Monocular VS Binocular

[Trey Arentz]

Hey guys,
Just looking for some input on anyone running a monocular for whitetails in the Midwest? I usually carry some cheaper 10x42s but I rarely use them while hunting swamps or woods. I would eventually upgrade to a high end pair of 10xs or 8xs but that’s not in the budget right now. Anyone ever try the vortex solos? If so what size? Would almost be perfect for in a pocket and not much bulk around the chest. Thanks!!

 

[rayporter]

i carry a monocular at all times. but it is not a substitute for good bins.

short hunts in areas that i am familiar with, it is all that i carry. i find them very handy around my neck and stuffed in a pocket.

 

[stiltd683]

I have a Solo R/T. It works pretty well but the big strengths are it's compact/ light enough to carry all the time. I usually keep it clipped to the front of my kit bag so it's easy to grab and get rough range estimates or look around.

But I agree with Ray, it's no substitute for binos or a spotting scope.

 

[BLJ]

I have 2 solos. One with ranging reticle. Compact, light, convenient. I've carried them in the eastern hardwoods as a bino substitute for less weight and bulk. Worked for me personally. I think if I was watching a lot of open fields, I would go with something else.

 

[Trey Arentz]

Exactly what I was looking for! I would use the monocular as a substitute so long and thick hunts. I don’t get a ton of open land scouting, but that’s where I would upgrade to a better and more sufficient pair of binos for out west.

 

[Trey Arentz]

Also, any preference on the 28 or 36?

 

[ChrisAU]

I often just use my rangefinder as a monocular

 

[mncoolbeans]

Great Discussion. I've got the Vortex Solo 10x25mm and love it for deer and turkey hunting. It's small, lightweight, compact and provides less movement with one arm moving versus two. You can string it around your neck or quick pocket it vs. Binos in my mind. How ever Binos are better for hunting situations were you glass most of time and need more precise vision control and more power for longer range. They both have their spots and purposes.

In the MN Woods bow or rifle hunting for deer, I love my Monocular, Way less movement in the stand vs even lifting up the rifle to look through the scope. Quick and easy!

 

[stiltd683]

As for 25 vs 36, I prefer the 36. I ended up selling my 10x24 Solo and keeping my 8x36 Solo R/T. The 24 just didn't seem to let enough light in, though it was primary the reticle and the clip that made me like the R/T.

 

[gr8fuldoug]

We sell a bunch of the MonoPix MP-842IS MonoPix MP-842IS which is only $119.99

It's a pretty handy kit to have

The MonoPix™ MP-842IS is a Monocular and Smartphone Adapter bundle. The included monocular is 8x42mm with fully coated lenses. The included smartphone adapter fits most smartphones, including dual-camera phones. Simply attach the monocular to the smart phone adapter and your smartphone. There are no additional parts needed. Take pictures and videos and share them instantly with family and friends via text message, email or social media. Documenting sporting events or nature has never been easier! Included is a protective pouch, wrist strap and microfiber cloth.

MonoPix Instructional Page:
IMPORTANT: If your smartphone has multiple cameras (iPhone X/8+/7+), first please review the instructions specific to your phone

HOOKUPZ MULTIPLE CAMERA
Using HookUpz Smartphone Adapters With Multiple Camera Phones:
For Apple iPhone X users, only digitally zoom after you lock the focus and exposure (hold finger on screen on center of image viewed through optic until yellow box ‘AE/AF LOCK’ is displayed). This will prevent software confusion on some iOS versions between the two cameras, which otherwise may cause a black screen effect when digitally zooming.
For all Apple dual camera phones (iPhone X/8+/7+), align adapter to the 1x wide-angle camera, which is the one nearest the corner.
For Android dual camera phones, align adapter to the primary camera.

 

[fwafwow]

Thanks for posting this thread, and to those who replied. It was helpful as I decide whether and how to go more minimalist for tree stand bow hunting - or maybe more broadly.

 

[Hondo]

I used a Vortex Solo 8x36 R/T during the last archery season in lieu of my rangefinder and really liked it. Prior to that I primarily used it on a lanyard to read ear tags on cattle. I believe I will stick with it next year.

That Hookupz adapter from Doug looks interesting. He has provided me good advice and deals in the past.