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- Jan 5, 2012
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Matt breaks down optics for the Layman like me
http://www.rokslide.com/2012-01-09-05-09-42/optics/209-what-we-look-for
http://www.rokslide.com/2012-01-09-05-09-42/optics/209-what-we-look-for
Thanks BB!! I was curious for a mid range optic, what do you think of the Vortex Talon HD's?
sk1,
I don't know what article you are referencing, but I take it they meant that 87% of the Field of View (FOV) was sharp (high resolution) in the Vipers while about 80% of the FOV was sharp in the Talons. When we calculate it out in the 10x models then the Viper has a 319 foot FOV at 1000 yards. That means that about 277.5 feet (87% of 319)of the FOV is sharp. Then we take the Talons and consider that with their monster 348 feet/1000 yards FOV they have about 278 feet (80% of 348) of sharp FOV. So the Talon shows slightly more "Sweet Spot" than the Viper. Of course those calculations are based on the numbers you provided.
Then we need to consider that past that 80% the FOV isn't useless, it just isn't as perfect as the center of the FOV, so when scanning, you can see something out at the edge, and then move it to the center of the field to evaluate it. This is how we naturally look at things. Our natural FOV is sharpest at the center, and loses sharpness at the edge (peripheral vision). When we see something with our peripheral vision, we then look directly at it for maximum detail. this is a natural way to glass too, and makes me wonder why so many people get obsessed with edge performance in optics. Do we really spend a lot of time staring at the edge?
As far as the differences between the two: The FOV is a pretty big one, and as I mentioned in my article "clarity" can mean different things to different people. Both binoculars have really similar views in regards to centerfield resolution and contrast. I don't remember a big difference in color bias either. The biggest difference i can think of is build design. The Talons are an open bridge design, while the Vipers are a piano hinge style. Also the build quality of the Viper is a notch higher, IMO, with a really solid feel and good fit and finish. That is not to say that the Talons I have seen are poorly built; they are not. The other big difference is price. I have not tested them side by side in low light, but they are constructed of similar materials and technologies, and have similar exit pupils, so they should perform similarly in low light.
I hope that helps.
if you were curious, here is the article i read comparing the talon vs viper vs razor http://www.opticsreviewer.com/talon-hd-vs-viper-hd.html
Kevin,
The FOV on the 8X42 Razor (2012) is kind of narrow. The FOV on the 10X42 is pretty good. I don't think they are available yet, but rumor has it that the new Razor has a field flattener lens like the Swarovision. I am interested to see one myself.