnification that is too high because it reduces the quality of the images. The best magnification is between 7X and 8X. High magnification narrows the field of view, but if your aim is to zoom in on far away items, then higher magnification is your best bet.
Weatherproofing
It is useful to get a pair that is weatherproof, especially if you are going to use your binoculars for multiple outdoor expeditions that make have constant change in weather. If a binoculars is described as weatherproof, it is almost certain that it is not fully waterproof, but potentially just water resistent. However, they may have protection against fog, dust damage and other differing weather conditions, such as moist weather condtions, without damaging them. Always store your binoculars well and dry after use and do not expose your binoculars too much to sun or moisture as it will be damaged with time.
Zoom
Zoom binoculars offer a wide variety of magnification and is written as 10-30X60 or 12-35X70. In these examples, 10X and 12X are the lowest magnification and 30X and 35X being the highest magnification. Most models have a lever to adjust the zoom, but for those that don’t, it’s important to know that high magnification may lower the quality of the images. If you are looking to go bird watching, fishing or hunting, then get binoculars with 8X – 10X. This zoom range is best for getting clearer images and a wider field of view. If your goal is to zoom in on far way objects, choose binoculars with a high magnification, even though your field of view narrows. It is best to get zoom binoculars so you can adjust your binos to your liking or to suit your needs.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens’ size determines the amount of light entering the binoculars. Therefore, the larger it is, the better the image in terms of quality, especially in dark places. When buying a pair of binoculars, check for the lens size, which is the numeric figure right after the X on its description. A ratio of 5 to magnification is best, so in a case where you have an 8 X 25 versus a 8 X 40, the 8 X 40 has better images because generally the lens diameter is wider.
Accessories
Depending on the design of your binoculars, it may come with some additional accessories such as neck straps, caps, rain guards, harness, a bag and tripod adapters. Some of these accessories should help to protect your binoculars against damage. For instance, the rain guards are extremely useful in tropical climate where there’s rainfall, that way, the droplets won’t get in your way or damage your binoculars. The neck straps or lanyards make it easier to carry the binoculars around hands free. Lastly, the lens covers help protect the lenses from damage by dust, debris or even water droplets.
Angles Of Vliew
The angle of view is the perspective you can see through your binoculars lens. The larger it is, the larger the field of view is. The angle of view is measured in degrees and is usually a low number such as 6 degrees or 7 degrees. If you need a pair of binoculars with a large field of view, make sure to look for the one with the highest number among those offered. At times the number is higher such, as 45 degrees or 55 degrees, but is still expressed in degrees. It’s known as the apparent angle of view, and the larger it is, the larger the field of view.
Questions and Answers About Best Binoculars For Elk Hunting
Are 10×50 binoculars good for hunting?
Binoculars with a specification of 10x magnification and 50 millimeters of objective lenses are a good choice for most hunting expeditions. The 10×50 binoculars will allow you to view your prey 10x closer from any distance to your position. A 10×50 binoculars is also highly effective for hunting when you consider the average shooting distance of your targets.
What is the best magnification for hunting binoculars?
It’s a fair question to ask what is the best magnification binoculars for hunting, but sadly there is no universally acceptable answer to this. While most hunting binoculars are found anywhere between 6-12x magnification, you may need to consider your hunting location, the type of hunting you do, and your personal preferences in choosing the best magnification binoculars for yourself. Generally, it is advisable to pick a pair of binoculars with a wider magnification range if you do multiple types of hunting.
How far can you see with night vision binoculars?
How far you can see through a pair of night vision binoculars depends on factors like the device’s viewing range – retention and recognition range. With simple night vision binoculars, you can see as far as a distance of 400-800 feet, while higher-quality binoculars may allow you to see over a distance of 1300 feet. However, visibility, weather conditions, and the size of prey can all alter how far you can see with night vision binoculars.
What is a good zoom for binoculars?
A magnification of 6 to 10X is a good enough zoom for your binoculars. This magnification is easier to use, especially when fishing or doing light activities. This pair of binoculars is also more portable. However, for stable images, tracking moving objects, and birdwatching, an 8 to 10X magnification is ideal because the pictures are more precise and have enough brightness. A large magnification may make the images less transparent and shakier.
What is a good field of view for binoculars?
Binoculars with a good field of view (F.O.V) should allow you to see more of the terrain and detect your prey without having to adjust your binoculars. Additionally, when targeting a moving animal, binoculars with a good field of view should also support a long-distance view within the circular frame of lenses without shifting the binoculars. In general for a distance of 1,000 meters, most high-quality binoculars have a field of view of 300 to 375 feet.
