8x vs 10x if you carry a quality 6x LRF?

[fwafwow]

I've read the threads about the opinions on and differences between 8x and 10x. I was pretty much decided on the 8x (Zeiss) because I spend much more time whitetail hunting in the east and 1-2x per year out west. BUT then a buddy said, "why don't you just use your rangefinder to see better when you are in the stand?" His point is that my (new Leica LRF) is 6x, so 8x isn't a huge difference. "Just go w/ the 10x!" I realize even a great LRF isn't comparable to a set of binos, but wonder if anyone took this into account in making the same decision.

FWIW, I already have a pair of Tract 8x42s that I will maybe sell when I get the new binos (definitely if I get 8x Zeiss). But I also could see me getting the 10x now, then upgrading the 8x down the road..... Got my eye on some 8x Leica Trinovids.....

 

[Jimss]

I bought the new Leicas 10x with rangefinder. I believe the rangefinder is good out past 1,000 yards. I don't shoot 1/2 that distance but at least I get a reading and know how much closer to stalk! It's SUPER nice having both binos plus rangefinder in the same unit rather than having to go back and forth and keeping a separate rangefinder in a spot where you can get to it quickly.

I prefer 10x binos for my style of hunting. I hunt open country where the additional power is great for locating game. I may loose a little quality early in late in the day but it's worth it having a little more power to spot an antler tine, ear, white rump, etc at longer range. If I was hunting tight spaces with lots of brush I can see where 6 or 8x would be nice for quickly locating game at close range.

10x is about as big as I would go for hand-holding binos without a tripod.I mostly glass sitting down with elbows propped on knees to stabilize binos. Sometimes I set my binos on top of my spotting scope to stabilize them. It's possible to glass standing up but a little more difficult with a hefty backpack on my back and if the wind is howling.

 

[Fatcamp]

Ya, a rangefinder sucks for spotting game. I couldn't imagine spending the day looking through one.

They in no way compare to a quality pair of binoculars, heck, they probably don't compare to a cheap pair.

 

[General RE LEE]

I prefer 8x for deer hunting here in Tennessee. 8x is still plenty of power for glassing fields and the better FOV is a plus in the woods. 10x is a bit much when glassing in the woods and the FOV is going to be smaller.


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[vermeire]

At 6x you may be ok, but you really need to compare the field of view as well as the light gathering ability of you RF. I had planned on only carrying my 4x RF when archery hunting in PA but it just wasn't good enough even when compared to my 8x24 binos. The terrain and habitat that you hunt will obviously make a difference too.