10x30 IS or 8x32 Bino

[Bowhunter1740]

Hello,

I used to run 16x42 Zulu’s and did a swap with a member on here for 15x56 SLC’s as I build a better mule deer glassing setup. I have read through most the forums, and wanted more specific input on this question. As an archery hunter would you opt for 10x30 zulu’s or 8x32 uhd’s or used 8x32 nl pures? These will be paired for the 15x56 SLC’s for thorough glassing and a 65mm spotter most likely the leica apo televid 25-50, maybe an ATX.

I hunt all across the west, but primarily WA, ID, WY, and CO. There will be some rifle hunts with my father as he ages. But my preferred weapon choice is with a bow for mulies.

Any input is appreciated. Have a great season!

 

[ruffledfeathers]

If the weight is alright for you, the canon 10x42L IS are unbeatable.

 

[Coleredding00]

I like 8x on a tripod a lot. Haven’t been bit by the image stabilized bug yet.

 

[nm.otter]

Compare the FOVs -- wider has advantages if you're scanning for movement.

8x is about my limit for decent free-hand glassing. Vortex 8x32 UHDs were noticeably jumpier (I'm guessing exit pupil) than 8x42s.

 

[Legend]

There is a huge performance loss of going with anything smaller than a 42mm objective. Lots of pros and cons to different magnification, pick your favorite.

The surface area of 32s is 8cm2 and the surface area of 42s is 13.8cm2. Surface area is critical for gathering light.

If you are looking past 50yards you need at least a 42mm objective. Or you only want to use them during full sun.

8x42 are my choice for archery and rifle.

 

[Mberline]

I ended up with a pair of 8x32 NL pures and don’t have any desire to go back to 10x42 like I had before. If you are near central Washington you are more than welcome to come check them out and do a little glassing.

 

[swavescatter]

If you spend most of your time behind a tripod, get the best glass you can afford. If you're mostly mobile and constantly glassing terrain as you move, IS is unbeatable.

 

[Bowhunter1740]

I ended up with a pair of 8x32 NL pures and don’t have any desire to go back to 10x42 like I had before. If you are near central Washington you are more than welcome to come check them out and do a little glassing.

I actually grew up and spend a lot of time in central Washington. Work/live on the West side now, but if you are around Ellensburg at all I would definitely have interest!

 

[Bowhunter1740]

If you spend most of your time behind a tripod, get the best glass you can afford. If you're mostly mobile and constantly glassing terrain as you move, IS is unbeatable.

I have hunted with both styles. In my experience deer hunting though I see more deer on the tripod that I can stalk. Where as running and gunning with IS I seem to see more deer that have already been pressured/spooked.

IS has been the best setup for elk for me. But I am struggling with an almost 40% reduction in FOV for some IS bino’s. Any experience that pushed you one way or the other?

 

[Mberline]

Dm sent.

 

[StupidLightweight]

My bet is you’ll spot more game with 10x30 IS binos over any traditional bino. They won’t be as flashy or optically brilliant, but if the goal is finding animals, image stabilization is impossible to beat.