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Jesse's Hunting > Hunting Articles > Hunting Gear > Giving Vortex Optics a Whirl
Giving Vortex Optics a Whirl
Dave Blake - JHO ProStaff
- L.A., CA
May 21, 2007
Optics are a frequent topic of discussion on hunting forums. The pros and cons of various brands and styles, and the opinions many hunters have of them can provide almost never-ending debate about which is best.
The rule used to be that the more money spent the better the glass and that is still true to a point. Quality glass can be expensive. But good, useable binoculars don’t have to break the bank.
Vortex Vultures - Good Glass for the Money
The Vortex Vultures proved that workable binoculars don't have to cost a small fortune. |
What most hunters are looking for is a pair of optics that will give them a clear picture at any level of light throughout the day, and won't put a big hole in their bank account. This past hunting season I found myself wanting a pair of ten-power binos to help me glass over greater distances.
While surfing the Internet, I found a relatively new U.S. optics company called Vortex. Their binoculars and spotting scopes are made in China and range from about $80 all the way to $1000. I was particularly interested in their Vulture 10x50 roof prism model for $299.
This rugged, rubber coated binocular is nitrogen filled and multi-coated for a clear, waterproof view of the landscape. The ergonomic design of the rubber housing provides a non-slip grip in wet conditions, and the 50mm objective brings in plenty of light for early morning and late evening glassing.
The focus mechanism is easy to maneuver and focuses quickly. There is some slight distortion around the edges, but most mid-range binos have this problem. Overall clarity is quite good, even when compared to my Leicas. I was able to glass through them all day during the 2006 deer and elk season without eye fatigue.
I can vouch for their ruggedness as well. After taking a tumble on a deer hunt last season and landing square on these binoculars, I found that they took the hit just fine. There was no evidence of damage.
The lifetime warranty covers pretty much anything that could happen to them. Send them back to Vortex, and they will either fix them, or they will send out a replacement pair. If you are looking for a quality pair of binoculars at a reasonable price, take a look at Vortex.
I expect you'll be surprised.
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