Vortex Optics

[Washington Hunter]

I'll be in the market for a new pair of binoculars early this summer. I've heard some decent things over on Archery Talk about Vortex and I was wondering if any of you folks here had any experience with them?

Any suggestions on other brands would be welcome as well. I'm looking for a pair that isn't going to be extremely heavy or cumbersome, is weather resistant, fog proof, and extremely clear.

Chances are I'm going to be looking for a pair of 8x42's in the $150 - $250 range.

[PABowhntr]

Dan,

I can be of some help. I recently purchased a set of Vortex Razors and did a little review on them. It was posted here on the optics forum but also in my HNI journal. Here is the link.....

http://www.huntingnet.com/fieldjournal/fieldjournal_detail.aspx?nID=606

On the other hand the Razors are a bit more than you are willing to spend. The models you may want to consider are the "Stokes"Sidewinder or Talon and possibly the new Vortex Fury set to debut this summer. I have heard some very positive comments about the Sidewinder in comparison to other bins in that price range. The Furys should definitely be a solid performer with their silver coated roof prisms. I have a pair on order and hope to review them shortly.

I also have some experience with their customer service and must say the folks I have spoken to are friendly and knowledgable. I would not hesitate to call them up with a question or comment.

Vortex Optics is one of those companies that is going to be making big waves once they become a bit more established within the industry.

The best prices I have seen on Vortex bins seem to be from Doug at www.cameralandny.com .

Hope this helps.

[wihunter402]

Dan,
I got the Audubon which are made by Vortex and I love them. They are the 8x42. They are made in the USA right here about 3 miles from where I work in Middleton Wisconsin. Anyway good luck and I think you will really like them if you get them.

[nubo]

Dan!

I have bought the Sidewinders 10X42's and I have to say that they are a big inprovement over my old Bushnell's . The price was right around what your looking to spend on Bin's .
I also had to call their customer service as well ,and they are amongst the best people I've dealt with .
The sidewinder's are very clear and very comfortable to wear while hunting . I can't say anything more about them other than they're an awsome glass and you wouldn't be disappointed with them.

nubo

[Washington Hunter]

Excellent information, guys!

I'm fairly certain I'll be ordering a paid of the Diamondbacks sometime early this summer.

http://www.vortexoptics.com/binoculars/view/144

I've never spent more than $30 on a pair of binoculars and I've had the headaches of using sub-par glass (IE headaches) while glassing for long periods of time.

I spent $200 on a range finder last year so I figure its about time I invest in a decent pair of binoculars. Everything I've heard about Vortex has been excellent, so I think this is the route I'll go. Thanks for the information!