Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Around the Campfire => Topic started by: E. Jensen on September 23, 2017, 10:15:49 pm

Title: Binoculars
Post by: E. Jensen on September 23, 2017, 10:15:49 pm
Hey everyone.  I'm a forester who does various inventory contracts around the country.  I was using compact binoculars to spot tree twigs up high in Arkansas during the winter, to ID certain species by the buds.  This worked really well, however I bet I can get better results than the $12 walmart pair.  I'm looking at either Cabela's intensity 8x25 or Vortex diamondback 8x28.  They have to be compact as this is already a luxury to make room for on my extensive list of gear I carry.  Does anyone have any experience with either of these brands?  I think I've decided on the 8x.  10x would be nice but I think issues with shaking and light intake would not be worth it.  I've got a Cabela's gift card AND a $20 off coupon. 
Title: Re: Binoculars
Post by: aaron on September 24, 2017, 09:51:57 am
I have vortex DB and love 'em. clear and bright, easy on the eyes. Once I dropped 'em in mud- they were 1/2 submerged in pudding-like muck. Left 'em in the bottom of the canoe for a few days, and when I got home put them in a bucket of water overnight. Swished 'em around and they're good as new. pretty heavy, tho.
Title: Re: Binoculars
Post by: High-Desert on September 24, 2017, 10:17:15 am
For the price vortex are hard to beat. A friend of mine has the diamond backs, and they are great Binos, and I use the Viper HD and they up
There with the quality of way more expensive brands. I'd go the vortex route over cabelas. Plus the warranty is unbeatable.
Title: Re: Binoculars
Post by: Pat B on September 24, 2017, 12:17:05 pm
In my experience compact binos can be hard on the eyes. I have a pair of Tasco, 10x25 that are nice binocs but will tire out my eyes easily with extended use. I now use a Burris 10x25 that are twice as big but not so tiring. With a good shoulder strap or a bino harness they are easily carried without much trouble.
Title: Re: Binoculars
Post by: Zuma on September 24, 2017, 06:40:23 pm
Just wondering if a good camera would do better. Get your best snap and log it .
Then you could study it all later with super zoom on a big screen puter.
Zuma
Title: Re: Binoculars
Post by: nclonghunter on September 25, 2017, 03:17:31 pm
Zeiss makes good ones...check online
Title: Re: Binoculars
Post by: chamookman on September 26, 2017, 03:16:33 am
Zeiss make the best glass goin'. I've been using a Pair made in 1926 (WWII era sent home by My Uncle) for 50 years - still clearer than most. The Germans have a lock on Quality Binos  :OK. Bob
Title: Re: Binoculars
Post by: E. Jensen on September 28, 2017, 10:31:57 am
I'm paid by the plot and so accuracy combined with speed is the name of the game.  I need to just shoot the buds and move on.  It's usually not that difficult, although I used em alot when I was first learning species.  Every now and then I can't get an instant ID on the bark, or theres some hog or deer that is fun to stop and watch.