Maven Binoculars Review: Complete B & C Series Comparisons

[@targettamers]

To access all of the written reviews for these Maven binoculars, visit our website - www.targettamers.com/maven-built/

[@jerrymayo4571]

it is such a pleasure to watch your videos, your style, your appearance, fluidity, exacting information, all of it - combines to make your site top-notch. Many other sites would do well to follow your lead. It is also very relaxing watching and listening. Thank you for all your effort ..... it clearly shows

[@targettamers]

Wow, thank you!

[@opponoastos]

I like the specs on the b.5 10x56. Good FOV, brightness, and LT%.

[@commonsense5709]

Is yours made in CHINA?

[@opponoastos]

@@commonsense5709 No. Made in the USA. Has Japanese components. See the Maven Binocular Comparison Chart (PDF) for more info on that.

[@commonsense5709]

As of June 2023 Maven's website states some of their binoculars are made in CHINA and so are their 15-45x65 spotting scopes made in CHINA and appears to have a kinship to the much cheaper Chinese Athlon Ares UHD G2 version. There needs to be an update to specify which models are made in CHINA.

[@targettamers]

I took a look but can't see where this is stated on the Maven website, can you please link to where you read this so I can update if necessary? Cheers! - Simon BTW. This is the information I found regarding manufacture: 'We use premium Japanese components for S, B, and RS Series optics. The S Series and B Series are assembled in a military standard (MIL-SPEC) facility in San Diego, and are then shipped to our headquarters in Lander, Wyoming where we inspect and test for quality assurance. The RS Series is assembled in Japan, and the C Series are assembled in the Philippines. Once assembled, they are shipped to our headquarters where each batch is sample-tested for quality assurance.' (Source: mavenbuilt.com/pages/faq) You can also see the materials and assembly origins of each product here: www.targettamers.com/maven-built/#maven-binoculars-review based on the products Tina has had actual hands-on experience with.

[@commonsense5709]

Check out their specifications and country of origin and manufacture are listed on the bottom.

[@Mark..P]

Such a thorough and comprehensive review. Really helped me decide which pair to get (B1.2 10x42). Thank you 🙏👏

[@targettamers]

Glad it was helpful! We hope you love them. - Simon

[@willyho2555]

Great review and knowledge ! Wondering your thoughts on picking between the b2s or the b6s for western big game??

[@targettamers]

Hi William, I think they'll perform really similarly, and I don't know that you'd notice a whole lot of difference between them optically. I honestly think the deciding factor is going to be either the larger apertures of the B6 for more lowlight oomph (though I don't know that it's going to be significantly noticed also with the extra 1x power) VS the wider FOV of the B2s which is a big difference. You honestly won't go wrong with either one. For the noticeably wider FOV, the B2s would be great though. Thanks for the comment. - Tina

[@willyho2555]

@@targettamers Thanks Tina! and I apologize for asking the same question on two different videos!

[@targettamers]

@@willyho2555 Happy to help!

[@Somerandomtileguy]

I'm really hi ginger on the c4 18x56 but I wonder if the quality is up to par

[@Gypsumcreekoutfitters]

I outfit here in colorado for elk bear moose and mule deer. I am torn between the 11x45 binos and the 10x50s. I own the maven spotter and also the 18 x 56 binos. Really looking to upgrade my everyday guide binos and not sure which one to go with. Can you recommend one over the other? Low light and clarity is the most important factors for me.

[@targettamers]

Tim you've asked me a pretty impossible question lol. When it comes to comparable performance regarding lowlight and clarity, I don't think your eye would perceive a significant difference between them - on paper they're practically equal. I think the B2s are ever so slightly sharper with a flatter FOV (credit to the AK prisms) though. I would recommend the B.6 10x50s if you're tag teaming it regularly with the spotter and 18s as well. But if the primary use is as a standalone as your daily pair, so spotter and 18s are usually elsewhere (home), I'd recommend the B2s. I'm torn too, but I hope that helped at least a little bit! Tina

[@eric224]

Hi from Montreal, Not an hunter just a Guy who like to watch nature: just make a crazy move: I Bought from Maven the B1 675$ in special (900$)....... a big guess..... hope I will like them a lot!.. Eye Relief is 18.5mm what I need with Glasses and can operate at -13F with is important for me in Montreal...... Cheers.

[@targettamers]

I hope you enjoy them! I am shivering just thinking about -13F!

[@aviationworld8939]

Wonderful review I totally enjoy your video's keep them coming. I'm a total Maven fanatic and I have the Maven C1 10x42 and B2 11x45 I love them both. My next one is going to be B5 18x56. cheers

[@targettamers]

Thanks for your kind feedback! We have a review of the B5 15x56 coming in a few weeks. Keep an eye out for it!

[@archstanton9703]

How do the Maven B5 18x56 compare to the Vortex Razor UHD 18x56? Thank you for the thorough explanation of the Maven binoculars!

[@targettamers]

Yikes that 's a tough question. One reason is because I haven't yet had the chance to handle the Vortex Razor UHD model myself. Secondly, on paper the two are very, very competitive when it comes down to the specs. Given how strikingly similar they are, real comparisons can only be determined via hands-on testing, and it looks like you will need to allow a bit of personal preference to help shape which one is preferred. Warranties, made in Japan, AK prism & mag. chassis, the specs - almost identical. The optics? Vortex seemingly adds more to the "optical resume", but again, looking through both might help to see if the eye can make out the differences to rank the Razor on top. The B.5 is cheaper than the Razor. For now, that might be the only standout comparison. These are my just my thoughts. Thanks for the feedback Arch! - Tina

[@archstanton9703]

@@targettamers The Vortex Razor UHD uses APO and the Maven B5?uses fluorite glass in their objective lenses. I’ve looked through the Razor UHD inside Sportsman’s but it’s hard to make an opinion without using them outside on a tripod. I found a deal on the Razor UHD that is a little less than the B5’s. Thank you for the reply, Tina. Have a great weekend!

[@Jettemaus2]

I own the B5 in 18x56 and I am very impressed with the image quality. I am in the market for a 9 to 10 power set of binos. Do you feel there is noticeable image color and clarity between the B5 10x56 with fluorite glass and the B2 9×45 without the fluorite? I like the value of the B2s but don't want to be disappointed when I compare them to the image I see in the B5s. Thank you.

[@targettamers]

Being completely transparent, I haven't handled the B2's yet to tell you if the differences will be noticeable. The B2's do promise to be exceptional, and you may not be disappointed with them if the budget rules. But - since you already know what to expect from the B5's, to split hairs, you may notice even if only in high contrast conditions. Fluorite doublets improve overall contrast while reducing light scatter. It might be worth taking advantage of Maven's Demo Program to check out the B2's before you commit to buying. Hope this helps!

[@Jettemaus2]

@@targettamers Thank you for your honest response. I think I've decided to stick with the B5 option.

[@archstanton9703]

Did up compare the B5 18x56 to the Vortex Razor UHD 18x56 binoculars?

[@ObelixCMM]

I have B.6 12X50 on the way. I was looking at B.2 11X45 and they suggested 12X50 about 2 weeks ago. This was a slip on their web site, as you couldn't see them listed under binoculars. Didn't know about B1.2

[@targettamers]

The B.6 12x50 are a great binocular (we have a video review of those coming), I am sure you will be happy with them. They and the B1.2 only got released a few days ago so you will be one of the first to try them out!

[@outyxt800]

Any update on your B6?

[@targettamers]

@@outyxt800 Hi Steve, here is the full B.6 review - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKucdaRrlpeIZpY

[@tonesmith909]

Hi there! Im looking at some 12x50/56s and cant decide between the B5 and B6s. I hunt in AZ, low light performance and FOV or very important to me. Obviously the B6s are smaller and lighter, but of the two which do you think was better in low light ? And overrall, for hunting in Az, which would you go with?? Thanks!

[@targettamers]

Hi Fab7. The B5 12x56 and B6 12x50 are excellent choices. Since you already addressed weight/compactness of the B6s, and considering they have the same FOV, I think the B5 12x56 will be a champ in low light and will fit your needs. It's certainly a great option for overall hunting in AZ even given the significant terrain difference across the state. I don't think you will go wrong with the B5s over the B6s in this situation. Goodluck! - Tina

[@2musiclover534]

Liked. Fantastic. Wondering about the B3 polycarbonate body - nothing as rigid in material as bolycarb body. Wondering if the alignment will be as good as a magnesium body through the years. Any thoughts? Thanks.

[@targettamers]

I'm no materials engineer but my thoughts are that precision manufacturing will have a lot to do with that. Considering this is Maven, I don't think that there would be any real concerns about the mold, chassis, and additional processes (i.e. deburring of mag frame, etc.), regardless of it being polycarb or magnesium, affecting optical assembly or alignment over the years. If there is an issue, it's a good thing they have a lifetime warranty, right? Thanks for the kind feedback! - Tina

[@kellytaylor3915]

Well done! It would be nice to post a link to their Website to buy from this company. Very informative and great information shared.

[@targettamers]

Thanks for you feedback and for sharing! I have added a link to Maven's binocular collection - alnk.to/cwMN3S3 - great advice!

[@slavkochepasov8134]

would be nice to get review / recommendations on harness for those binoculars. Please.

[@TrueLineOutdoors]

B1.2 vs B2 for image quality?

[@targettamers]

The image quality differences are going to be difficult to spot for the untrained eye. On paper, the B2's win out in image quality strictly because they don't need the extra light transmission 'help' that the B1.2's need due to the different prism design. However, I've personally looked through the B1.2s and am very impressed with sharpness and clarity. There are slim margins between the two especially since the additional specs are very competitive, so I think the determining factors in the end will be the choice of magnification + objective lens size you want and overall weight and size. Hope that helps! - Tina

[@outyxt800]

HI Tina, First of all like to say thanks for your review. I'm a hunter & hunt in close bush and also far out as far as eyes can see. I'm having a really hard time on what power to use & model for that matter. I'd rather just buy once & cry once so hoping you could give me some advice. I'm interested in the B1.2 8-10power, B3 8-10 power or the B6 10power. I would defiantly like the best FOV with best light transmission. I've read tons of reviews some helpful & others not so much. Example was interested in the B1.2 in 10power & read a review guy purchased 2 one for him & his wife. She ended up with the 8power & himself 10power. He mentioned after seeing his wife's 8 power he was super jealous & wish he had gone 8 over 10-power. Is the B1.2 in 8 power superior over the same 10power? Also what overall is a better glass that will give me more light & clearer image. The new B1.2 10 power or B6 10power? Will the B6 be a noticeable difference over the B1.2 or vise versa. Also not to leave the B3 out, how would that compare to the B1.2 & B6. Is it even in the same class? Reason why I ask is I might buy the B3 8 power & then buy a spotting scope. Hope you could take the time to answer these question & like to thank you in advance.

[@targettamers]

Hi Steve! That was a loaded comment lol! I'll get straight to the point. Between the B1.2 8x and 10x binos, the major spec difference is FOV. So maybe the example you read is due to the slightly better handling of an 8x as well as the 1.4-degree gain in FOV. You will not see any difference in optical performance between the two. (Check out my review of the B1.2 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/i5KZl5-Yfq-pm8U) The same will be true of the B.6 line as they incorporate identical optical systems. The only difference is that the B.6 will perform better in twilight conditions. It will be brighter and clearer, so it can give you additional time of better resolving power in low light over the B1.2s but you will sacrifice FOV. (Here is my review of the B.6 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKucdaRrlpeIZpY) Now the B.3s will give you the best advantages in handling due to its compact size, but it's definitely not going to be as bright. You can add a spotter to your gear as you mentioned if you're willing to add the cost of a spotter, weight, and a tripod to your pack to maximize its full potential. Trying to determine as best I can with the needs expressed, stick with either the B1.2 or the B.6 lines. During daylight hours, there is no discernible difference in optical quality between them. They all have very competitive light transmission and clarity. So, it comes down to the widest FOV or more light at lowlight? Wide FOV - B1.2 8x. More light - B.6 10x. Middle ground between the two - B1.2 10x. If you have a CM.1 8x32 (really cheap & awesome!) or RF.1, I would opt for the B.6 line because I can always get the wider FOV and lower power from my compact monocular for when I'm in the timber and need fast use. (Here is my video review of the CM.1 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqWUkqKApLx_ndU). Besides, you can get a range with the RF.1 at the same time - double-duty right? I'd prefer the extended reach and lowlight resolution from my binoculars for the hunt. I hope this helped you to narrow it down! Good luck! - Tina

[@outyxt800]

@@targettamers HI Tina, Thanks for the quick response & answering all my questions. Very thought out reply & really do appreciate it. I like how you said B1.2 8x more FOV - B.6 10x More light - . B1.2 10x Middle ground between the two. That comment definitely gives me a idea how those models compare to one another. I'm liking the B1.2 being in the middle & B6 10x being brighter that for sure. Defiantly eliminating the B1.2 8x. I don't know what I'd rather have, the B1.2 10x with more FOV or the B6 with more light during twilight conditions. Sounds like either one will work for me, really liking the B6. However, I'm thinking maybe the B1.2 10x with more FOV is better option for my needs. Lets be realistic here, when I'm hunting mornings it doesn't take long for it to get bright out so the way I see it the B6 for me only has that what 1 hr advantage besides maybe cloudy conditions. You mentioned once daylight there pretty neck & neck in comparison. Id rather utilize the extra FOV of the B1.2 all day long over B6 if all else is equal. Problem is you prefer the B6 and now that's always in the back of my head lol. I'm really hoping you do a full review of the B3 line. There's defiantly not much info out there and not going to lie, that size really has me searching for info about it. Example, I'm hearing C1 8x & 10X are an amazing binocular for price point. Told its equivalent to say a Viper HD & Nikon Monarch 7. That's 2 VERY nice binoculars to be accompanied by. Don't know how true that statement is but those viper HD are nice and they do have outstanding warranty and best in the industry. So to be mentioned in same class as them is truly impressive. Now to get to my point here, I called someone (no name mentioned) but they told me the B3 8x30 will give more FOV & light not to mention clearer then the C1 8x42. Also the B3 10x30 will also have more FOV plus more light then the C1 10x30. I get it's better glass then the C1 series but find it hard to believe it gathers more light then the C1 line with 30mm lens. Can you chime in and explain this? maybe give me your insight about it. If the C1 has that good of reviews and compared to Viper HD (if true) and the B3 is even better then those what would you compare a B3 too? In your opinion is the B3 better in doing everything over the C1 series? Asking for myself and few friends of mine. Sry for the long right up again ;) 1 last thing to put others to rest is the new B6 12x50 better then the B2 11x45?

[@targettamers]

@@outyxt800 It sounds like you've decided on the extra 21 ft FOV of the B1.2. Honestly - great choice & I highly recommend it! The B2s are different given their AK prism, field-flattening optics, and wider FOV. Looking at the specs, the tight differences will most likely not be discernible without measuring with optical equipment. It may come down to user perception of edge-to-edge clarity in which the B2s may just win. Sorry I can't give you more as I haven't yet tested the B2s! B3 vs C1 - not really a fair comparison as there is a lot more to consider - off the top of my head 1) measurable by equipment vs subjective perception? 2) the 5% difference in light transmission 3) the extra lenses in the B3 eyepieces 4) quality of glass/coatings & processing 5) relative brightness specs are based solely on the size of the magnification & objective lenses. The B3s have higher light transmission that is discernible, and given that the B series is made with high-end quality vs the mid-range quality of the C series, it is a good example to not judge a bino's brightness solely by its size. Though the 42mm C1s are perceptively bright, the optical quality is not in the same league as the smaller 30mm B3s. Compactness + high-end optics = B3. Cost + longer eye relief = C1

[@outyxt800]

@@targettamers To be honest here didn’t think you were going to reply :). Once again really appreciate your time in reviews & reply’s. Your right I’m leaning towards the B1.2 10x but to be honest haven’t excluded the B6 10x. I’m in no rush so going to wait for Black Friday and see maybe if they have a sale on. I really like the B2 but not to excited about the extra size & weight therefore thinking B1.2 will be the winner here. Thanks again for all your time & input. Can’t wait to have these in my hand. Have a good one Tina:)

[@targettamers]

@@outyxt800 No worries Steve, enjoy whatever pair you ultimately decide on. Happy Glassing!

[@dingdong5601]

"Now why would you spend this much on binoculars? Ummm, duh, because you can!" So soooo true lol

[@israelvalle9007]

Great Job!

[@targettamers]

Thank you! Cheers! - Simon

[@RenoLaringo]

Even stargating ?!? Seems pretty exciting😊

[@virbhadur7824]

Nice 👏

[@targettamers]

Thank you! 🙂