10x42 or 8x42?!

cerec_cat

FNG
Joined
Dec 31, 2012
Messages
80
Location
New Mexico
Probably been rehashed here before. Planning on upgrading my binos, possibly a rangefinder combination. I hunt here in New Mexico. Seems like the 10's are the most popular but wonder what you guys think.
 

Manosteel

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Jan 24, 2013
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Alberta, Canada
Have used both 10x42 and 8x42 and prefer the 8x's. To my eyes and the way I hunt I feel that I get a more stable clear picture. If I need to get a closer look at something I get closure by a hundred yards or so or pull out the spotter.
 

Matt Cashell

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Feb 25, 2012
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Location
Western MT
I like them both. I usually use a 10X42 or 8X32.

It is really a personal preference.

Generally the pros for each are:

10x:

More detail when steady.

8x:

Brighter than the same objective size 10x.
Easier to hold steady.
Wider field of view.

The same comparisons can be made between 6X and 8X and between 10x and 12x (assuming objective diameters the same).

Use what works for you, not what works for someone else.
 

Beastmode

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May 9, 2012
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Location
Shasta County, CA
I have used both and prefer 10x42s. I can hold them still enough and if I'm gassing for a long period of time I can rest them on top of my angled spotter eyepiece.
 
Joined
Jul 30, 2013
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3,428
Had 8's switched to 10's about 2 years ago, when I buy again I will go back to 8's
 

Shrek

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Jul 17, 2012
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Hilliard Florida
I will have my 10x42's for sale soon. Just too much to keep stable when you're using one hand or your heart is pounding. Put them on the tripod and they're majic but I've got an 80mm spotter on the tripod. 8x is a better compromise.
 

SHTF

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Feb 4, 2013
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Colorado
I prefer 8x. If you want the blog post on why, let me know.

Robby would love to learn more about the 8x 10x Ive often had that debate myself. I went with the 10x's though. But I am actually researching alot on Optics and would love to hear your take on it. Thanks.
 

fastphin

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Dec 28, 2014
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Nevada
Joined
Nov 7, 2012
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S. UTAH
I like my 10's. I had 8's and was ok with them until I took my brother to ND one year. He was spotting more deer than I was. I switched to 10's after that and like them better. I had to send them in once during season and used my 8's for a week. I hope that doesn't happen again.
 

MattB

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Joined
Sep 29, 2012
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5,743
For the hunting I do, I prefer the 10x. The 8.5x Swarovskis are a decent middle ground, something to consider.
 
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