Binocular Review 2023

[@jamesgbriley4471]

I really like your detailed observations of the products you review! What was sold on swor’s whin a friend of mine said look at the deer on the opposite hill side under the trees! I said no. I don’t see anything over there! I was using Nicon binoculars! Unbelievable difference so I now own them!

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@boristahmasian1644]

Fantastic review. You put a lot of time into this review and it is much appreciated. I own a Athlon Midas 12x50 G2 UHD and totally happy with it. The Swaro is the best no doubt. OTD, they cost around $3,500. I paid $350 OTD for my Midas 12x50. I compared them side-by-side and Swaro won but not by a big margin. For a recreational user such as myself, the 10x difference in price is significant. I am a pro photographer and know good glass when I see it. Man, I wish I had your budget because those Swaros are a work of art!

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@keatonkrantz7626]

I have nl-pure 12x42 and the aziak bino clamp. Killer of a combo. Don't even notice the aziak clamp is there until it's time to put it on a tripod! And for 35 bucks! That bino clamp can't be beaten. Also I got the Nl-pure on Facebook market place for $2500.... and still have the warranty. That's the only reason I could afford them! Definitely recommend buying them second hand! The used market is full of golden nuggets like that! Also thanks to Jay for the best gear review channel on KZbin.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks brother!

[@tomasfarr3446]

Excellent review mate. I honestly base all my purchases off these type of reviews. So in depth mate which not alot of people do. Keep up the excellent work.

[@mmulvill]

That was a great review. This is obviously well thought out, and I am appreciative of the time and energy it took to compile this review. Love your advice to socialize with other hobbyists. (No offense for calling hunting a hobby) I've only recently gotten into birding, but the local community has been extremely welcoming and helpful. Also, don't be afraid to stalk a trusted website for deals and demos. Thanks again.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks man! Appreciate the feedback.

[@charltonlwalker]

Very thorough review and I appreciate the time you took on this. Just placed an order for Zeiss Conquest 10x42s.

[@MindfulHunter]

Awesome. Let me know your thoughts!

[@oronk60]

I like this class system a lot. Since I live in Tasmania, weather resistance is a massive factor when I purchase equipment since Tassie is pretty much a massive rainforest.

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@oronk60]

​@@MindfulHunterHey mate, what do you think about monoculars? Do you think they're a viable option for hunting?

[@mmulvill]

Your reviews are so thorough and well thought out that I find myself watching again. Sorry to nitpick, but my Leica Noctivids say that they're made in Germany. Also, I had a chance to use a pair of Nikon Monarch HG's and think that they would do well on your comparison. Enjoyed your thoughts on the Zeiss SFL's because sometimes when I travel, I don't want to think about replacing the Noctivids. Thanks again. GODSPEED. (Always wanted to say that.)

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@swiftusmaximus5651]

Yeah all Leica compact binos, trinovids and all Geovids are made in Portugal . The full size ultravids and Noctovids are made in Das Fatherland

[@adnanal-harbi5927]

great work. so details and i want to ask if i can apply the same learning for 8X42. How different it is ?

[@MindfulHunter]

I’d think that’s fair. For the most part the results would be transferable.

[@Latitude2010]

Honestly, I have heard many reviews but not as clear as explicit as detailed with facts and numbers very positive very balanced and very neutral even if I am a Swarovski persone indeed. excellent review I have listened to all of it and even read other comments and I totally agree. Thanks for so much information and so useful, just to mention that do I own one. Swarovski NL 12X42

[@MindfulHunter]

Deeply appreciate it!

[@mtntomtn]

Solid review Jay. Thanks for putting in the time to create such detailed overviews for those of us contemplating new glass!

[@MindfulHunter]

My pleasure! Appreciate the support!

[@dagging3122]

Man, this channel is the best I have found, I'm going down the rabbit hole of tossing up between the NL Pure and the EL Range TA- they both have their upsides. Hard to get the NLs in hand in New Zealand. Thanks for all the effort you put in Jay, makes it super handy before buying. Have had dramas with companies not honouring warranties lately (namely a big name boot manufacturer) so knowing that Swaro are happy to help is a bonus. Look forward to the next review- be interested to see you doing a tripod one with the new Aziak Tripod coming out and comparing that to the New Zealand company BACKLANZ tripod. Cheers

[@MindfulHunter]

I have the Aziak tripod and review is incoming 🙌

[@eazybrah]

What would be your choice for spotting long range shooting at steel (out to 850 yards) mounted to a tripod? I was looking at the Maven B5 18x56 with mil reticle or the Swarovski SLC 15x56 (which are 40% more $).

[@MindfulHunter]

What’s the application? Are you actually trying to acquire targets or are you just looking to identify point of impact? Because it would change whether I wanted a spotting scope or a pair of binoculars. In either case under 1000 yards I think you could get away with value based option and don’t need to go all the way up to Alpha glass. I was just on a goat hunt and we were spotting goats at 4 miles away quite easily with a pair of 15 power Sig binos

[@eazybrah]

​@MindfulHunter the application would just be calling hits or misses on steel targets (and ideally where the hit or miss was), not needing to identify targets like in hunting.

[@DavidMaciasPhoto]

Hi Jay, have you or any of your viewers have had experience with the GPO Passion HD’s? They are German made and seem really solid, what do you think? Thanks.

[@MindfulHunter]

I have not. And be careful. Those are not made in Germany. They are designed in Germany and made in either Japan or China.

[@henryware9440]

Excellent review. BTW, the more I analyze and compare the Lecia Trinovid HD (and I own one) the more the value jumps out at me. They just flat-out work for $900.00. Yes, the Noctivid gives a more startling, crisp, bright image, but enough to matter? Barely, if at all. My .02 worth. I have a pair of NL Pure 8 x 42s on the way for comparison....

[@MindfulHunter]

Great point. I just ran the Zeiss SFL 10’s on a mule deer hunt and yes they’re not my NL’s but I was very pleased with the performance. The more glass I run the more I think there is to be said for that mid market glass.

[@dylanadams8624]

What are your thoughts between the Zeiss Victory SF vs Swarovski NL Pures?

[@MindfulHunter]

NL pure all day. Love the colour profile of Zeiss but you can’t beat the fov and resolution on the NL’s

[@nathanfriesen3027]

Hey Jay. Awesome videos trying your best to be objective. I have been looking at kowa binoculars and am wondering if you have any experience with anything kowa besides the spotting scopes. Take care keep up the videos.

[@MindfulHunter]

Current kowa binos are pretty sub-par. Apparently there’s some new ones on the way. Likely not until next year though

[@geoffreymadderson4664]

Thank you for an excellent review. The depth and attention to detail was refreshing! Owning several Leica,Swarovski and Zeiss premium binoculars I can agree the the NL range is the best premium offering. I also have a conquest and would recommend these as the best pair for budget sensitive or persons looking for very good optical performance, robustness and for only 1k in my view they are unbeatable.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks!

[@reigenjensen9830]

Rocking NL Pure 12x42's. Awesome review! "Praying to a variety of Gods" gave me a good laugh!

[@MindfulHunter]

🤣💪

[@johnhardy9935]

New to the channel. Great reviews! When I say you know how to break things down to common sense and educate. You did that. Thank you. Solute👍🏾

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@deepakkapur7333]

A very informative broadcast. It has helped to navigate through the several technicalities, and make an informed choice. Particularly thankful because recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. and making, and my tremors are problematic.

[@MindfulHunter]

Glad it was helpful! Appreciate the feedback.

[@stephens208]

Dude THANK YOU! I’ve been rocking Swaro SLC 10x42 for a very long time and bought my wife the Zeiss Conquest HD so it’s awesome to hear the Conquest rank so high. Question would you replace my old 2015 SLC with the NL pure or keep them?

[@MindfulHunter]

The NL’s will be a significant improvement. If you got the budget do it. If not those SLC’s are still a very nice piece of glass.

[@lukeclement1981]

Great review… totally agree $500 and up is where you want to be. Swarovski is a 368 billon dollar company they should be the best. Most feel they are. $500 for binos isnt bad. Fortunately you get alot for $500 now days. I’ve got Leica 3200’s and Swarovski EL range 10x42 Swarovski 95mm spotter and ZCO scopes. Also picked up a pair of leupold BX4 10x42 off the prize table and they are pretty good at $600 back then I think they are cheaper now. Like I said You can get a-lot if performance for $500 My hunting boots were $400 kennetrack can’t beat them. Had them for years low them and I’ll buy another when these wear out.

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@golfnolsen]

Yes! Love how you put the emphasis on practicality and usability. I live in Canada and face the reality of purchasing online for quality equipment. Great review. Great ranking system. Also, thanks for the depth of field explanation. This element has become one of my main requirements for my next purchase. Finally someone included it in the review. 👍👍

[@MindfulHunter]

My pleasure. Appreciate the detailed feedback!

[@Adventure-MTB]

Question here , i have been birding for a long time 15 years and use alpha binos , and have been all over the world to get my life list up , and if Kowa has some of the best glass then why have i never seen anyone with a pair of Kowa Binos ? Thanks

[@MindfulHunter]

I spoke with kowa about this exact issue a few weeks ago at a trade show. They have always outsourced their bino manufacturing. It doesn’t even use the same glass. Let’s just say I wouldn’t be surprised to see a new line of fluorite crystal Binos in the next couple years.

[@davidlupke8018]

@@MindfulHunter, I’ve had the same question. Kowa scopes are legendary among birders. Even among the Swarovski, Leica, and Zeiss representatives, Kowa Spotting Scopes are considered Alpha glass, but the binoculars are generally considered midrange. Would love to see Kowa join the Alpha glass club in binoculars.

[@wpnmstrmk4484]

From everything that I have researched, which is a lot, Swarovski slc 15x56 are the best for low light which is what you need for hunting. I have never owned Swaro's but I have had several different Zeiss Binoculars, and the last pair I had were 10x32 Conquest HD'S, and then I purchased a pair of Steiner 8x42 HX Binoculars and they are so good that I sold the Zeiss. Granted, they are a little larger diameter but the glass is pretty equal, but the thing that makes the Steiner better to me is the eye cups. When you look through them the outside light does not enter, and this makes a huge difference and I don't see eye cups on any of the other top Binoculars, which makes no sense to me.

[@MindfulHunter]

Couple things. Carrying a pair of 15’s as your primary binos is never gonna happen for the majority of hunters. They are simply too big and you can’t hand hold them. Secondly, there is a 30% difference in the objective size between your conquests and your Steiners. That’s like comparing a 65 mm spotter to an 85 mm spotter. They are optics in completely different categories. And as for your eyecups, the reason most manufacturers, don’t add those is that in order to receive the largest field of view possible, your eyes should actually be set back a few centimetres from the eye cups. However, if you wish to block out all the light, I suggest you look up a product called a bino bandit.

[@wpnmstrmk4484]

You do know that they also make a 10x56 if you are worried about hand holding them steadily?. And yes they are bigger and heavier, but the majority of Hunters and professional guides I have talked to prefer them.

[@wpnmstrmk4484]

The only reason that I don't own 15x56 slc is that I am a Photographer and choose to put my $2,500.00 on Camera equipment instead, but still may purchase later. We can argue on here forever, but when you say best, that means best, no excuses and I know that the 15x56 slc's are the best. Hunters have found Game with these where their partners could not even see what they were looking at with the smaller Binoculars. Some carry a Monopod to keep steady with. Still don't believe?, look at the reviews of people that have owned damn near every Binocular made and they will say these are the best, all categories aside, like best for the money, or best for carry. @@MindfulHunter

[@CapBaileyASMR]

awesome video. Very well done.

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@caseykayl9110]

Another great one Jay! Swaro EL 8.5x42 for the Aziak. Appreciate it!

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks man!

[@chrisfavorin1107]

Im lucky that I live 30 min from Hummelstown Pa where Tract has a warehouse. I contacted Jon and will be making an appointment with the company to get down to the warehouse and give the binos a "drive" before I buy. Also they offer a great VET discount!

[@MindfulHunter]

Great guys. Say hi to Jon for me.

[@azdp5331]

I appreciate the time and planning you put into this review. You obviously put a lot of thought into this. Adding your personal thoughts and opinions, much of it from your notes, added some insight that most reviews don't contain. For years I've mostly used Canon 12x36 IS binoculars which were purchased for astronomy use, and very useful. When I realized I would benefit from a wider field for terrestrial use I bought a pair of Athlon Midas 8x42's and enjoyed using them. Then I decided to try an upgrade and bought a pair of Vortex Viper HD 8x42's and noticed an improvement in contrast, shadow detail and overall comfort on the eyes. With that experience I thought an upgrade to the Razor HD might be worth it (on sale) so I have now just received that pair but have yet to use them. My main use is searching for wildlife to photograph, both larger animals like deer as well as birds. The Razors will likely do everything well enough to keep me happy but if I decide on another upgrade it will likely be the Swaro EL's. I look forward to seeing more of your reviews.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks!

[@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595]

So just off the top of your head, how was the view of the Leica Noctivid vs the Zeiss Victory SF you own?

[@MindfulHunter]

My personal preference for optical quality alone, and colour profile has always been Zeiss. My eyes like them even better than swaro. That being said, I don’t think there is a difference in technical performance between the two. It all comes down to personal preference at that level of optic. But for me, I go to Zeiss sf’s every day.

[@GM-bq6zo]

​@@MindfulHunterdo u prefer 10x42 SF's over 10x42 nl pure?

[@DatMammut76]

Damn these reviews are top notch. I have a pretty wide selection of binos, EL, Mavens and some vortex. Everything has their place. My ELs are my go to, but Mavens are what I grab for things outside glassing game. Vortex are cheap enough I can toss them in glove boxes and spare bags and keep spares for buddies. Being emotionally attached to a brand trips a lot of people up. Good job bringing people some objective information, sir.

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@Elkmonger]

I'm so lucky to live a few miles from EuroOptics. A place where you can visit and experience $100,000 worth of scopes and binoculars next to each other. Take them outside at sunset and look at stuff across the street or 1200 yards up on the mountain side. And when you do this you sometimes are really let down by some of the high dollar stuff.

[@MindfulHunter]

I wish man!

[@mysterioanonymous3206]

The swaro are super nice and I really like the ergonomics, the slim feel they have. What I don't like is obv the price but also the weight. I ended up buying the Zeiss SFL 8x40s, mostly for the low light capability but also the super light weight. They're still pricey but not quite like the Swaro. Shortly after purchasing Swaro came out with the atc 17-40x56 (or so, I think) and it really has me wondering if that could've been a good replacement for the bino/spotting scope combination. Maybe do a video on that sometime... Can a compact spotter replace the other optics? For weight and money that'd be super nice actually. Hope I can get my hands on one sometime...

[@MindfulHunter]

Just did a review of the SFL’s. Fantastic choice.

[@michaelbishop6194]

Great review video. Looking to upgrade from my vortex and this video really helps

[@MindfulHunter]

Glad it was helpful.

[@KevinWood44]

Are the Tract's worth the extra $300 over the Athlons?? (Using them for spotting up to 400 yards)

[@MindfulHunter]

Tracts are only $200 more than Athlons and yes.

[@NetherApparel]

Hey Jay. I'm a new viewer here after stumbling upon your channel. Awesome video, you did an amazing job speaking clearly and making this a fun video to follow along with! Also your logo is fu**ckin awesome!! Keep up the great work man.

[@MindfulHunter]

Appreciate the support and the kind words. Fun fact the antlers in that logo are copied from my AZ muley that you see on the left hand side of my studio.

[@NetherApparel]

@@MindfulHunter That's awesome! Best of luck with everything and I can't wait to check out your upcoming videos🤘

[@WhyitJellyDonut]

The Zeiss Conquest HD's just got replaces by the HDX and so you can get the 10x42 HD's for $700 USD right now brand new.

[@MindfulHunter]

That’s a steal for that glass.

[@watchinggearreviews]

Interested in bino clamp. I have the trinovids. Great detailed review by the way!

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@TrueLineOutdoors]

Great review! Glad you added multiple price options. I hope Maven reaches back out. I’ve had stellar experience with them.

[@MindfulHunter]

I agree. I almost don’t want to throw maven under the bus for actions their PR company took they may not support as well. 🤞

[@stratop3686]

Jay - Love your reviews (refreshing change in the hunting industry), please keep them coming! My opinion- for hunting binos it seems that low light performance should get a heavier weight in scoring? I have Swaro EL 10x42 for the clamp. Thanks again!

[@MindfulHunter]

Agreed. In a way it’s 90% of what you’re paying for when you move from beta to alpha glass. You’re buying yourself 20 more mins of useable daylight.

[@CD02]

Another excellent review. I’d have sent you the Tracts, which I have and like quite a bit for the price point. I now have the Leica Geovid LRF binos, which are probably one version behind, but you’re welcome to borrow if you do an LRF bino review Jay.

[@MindfulHunter]

Appreciate that man!

[@andrzejtaramina2709]

Been waiting for this one with bated breath! Will watch it this evening. Already got my raffle tickets.

[@MindfulHunter]

Looking forward to your feedback! And good luck!

[@user-if2ke9hi6w]

I got myself some conquest HD 10x42's and they are crazy sharp and bright. But my favorite thing is how easy the eyebox is on those binos. Leica ultravids, NL pures and appartently the zeiss sf's in the 32mm have serious eyebox issues which give you blackouts all the time unless perfectly aligned or used on a tripod. A trade off in eyepiece design for those large flat fields. As a hunting binocular I'd find that incredibly annoying. The meopta meostars are basically equally good to the swaro slc's they are so good and in my opinion much more ruggedly built...but heavy. Your reviews might save me a few grand on a spotting scope so thank you!

[@MindfulHunter]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ericvail9543]

Thanks Jay, much appreciated. Cant wait for the raffle. Fingers crossed. John Allen from tract is awesome!

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@weekendwarrior8334]

Speaking of Aziak…..the new Aziak Front Country Lite tripod with the Wiser Precision Nighthawk is the perfect glassing setup. If you take off the wider base of the tripod what’s underneath is a almost perfect match for the base of the Nighthawk.

[@MindfulHunter]

Just got the front country. Looking forward to testing it oit

[@GlassHalfFullOutdoors]

Another Top-Notch Review from Jay. Quality nonbiased and unsponsored content brother 🤙

[@MindfulHunter]

That’s how we roll!

[@tuduvu]

I went to the local camera store twice, compared the Conquest HD, Trinovid and (out of my budget) the Swarovski NL Pure, the last one just because it was there. Settled for the Conquest 10x42HD. What helped was the €200 cashback, so instead of €1145 they do cost me €945 (No dollars for me, I live in the Netherlands). However, once at home after unpacking the binoculairs, I fiddled with the right eyecup. I do not use glasses, so I need to turn them all the way up. The right eyecup would not click into a higher position, and unscrewed a little. Only after a little effort it clicked out. I turned it in and out all the way a dozen times, fastened the thread again with the cup in the lowest position, and now it clicks smoothly up and down. No difference between the left and right now. The demo model did not have the eye-cup stuck, I checked that because of the horror-stories on the internet. Had me worried a bit, but it's OK now.

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@codymitchell1639]

Have you looked at the vortex razor uhd yet? Would love a real unbiased review on it. Keep doing what you're doing appreciate it.

[@MindfulHunter]

I’ll try to get my hands on some

[@larrydunn4626]

nice review. Suggestion -- some of us don't hunt, and don't glass at all at first or last light. If I'm looking off my balcony into the distance at a hillside, or lake, or ocean, for pleasure, I do it in good lighting. So .. would be good if you rank the quality of the view into two categories... ordinary lighting, and low lighting. I don't want to pay for low light performance, since it doesn't matter to me. I only want to know optical performance in ordinary light.

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@mjc_208]

Thanks for the honest and helpful information you provide!

[@MindfulHunter]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mrmaxaxl]

Great video! Btw: have you tried the new(ish) Zeiss SFL's? I have the 8x40 version and LOVE them! So lightweight compared to say Swarovski EL 8.5x42. Much easier to handhold. Also great contrast and clarity.

[@MindfulHunter]

No I likely need to do a small bino review.

[@GM-bq6zo]

Is the position of the focus wheel OK? It looks low down like u have to hold the ends of the SFL's?

[@Eric-bh7jy]

I wonder where the vortex Razor HD/UHD match up in this line up? Hard to beat the warranty when you can’t afford to fix $3000 binos that fall out of your harness and hit a rock.

[@MindfulHunter]

Vortex are the last Binos on earth I’d buy. Tract, Maven, Sig and Leupold all have the same warranty and all have better options.

[@Eric-bh7jy]

@@MindfulHunter of the ones you listed, which ones would you lean towards? I have only owned the viper HDs and I’m looking to upgrade now that my son is old enough to hunt. Thanks for the suggestion. So far I live my K4 and Aziak tripod you recommended

[@MindfulHunter]

@@Eric-bh7jy I think the Tract Toric UHD 10x42 would be the best bang for your buck and still be under $1k

[@paulcorrigan7999]

I own a pair of Athlon Argos binos-truly awesome optics for

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@taylorblanchette8861]

Another great review. I have a pair of maven B2 9x45. I think they are awesome for the price and I'd love to give the aziak adapter a try

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@tobymatkowski]

Another great effort Jay! Keep em coming man.

[@MindfulHunter]

Will do!

[@jorgecarrillo5714]

Can you do Swarovski EL VS NL Pure?

[@MindfulHunter]

NL pure is significantly better. EL is cheaper. Just depends what you wanna spend.

[@oliverallen5324]

Enjoy the long form content. Is it possible to interweave some of the video of your experience? Some examples would help illustrate the ideas you're proposing. Also reminding us the audience of what all this is for, which is getting out and going on an adventure, is something I'd like. Looking forward to your next one.

[@MindfulHunter]

It’s fair feedback. To be totally honest I’m leaving on vacation and was under the gun to get this video edited so kept it pretty simple. I can definitely work on including more b-roll in future videos. It’s definitely something I know a lot of people want to see more of.

[@DR4Christ]

Thank you for the ranking system - it helps a lot. Liked your Zeiss comments - hope they improve those eye cups. Question: what binos would fit better for those who wear glasses? Does one stand out more than another in this category?

[@MindfulHunter]

You want to look for the ones with the greatest eye relief. Also some binos will specifically mention unscrewing the eyecups to work better for people with eyeglasses. I’ll try to do some research and work that info in to future reviews.

[@jasonfox8020]

What an exceptional video. I wish you would send me the NL Pures to field test to see if that is the best Bino for me.

[@MindfulHunter]

Wish I had lots to send out.

[@keefer041]

I run Vortex right now. But looking to upgrade. Great review!

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@GM-bq6zo]

I wish the top optics companies would do a porro. If swaro improved the field of view in the habicht and the focus wheel they'd probably be unbeatable. And, they would sell a lot of them if they could keep them a similar price.

[@MindfulHunter]

It’s an interesting point. I’d love to get some of the manufacturers on the podcast.

[@GM-bq6zo]

@@MindfulHunter I know they're not really as fashionable as a nice roof, but there are a lot of people who want the best optics, and porros can deliver that. Also at the other end of the market people could get some good porro optics without spending over 2k. A nice 8x40 or 10x40 with around 96% light transmission like the habicht, but better fov and focus wheel would be amazing.

[@jeffreyfoster2804]

I have NL Pure and they are great in all aspects!

[@MindfulHunter]

💯

[@mikerobinson6606]

All my local (Mid-Michigan) shops carry and push Vortex stuff. None carry Ultra high-end gear, mainly because it just wouldn't sell very well. Not many places we can go put hands on quality glass.

[@MindfulHunter]

I feel ya. Super tough here in Canada to put your hands on premium gear. Things like tents are impossible.

[@mikerobinson6606]

​@MindfulHunter oh yes, top notch camping gear is internet order only. These reviews are essential for long range adventure hunters. I can't even begin to calculate all the money reviews like yours has saved me.

[@MindfulHunter]

@@mikerobinson6606 Love hearing that man. That is 100% why I started this. Couldn't find any good footage of big guys inside tents to judge space lol.

[@chadpeebles3617]

You say the athlon are porro prism but they are bak4 roof prism from all i can find. Ive never seen a straight tube bino that had porro prisms.

[@MindfulHunter]

You are correct the athlons are clearly roof prisms. That’s a mistake on my part.

[@francisfrancis4219]

Damn fool.

[@curtismcmullen6702]

Nice review. I'm currently using maven b.2's but definitely will be swaro next

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@henryware9440]

But the Tract does not have the same number of Schott HT lenses as Zeiss---or the Noctivid for that matter, which has 8 Schott HT lenses in each barrel. I suspect the Tract only has one HT lense in each barrel which is consistent with the low price.

[@MindfulHunter]

They also don’t use the same coatings. What’s your point? I only said they use the same glass.

[@edvanek8244]

What a great review! Thank you!

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@Justanoutdoorsguy]

I’ve done quite a bit of research on the matter and often find it very difficult to find this on manufacturers websites from time to time. But I suspect that the noctovids and the nl pures are both abbe koenig prisms due to the longer and heavier frames and price. This style of roof prism allows more light through due to the construction. While the other roof prisms are Schmidt-pechan which are lighter and more compact. I’m a gear geek and I love the content!

[@MindfulHunter]

Sounds reasonable to me. Appreciate the insight. I wish there was a standardized way manufacturers shared product details like this.

[@Justanoutdoorsguy]

@@MindfulHunter it’s very strange frankly. Optics are one of the few products that is very difficult to find the hard data of what these products are made of and what makes them 500 vs 3000. It took a long time to figure out those details about the abbe koenig prism. And just why wouldn’t they share that? It’s not like its proprietary. A manufacturer is going to look at a competitors Binoculars and be pretty certain they are using this or that prism.

[@huntguy454nation4]

I must be weird because I looked through Leica and they were blurry/dusty at 700 yards +. Whereas the swaros were incredibly better it was like pulling the views closer to you, almost as if there wasn't Binos in the way. I tried zeiss too and they were blurry. Only swaro is clear

[@MindfulHunter]

If any pair of binoculars is ever blurry, then it’s either a manufacturer defect or you haven’t adjusted the diopter correctly.

[@cbuck5165]

I watched up to the point where I learned that ,"if you can't find $500 to buy a pair of binoculars maybe you should find another sport." I will come finish the video after I get done selling all my hunting gear.

[@MindfulHunter]

Sounds good 👍

[@chetmaschke3579]

😂

[@kevinbernstein835]

People have hunted without Binoculars or Scopes for thousands of years. The better hunter does not need fancy equipment. The Mackinaw Coat is still superior to a down puffy.

[@DatMammut76]

Cry harder.

[@lukeclement1981]

$500 for binos isnt bad. Fortunately you get alot for $500 now days. I’ve got Leica 3200’s and Swarovski EL range 10x42 Swarovski 95mm spotter and ZCO scopes. Also picked up a pair of leupold BX4 10x42 off the prize table and they are pretty good at $600 back then I think they are cheaper now. Like I said You can get a-lot if performance for $500 My hunting boots were $400 kennetrack can’t beat them. Had them for years

[@TheTrailDancer]

Great vid... :) I would love to see a GPO reviewed..

[@MindfulHunter]

I just found out about them a few weeks ago. I’ll try and get my hands on some.

[@hunterward5601]

Great video! I use the Zeiss conquests.

[@MindfulHunter]

I can verify that 🤣

[@hunterward5601]

@@MindfulHunter I’m just trying to get me one of them bino clamps!😂

[@GH0ST369]

Appriceate the oragin aspect, it also allows consumers to support countries that align with our personal view points.

[@MindfulHunter]

Definitely a good bonus.

[@Bouncing22]

You are very good at what you do.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thank you very much man. I love it.

[@tcrypto85]

Great review. Not sure if it makes a difference in your review but Portugal is a western European country.

[@MindfulHunter]

Appreciate the clarification.

[@henryware9440]

Correct: the Trinovids do not use HT glass, but they claim it is an ELD (extra-low dispersion) glass nonetheless and possibly Schott HD glass as you insightfully observe. I have all but begged Lecia to tell us what glass they are using in the Trinovid HD and they won't (been on the phone with them several times). The Ultravid HDs use Schott HT prisms which contain Flouride, but no other Schott lenses and they give a slightly sharper, crisper, brighter image than the Trinovid HDs, but barely, so that would be consistent with the Ultravid's using Schott HT prisms. I do know the Trinovids use Bak-4 prisms. The Kowa Genesis has one (1) Flouride lens element in each barrel and image quality is virtually identical to the Trinovid HD, in my opinion. Also, the GPO HD has two fluoride lenses cemented together in each barrel and they are ever so slightly sharper than the Trinovid HD (very, very little difference). I believe the Noctivid has 8 Schott HT lenses in each barrel and probably Schott HT prisms too.

[@MindfulHunter]

Precisely. And neither eld or hd is HT. again, what is your point?

[@henryware9440]

Nothing. No criticism intended at all, just commenting and trying to deduce the Trinovid secret sauce and essentially, I am agreeing with your deduction about the probable lens material in the Trinovid HDs. It makes sense.

[@MindfulHunter]

@@henryware9440 my bad. Misunderstood. I appreciate the additional info. I wish there was more transparency in the optics industry. It makes it really hard to do objective reviews.

[@henryware9440]

No worries at all. No offense taken. It was an excellent review and I really appreciate the time and effort you put into it. I thought your analysis and opinions were very credible and objective. I agree with you about transparency. It would be nice if they would be more willing to give us more information on the components they use. Sometimes you really have to scratch for it. Leica will give out info on the Ultravid HDs and the Noctivids (8 Schott HT lenses, for example) but guard the Trinovid HD lense composition like its top-secret. I don't understand it.

[@jakedaley3511]

Currently running the Vortex UHD 12x50

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@killickfabrication6810]

I currently run leupold bx4 guides, 8x42, I love the split bridge design. I find the split bridge easier to hold and focus one handed.

[@MindfulHunter]

I really do want to review some more leupold stuff. I run the vx-5hd scope and for the price and weight you can’t beat it.

[@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595]

I’m running a pair of old school Steiner 10x50 👍

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@vancejohnson1778]

Another bad ass review man some great points nd always like the non bias you do nd some sweet glass, im Running vortex diamondback at the moment, hopefully can upgrade in the future 😂 also think its great u are definitely doing it right if they are starting to try nd buy you out lol

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks brother. Appreciate the support as always. And I feel ya. Diamondbacks were in my bino harness for quite some time too.

[@fx4fxnytro]

A very extensive review! Thank you!

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@mrirurfkjsdo]

' if you can't find 500 bucks, go another sport ' !!!! ahaha !!!! Good one, dude ! 🤣 And thx for that really cool vid' and your work here !! PS : Just a little regret here... the SFL should have had a place !

[@MindfulHunter]

Just dropped a new video on the SFL. Couldn’t get them in time for this video. Excellent option.

[@mrirurfkjsdo]

@@MindfulHunter Thx ! 😉 Yes, I saw that afterwards ! Their weight is impressively light !

[@EthanPageHunter]

If I could clarify what for folks what I think you mean regarding to sub $500 optics. I am a not wealthy at all so this is honest. If you are dumping money into your truck, bow, Gucci camouflage and all this other bs but can’t sink money into hood glass…. You’re priorities are a little convoluted. Glass is one place you should buy the best you can possibly afford. You can kill elk day in and day out with a pawn shop Mathews Q2 compound. But if you can’t see them to kill then with your $2k bow. You’ve chose wrong. I think I’m still with you 🤙🏼

[@MindfulHunter]

Yeah man you nailed it. Most people spend more on Starbucks in a few months. If you say you love something put your money where your mouth is.

[@EthanPageHunter]

@@MindfulHunter Starbucks.. man now you’re just coming out with sniper shots lol

[@darrind8697]

Great review as always . I run the Leupold Mojave pro guide hd 8x42 so not top tier lol .

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@davecody5997]

Great review bro ....nl pures....i wish!!😊

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@kobymaher8781]

I have the trinovids. They suit me fine.

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@kobymaher8781]

@@MindfulHunter but i wouldnt mind a pair of NL Pures😂

[@clarencemaximum8553]

The Swarovski EL 10x42 is a great bargain

[@MindfulHunter]

💯

[@NoMercy4You2]

Vortex HD here looking for review of higher end glass

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@johnnyroese]

Great review

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@dereklaub4683]

Another very thorough and unbiased review. Thanks for calling out companies with their slick marketing tactics and acknowledging good companies that are genuine and ethical. Been using a pair of Cabelas Alaskan Guide 10x42 binos from the bargain cave for about 15 years now. Time to upgrade so thanks again for the review.

[@MindfulHunter]

Are those the ones Meopta made for Cabelas? And thank you man for the support and feedback. Lots more content on the way.

[@dereklaub4683]

No they are the black ones. Made in Japan. Not sure who made them.

[@zackw9292]

Completely off topic, but I thought it was hilarious that youtube inserted an advertisement for ASPCA into your video. They must think that you’re really into birding!!!! 😂😂😂

[@MindfulHunter]

Hahaha gotta love the power of the algorithms!

[@zackw9292]

Also- I think you must’ve gotten an outlier as far as conquest eyecups. I know that people had troubles with the old ones, but the newer ones (especially with the longer eyecups (available for free from Zeiss)) work great. Mine adjust very precisely and lock into place without much hassle. Occasionally they’ll start to unscrew themselves, but I just crank them back down and adjust the cups as necessary.

[@MindfulHunter]

@@zackw9292 “occasionally they start to unscrew themselves” I don’t consider that precise or acceptable. I have never had another pair of binos do that. Not even cheap shitty ones. Just my opinion. And I’ve had two pairs of conquests and the eyecups were identical.

[@zackw9292]

Oh well, it doesn’t happen often enough to bother me. Until I can afford the top shelf stuff, the conquests are the best I found in that mid-tier range.

[@terrymace5498]

Argon gas is heavier then nitrogen gas. That's probably why the higher end use nitrogen gas

[@MindfulHunter]

🙌

[@jasonlaurain5119]

Sub $500? Nikon Monarch series are excellent especially M5 & M7.

[@MindfulHunter]

Good to know.

[@DrLuigiPhd]

Any reason the best doesn't get the most points? Otherwise I love the forced ranking system

[@MindfulHunter]

Just liked the idea of first place getting one point I guess. ;)

[@JoshHardin-yq6uk]

NL Pure 10x42!

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@Malfin3]

Zeiss SFL 10x40

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@Evan-rv9ox]

I think the Cannon gyro stabilized Binos are severely underrated for hunting.

[@MindfulHunter]

I need to do some research on stabilized binos

[@kevinbernstein835]

Those Canons are the best binos period I have used in them in the salt water fishing environment for years.

[@jessewostenberg6482]

It's seems like stabilized binoculars are working thoer way into the hunting world. Sig Zulu6 being the newest. I definitely think there is an application for them for higher powered binos as well as single had use with a bow.

[@MrRottman43055]

At 14 minutes in, anyone who can't find at least $500 for a set of binoculars should find another sport. Wow.

[@MindfulHunter]

🤷🏼‍♂️

[@jerryjoseph9135]

"If you can't afford $500 binoculars, choose another sport" -MINDFUL hunter. c'mon man. try not to gatekeep hunting, and you are wrong here.

[@rcb2000]

I killed lots of animals with $175 Vortex’s before I could afford better, the animals didn’t seem to care what I had.

[@MindfulHunter]

I’m wrong all the time.

[@MindfulHunter]

Same.