Are 8’s enough for out West?

[theleo91386]

2x isn't going to be a game changer for this application

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

2x isn't a game changer until it is. Considering you and I don't know where the OP is hunting, the magnification question has an open ended answer. For my hunting it makes a difference. For his hunting I have no idea so didn't say one way or the other.

 

[ramont]

I live in SW Montana and I use a 6 power rangefinder, 10x40 binoculars, and a 10-20 power spotting scope with image stabalization. Most of the time I use the rangefinder while moving. I use the binoculars while sitting more often than I use the spotter but if I want to see something that is far off in detail then I use the 10-20 power spotting scope because it allows me to see well enough out to 1000 yards to at least see if the elk is a bull. I hunt where the bulls require a brow tine of certain length to be legal. Since I hunt from a ground blind most often I prefer to use the rangefinder or the binoculars for most of my spotting. Most people tend to think of binoculars as a light alternative to a spotting scope but I notice that nobody has mentioned that they are also fantastic for helping you to see the fine details close up. As I scan the area close to me I look for elk/deer parts, not the entire animal. I look for legs, ears, noses, antler tips, etc. and a 10 power is great for providing me with a clear, crisp image of what's in those tangled messes of downed trees.

 

[realunlucky]

We will have to agree to disagree on this. Imo 2x just doesn't make that difference in detail. Of course I run slc 8's and my hunting partner runs 10's I have compared them side by side more than once and think it's a moot point.

2x isn't a game changer until it is. Considering you and I don't know where the OP is hunting, the magnification question has an open ended answer. For my hunting it makes a difference. For his hunting I have no idea so didn't say one way or the other.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

 

[Pezboat]

All of this is great advice. I think I’m leaning towards 8x42’s for a few reasons. First, they’ll work best for hunting thick cover in my home state while chasing whitetails (95% of the usage). 2nd, it’s pretty flat here. So thin air and mountains will make it very hard for me to freehand with 10’s (and yes, I do have a tripod). And finally, I’m pretty realistic and realize that my first few hunts, I’d consider just seeing elk a win. I think with 8’s I’ll be able to do that. This is for a 2019 elk hunt. Most likely OTC. I haven’t picked a state or unit yet, so I’m not sure what the terrain will be like.