What is the best value in used high end binos right now ($1000+)?

[gooberfish]

What is the difference between Zeiss SF and SFL.

SF is slightly sharper, wider FOV, better edge to edge clarity. The SFL has the advantage with size and weight (the 40mm SFL is about the same size as the 32mm SF and they're within ~1 ounce of each other). Some people say the SF has a cool tint and that the SFL is ever so slightly better for color neutrality, but I can't say it's anything that has ever bothered me (or that I've ever noticed) on my SF 8x42s.

The SFs are way more ergonomic than two barely shaped tubes have any right to be, and even with the weight and size penalties I can use them handheld for hours at a time without my arms getting tired. They're also one of the only binoculars I've used that don't give me the rolling ball effect if that's something you're sensitive to. I probably sound like an ad at this point, and as others have said everyone's eyes will be different so test before buying, but they really are that good.

 

[Captains1911]

Sorry for the dumb question, but what exactly qualifies as “alpha?” I understand in general that it refers to high end, but is it subjective or is there some sort of criteria?

 

[4th_point]

Sorry for the dumb question, but what exactly qualifies as “alpha?” I understand in general that it refers to high end, but is it subjective or is there some sort of criteria?

Most people I know would just say Swaro, Leica, Zeiss - their top models. Overall image quality, but not necessarily the best for all criteria, all in one.

 

[Spiral Horn]

The title “Alpha” in terms of binoculars has been around for quite some time. It traditionally meant those brands/models with their own in-house manufacturing operation producing product lines offering consistent optical excellence, exceptional build quality and the best materials, as well as durability. These were often synonymous with trend-setting design. To a lesser degree this also considered brand prestige. This usually meant premium models from Leica and Zeiss as they were the first to offer “phase corrected” premium roof-prism designs combined with the best glass. Later, Swarovski joined the club. Some also consider the Nikon EDG an Alpha.

Now, decades later the moniker “Alpha” still has some prestige but nowhere near what it used to. Others have been able to develop very good optical designs and Zeiss and Ohara make their glass widely available. The explosion of OEM manufacture make it possible for just about anyone to contract Kamakura/LOW to build a high quality optic that they market under a unique name.

Still today, the premium models of Zeiss, Swarovski and Leica bow to nobody for their optical excellence, materials/component/build quality and durability. Although the mid grades have closed ground the true “Alphas” still offer a bit more highly refined optical device.

I posted the above to the same - What is an “Alpha?” question a few years ago. A smidge better resolution, a smidge better CA control, a smidge deeper natural color saturation, a smidge better balance-focuser-skin feel, a smidge easier overall view with less eye fatigue = all of those smidges add up to a more deeply satisfying optical viewing experience. In essence, the best of the best.

 

[BrotherMovesOn]

Anyone care to elaborate more between the SF/SFL's, SLC, and EL? Certain models/mags to look for? A case for a certain one vs the others? Actually had a line on slc 15x but they were pre HD (neu) so I passed. Are UHD in the conversation? Maven? What Meoptas?

Yeah, what about Meopta?

 

[BrotherMovesOn]

I posted the above to the same - What is an “Alpha?” question a few years ago. A smidge better resolution, a smidge better CA control, a smidge deeper natural color saturation, a smidge better balance-focuser-skin feel, a smidge easier overall view with less eye fatigue = all of those smidges add up to a more deeply satisfying optical viewing experience. In essence, the best of the best.

Are Vortex UHD alpha? Can they compete with NLs?

 

[ghostrider272]

Meopta is very good. Have a pair of Mostar B1 10x42 HDs and they are very good. Almost as good as my Swarovski ELs and were picked up for 1/3 of the price. Unfortunately, as of now, all warranty work has to be sent back to Europe as they don't have a US customer service office currently. I picked mine up before that happened. If you're not worried about having to send them back, they are a screaming deal.

 

[Elkman17]

Meopta vs vortex uhd?

 

[JGRaider]

Meopta vs vortex uhd?

In the $1000 class glass, you'd have to have them side by side on tripods to nitpick any major difference, and then it would be just that, nitpicking. Ergos play just as big, or bigger factor in binocular performance IMO. If it doesn't "fit" your facial features, you're pissing in the wind no matter what they cost.

IMO, for pure optical performance at a value, the Tract Toric UHD's can't be beat. To answer your question directly, and I have both, I'll take the Vortex UHD over the meostar hd.

 

[Elkman17]

Thank you, I’ve been looking at both the meopta and vortex uhd’s trying to stay at or below $1000. I haven’t heard of, or looked at the tract toric’s.

 

[WRO]

Thank you, I’ve been looking at both the meopta and vortex uhd’s trying to stay at or below $1000. I haven’t heard of, or looked at the tract toric’s.

Nikon monarch hgs need to be on your list as well.


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[Elkman17]

Nikon monarch hgs need to be on your list as well.


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I had looked at those, I’m really looking for a 12x50 or a 10x50 and Nikon doesn’t make those in the hg line.

 

[WRO]

I had looked at those, I’m really looking for a 12x50 or a 10x50 and Nikon doesn’t make those in the hg line.

The difference between a 10x42 and 10x50 is minimal.


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[Cowbell]

I get to guide about 5 months out of the year in all types of country and many different clients with lots of glass. The Maven B6 binoculars are far and away the best bang for the buck that I have seen and I could sell a pair to about half my clients during hunts if I retailed them on-site. And no, I'm not sponsored by them in any way. Their CS is also lights out.

 

[JLH3]

Are Vortex UHD alpha? Can they compete with NLs?

First off, Im not sure anything competes with the NL’s. But I’d say the UHD are A- glass.

 

[anonymous22]

Are Vortex UHD alpha? Can they compete with NLs?

Meopta vs vortex uhd?

UHDs are comparable optically to the SLCs, with the benefit of the warranty and at the cost of the bino being larger.

 

[Spiral Horn]

The difference between a 10x42 and 10x50 is minimal.

If all else is equal this is often not the case. IME the majority of optical brands have vastly different optical component systems in their 50 vs 42mm device designs. It isn't just about exit pupil size. Greater focal length combined with more robust prisms and lens arrays often lead to greater light transmission and a more immersive image. This is often most visible in low light but it is always there. Where I often notice it is in long glassing sessions where I'm trying to pull detail from the image - with larger objective images I often suffer much less eye fatigue and a more immersive overall viewing experience.

My 2 cents

 

[Huntnpack 2]

@Undrgrndprdcts Take a look at the Zeiss SFL x50 Lineup. Great bang for you $$

 

[AZDC]

Has diamondback ever made 15x56 UHDS? I’m curious as to why they skipped from 12x to 18x. I’d probably snag a pair of those. 18x may be good for me considering I’m in AZ but i’m concerned about it being too magnification.