Vortex razor 10x42 or 12x50

[Johnksully]

I'm debating between the 10x42 and the 12x50. I'm trying to get by without my spotter. Are the 12x50 necessary for glassing? Will be mostly back country archery elk hunting.

 

[Willystyle]

I think it depends on how you plan to use them. I use 10x42 for more versatility...good for glassing from a tripod, but not 100% necessary for when you need to take a quick look on the move. I have found 12x50s are very wobbly and harder to focus when not used in conjunction with the tripod.

 

[wannakillabigbull]

I've owned both 10s and 12s and think they both have their place depending on the person. The Razor HD 12x50s really are a sweet binocular considering how light they are for a 50mm compared to other binos on the market. Though there is better glass on the market I do love the ergonomics of the Razor 12x50s. If you have steady enough hands for glassing freehand I would personally choose the 12s. Go check them out in store and see how you do with image shake and make a decision from there.

Brady Miller posted a couple articles over the last year or so detailing different optics systems and why he chose to move to the Razor HD 12x50s as an all around bino to pair with a spotter. Definitely some good stuff in those articles.

Why carrying multiple optics are essential for locating more deer | goHUNT
Are 12 power binoculars the ultimate glassing setup? | goHUNT

 

[HookUp]

If you are strictly deer hunting gets the 12's. If you are deer and elk hunting get the 10's.

 

[LegShot]

I think either way you are going to want a spotter. I have 12's and love them but I find myself using my hunting partner's spotter a lot.