The 8s are much easier to handhold and are much brighter. What was trying to convey was that each time I switch back and forth the one I switch to is my new favorite. I am amazed at both.
Kuiu 120 merino or first lite kiln depending on temps
Kuiu Gila Short sleeve (it helps with movement between merino and Peloton)
Kuiu Peloton 97 or Pro Merino 200 zip depending on temps
Peloton 240 hoodie or SG M7 depending on rain or high wind
BD access down hooded jacket in the pack for when...
Don’t underestimate the effectiveness of 8s on a tripod. I will often during a glassing session, depending on terrain and distance, use the 8s more than the 14s. The amazing clarity and wide FOV makes them very effective at seeing movement when mounted to a tripod.
I went back and forth between either 8s or 10s on the chest to compliment my 14s for sometime. Landed on the 8s. Very happy with the combo. The 8s are very bright, so easy to handhold and the depth of field is just unreal. I will use both on a tripod and when ever I switch from one to the other...
I run NL 8’s, NL 14’s and Kowa 88s. Each time I go from the 8s to 14’s I think they are my new favorite. Both are so incredible I can’t imagine not have both on me. The glass in the Kowa is, in my opinion, even better than the glass in the NL’s. The detail you can see through the 88 is stunning.
I use the Aziak Front country with a Tricer BP head with my 88. Good balance of weight and steadiness. The BP head saves some weight over the VA-5 and is at least as smooth. Keep in mind the Front country has twist locks.
It would seem the 14NL’s might fit your case scenario quite well. Virtually same field of view as the B6 and only 5oz more. Not that you said that you were looking to change but you mentioned the SLC’s were heavy and rarely used. I really love my 14’s.
I went with 8x nl’s on the chest and 14’s in bag for tripod use. I chose the 8s over the 10s because I struggle with handholding. When out I’m always trying different techniques to eliminate as much shake as possible. What I have found is that if I use the brim of the hat technique with the...
They are not radically different from 8x but in big country you will be feeling the need for more. If you carry a set of 15s in the pack for the tripod then they are great for handholding while getting to your glassing spot. I think the wide field of view and lower mag can allow your mind...
The Sirui 124+VA5 is a great deal. Just picked one up last week for my son. I actually found it for $169. I just looked and found it for $199. Really nice tripod. Has some features that I wish my Frontcountry had.
Has any one had a chance to look through the Zeiss SFL 8x30? They look like a nice option for a semi affordable and light weight chest bino. I currently have the NL 8x42 I run on my chest but I’m looking for an option when I want to go ultralight.
I use a pair of Kowa bd 2 6.5 x32 when I’m in the dark woods of the PNW. They have an apparent field of view of 10 degrees. That with 6.5 power makes them the easiest one hand binos I have found. They are surprisingly bright and very sharp in the middle. The image does degrade at the edges but...
I just picked up an 88s used on eBay. Was a little concerned with going the eBay route but it came as new as I could ask for and saved some 1400 over going new. From the limited use I am very impressed with clarity and brightness.
I went with the outdoorsman. Very easy to install. I considered the Swaro but the locking mechanism seemed a bit risky, like if it was accidentally disengaged it might drop the binos. I’m sure I was overthinking it but the outdoorsman’s is cheaper and seemed more secure.
Im living my 14s but my glass addiction is still pulling me in. I am looking at a Kowa 883 at what appears to be a great deal. Have you ever had a chance to look through one. I’ve never used a big spotter but I like the idea of having one. Do you feel the weight penalty of roughly 9oz is worth...
I have been looking at upgrading from my Slik 634 to the Aziak Frontcountry. The 634 is not stable enough for standing and I like want to have the option of standing. The Frontcountry is heavier (6oz)but from the reviews it is a bit more stable than the 634 but I haven’t found a direct comparison.
I have been eying the Frontcountry as well. Share your impressions once you have had a chance to put it to some use. Really curious as to how stable it is at standing height.
If you don’t already, get them on a tripod. Alpha glass can only be truly appreciated when on a tripod. Even when I am hunting the thick forests of the PNW I will carry my tripod just in case I come to the edge of a clear cut so have the ability to mount them. Looking through alpha glass on a...