Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Optics Vortex Viper HD 12x50 Binocular

I bought a Viper 12x50 for less than $500 , It is excellent clear and sharp Binocular , I am a beginner , just wondering why would anyone buy 8X or 10X for the same price.

P.

It depends on the area. 12X or even 10X in wooded areas will become cluttered. Also, 12X and higher will magnify any hand shake. 10X seems to be the best comprimise for stability and magnification for open terrain. In the woods (like PA) I use 6.5X and really like the wide FOV. Different strokes...

At 15mm they don't have enough eye relief for glasses wearers. The 10x50 have 19.5. I find 18mm the minimum for wearing my glasses.

Both gentleman above make excellent points. I'll also throw size of the bino into the mix.

It really depends on how it'll be used - for me, a 12x50 is more a specialized unit that I'd probably want a tripod for extended glassing sessions and not for a general walk-around bino.
If it's being used to have a quick look at something off the back deck or from a vehicle, it'll be great for that application. OMMV.

I've just recently come to the conclusion that a fella shouldn't limit themselves to strictly 1 pair of binos for all situations. I'm beginning to think/realize they make these in various power and sizes for a Very Good reason! Lol. I just ordered a 10x42 and plan to get something smaller for timber hunting in the very near future. Also, spotters come into play at a certain point too. Ultimately, im trying to prep for my 1st hunting trip out west and want to be properly equipped when all said and done.

There are times when hunting in dense woods where 8X is about perfect. 12X is something I would use on a tripod for extended searching of one area. 8X is something used to carry around. 10X is well, I don't know. I have one, but don't use it anymore so I guess I should sell it.