Budget Binoculars

[TM0218]

Looking to buy a set of 10x binoculars for a WY antelope hunt this year. My only constraint is budget, I’d like to keep it at around $200. So far I’ve been looking at Vortex Diamondback HDs, and the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie. Does anyone have experience with these or have any other suggestions? Also willing to look for used optics to get something better for the same price. Thanks!

 

[JohnCushman]

Look at the Theron lines from predator optics. Pat is a member of the forum and his customer service can't be beat.

 

[TN2shot07]

I can’t speak to the Theron optics, but will give a vote for shopping with predator optics! Great service and price

I’m running a set of Mavens that I really like so far, but I think they are in the $300 price range.

 

[Valley1320]

Look into vanguard endeavors. I have a a pair and are happy with them I feel like they are about the same quality as vortex diamondbacks.

 

[whiskeydog]

If you can bump your price to $300 (That's list...might be able to get them for cheaper), take a look at the new Optika line from Meopta. I'd take Meopta over Vortex any day.
I'm pretty sure Schmalts (Predator Optics) carries Meopta.

 

[fishing4sanity]

My son had a pair of the older Diamondbacks and they were pretty good, then he won a pair of the Diamondback HD binos and I thought there was a noticeable improvement. IMO, the new Diamondbacks are nice binos. I think optics have a personal fit as well, try to go somewhere where you can look through a few pairs in your price range.

 

[LousyResident]

I picked up a pair of the Diamondbacks during Bass Pro's black Friday sale for $130. So far I've been really happy with them. And considering that they are my first full size pair of binos and a significant step up from prior pairs, I think they are worth the money I spent.

 

[Upland]

I am also in the market for a set of budget friendly binoculars. I compared the Vortex Diamondback (Non HD version) with the BX-1 and BX-2 side by side and I was sad to find that both Leupold binos lacked in clarity in comparison. I haven't had a chance to look through any Meoptas yet.

 

[zpooch]

I have a pair of the Diamondbacks. They're ok. When it gets really cold it is almost impossible to turn the focus knob on them.

 

[LCH]

I am not a connoisseur of optics, but my kids have Diamondback HDs and I have Theron Questas. The Vortex aren't bad, but using them side by side with my Questas, the Theron binos are better IMO.

 

[ZMT588]

Go up another 50 and invest in leupold bx-2 alpines.

 

[Ben Lamb]

Another vote for the Theron's. I have the Questa's and they are comparable to the Vortex Vipers. I purchased the Wapati's first, and used them for a few years before upgrading. Nothing wrong with that glass at all & it outpunches the dollar figure: http://theronoptics.com/WAPITI_HQ_BINOCULARS.html

 

[Rapptor]

I have a pair of the old Diamondbacks and McKenzies. No comparison the Diamondbacks are better so if the HDs are an improvement then it's a no-brainer.

 

[sbhooper]

I have had a Diamondback bino for several years now. I bought them on a closeout somewhere. They have been fine, for my needs and did not cost a whole bunch.

 

[Aussie_hunter_JD]

Before I upgraded to Leica I ran Meopta and they were good

 

[chuckchili]

I have the Diamondbacks, got them a couple years ago on a Black Friday sale. I think they're decent for the money and the glass seems to fit my needs for now.

 

[TM0218]

Thanks everyone so far for the suggestions. Seems like I’ll be looking at Theron, Diamondbacks, and Meopta. Any suggestions for maybe some higher priced optics that I could look for used?

 

[bryan79]

Take a look at the nikon prostaff 7s. Just picked a pair up and I am pretty happy with the clarity and build for a pair of 200$ binos. With that said my brother has the diamondback hd and they are very comparable.

 

[Outlaw99]

I can’t believe there’s been no mention of Mavens. Amazing glass for the money

 

[FI460]

I bought a pair of Diamondbacks with my first paycheck after graduating college. They were ok, but by the end of the first season I found I was primarily relying on my rifle scope in anything less than full sun.

I upgraded and the Diamondbacks turned into my truck binos. I'd save a little more or explore some of the other options.