Best lightweight Binoculars for backpacking

hereinaz

WKR
Rokslide Sponsor
Joined
Dec 21, 2016
Messages
3,649
Location
Arizona
I use 10x32 Sig rangefinders, combo saves weight and space. Glass is very good, but not alpha.
 

Fritz D

FNG
Joined
Dec 21, 2023
Messages
81
Location
Idaho
Zeiss SFL 8x30. I love mine. 16 oz. Only had hem for a couple of months but I’m using them all the time. Very impressed.
 

eamyrick

WKR
Joined
Apr 24, 2018
Messages
1,385
Location
Central Texas
Swaro cl 8x30s are amazing glass and about the perfect size. I have some el 8x32 I also really like. For longer backpacking trips where hunting is not the goal I pack my 8x25 pockets.
 

gr8fuldoug

WKR
Rokslide Sponsor
Joined
May 21, 2013
Messages
5,442
Location
Old Bethpage, NY
There's many great options. It's our pleasure, as a long standing supporting vendor here, to discuss the different available options and special opportunities with you. Please give a call, 516-217-1000, when you have the time. Thanks
 
Joined
Jan 26, 2018
Messages
682
Location
NE MO
If I were buying new today it would be the Swarovski NL 8X32

I’ve been using my Swarovski SLC 7X30’s for 30+ years. If you can find a used pair I highly recommend them.
 

Spoobs

FNG
Joined
Dec 3, 2024
Messages
6
I came across Oberwerk not too long ago and was super impressed with the quality for the price paid. Their advertisement angle is towards astronomers, wildlife/birdwatchers, and general outdoors / hiking so you don't see their name pop up often in hunting circles. They make a range of products at different price points all the way up to $6000 mounted binocular telescopes. I picked up a their 8x32 SE porro binoculars and was blown away by how large the image was, how deep everything in the image that was still in focus without messing with the focus dial, and how much more detail I could see at night. They put my buddy's mid tier vortex binoculars to shame, and were cheaper.

The astronomy community loves their rooftop prism options as well which would be better for weight. Almost everyone agrees that the porro's have better image, but at the cost of weight.
 
Top