I don't know how I've missed your videos before. You give good and bad and the reasons you like something for a specific purpose...that is something we need more of so THANKS MAN. You are what we need today...No BS about this specific brand because they're sponsored...can never rely or trust those folks to tell the nitty-gritty of the good AND bad. I'm 70yrs old and never been on any Guided Hunts only for the economics for ME. I MEAT hunt on low budget and never been interested in TROPHY Hunting. Nothing wrong or have any negative moral issues for me about Trophy Hunting so everyone chill. Cliff, you are a breath of fresh air and I really like your Don't Care attitude about your language. We all slip and use a curse word and to be honest i really don't like or get along with guys that can't say SHIT every now and then. It's an everyday word for any normal outdoors people...even galls use it and it never feels wrong or inappropriate... enough about that. Thanks and you've got a new subscribed follower.
Amen, twin brother from another mother. I am not that far behind you in age. I also have not been on a guided mountain hunt or even an outfitter hunt, mostly because of economics. I spend my money on gear and hunt on public land. And all of his points make sense from both the mountain hunting and the close range forest hunting that I do. My max range of target where I am at is 225 yards, most of it is 100 yards or less because of dense, as in really thick, forest and bushes. Public lands that are wildlife management areas, which means they are not cultivated or groomed. I have the Vortex Diamondback 12x50 binocs and I love those. I am fairly steady and I will also do like he does, rest them on my trigger stik tipod. I have the y piece and I also have a clamp piece. The trigger stik comes with a base with a standard post. Any device such as camera, phone holder, or scope that can thread on there willl work. Learn to pack what you want. As for optics, I have Vortex riflescopes and Arken. I like each of them for different reasons. I like his advice on rifles and the accuracy needed for mountain hunting. You need a light rifle that can shoot 1 to 2 MOA. This truly is different than the 18 pound precision rifles guys are building to hit the X at 800 yards plus. Hunting is about placing enough energy and size in a zone, and that is different but it focuses, pun intended, on the efforts you need. I follow the Jeff Cooper advice, don't shoot unsupported. But there could always be a time on a stalk where you do not have time to set up all the gear and look pretty. Bring to the shoulder, estimate holds, squeeze the trigger. So, a few times around the house, distance doesn't matter, I walk around a bit, as if hiking. Then bring up my rifle (not loaded, mag out, ammo in another room) and squeeze on targets. My rifle, which is measured digitally by others for me at .516 MOA (rounded down) now has some swing because of my breathing. So, the object is to let the circle become smaller and squeeze at the right moment. Because my breathing has now caused that .516 MOA rifle to shoot 2 MOA. That also means that my off-hand shots should be limited to 200 yards or less on a whitetail deer with an 8 inch pie plate. The long distance advice is still great. In my state, in the western part of it, there is a draw to win a compartment hunt for mule deer and the hunt guide warns of freezing conditions, rough country camping, and shots that average 200 yards or more. Turns out that you cannot just catch mule deer by putting salt on his tail.
It doesn't sound like it would benefit you, but as a long time hunter/glasser, if your viewers read this and wear a ballcap, clamp the binoculars to your ballcap with your hands (think about it). It helps a ton. Love your channel!
Crazy man - I actually videoed a “short range glassing” video today and I talked about this tip. I had another comment awhile back suggesting the same. Tried it out, works great! Thanks
I was looking at spotting scope and ended up with the 15x56 SLC instead because it will work better in my application for the $ at least. I'll keep saving up for the spotter and go with the high quality over the budget stuff
I just graduated to a set of Leupold BX-5 Santium 12x50’s because I’m old and because I’m old I can hold them still enough and I can put them on my tripod. I have a Sightron 85mm spouting scope. 24 year of military service tends to wear out a body and what used to take me an hour or two now takes 3 or 4 hours to cover the same ground. So, I don’t need powerful optics because I just can’t cover the ground like I used to. I agree with the both eyes open. People need to learn to look through their rifle scope with both eyes open also. I’m enjoying your videos @Cliff. Wanna come hunt with me? I don’t need a guide but you’re welcome to tag along. September archery elk and October mulie in Idaho. Come see how an old wore out vet hunts.
Hey Richard, really appreciate the comment. Would love to get out for a hunt with you, but this Fall I’m getting pulled back into guiding a few hunts and have a couple personal hunts… my wife would kill me if I put another one on the calendar! Haha
This is great stuff. My chest bino is a Swaro EL 10x50 which I’m very happy with? Recently found a killer deal on a Vortex UHD 18x56 which I hope will be a good tripod optic? Eventually I want to get an NL 14x52 but the sheer cost has got me spooked at the moment 😅 Thank you so for your channel. Again, very good info.
Excellent video! Helped me a lot on picking what new binos to pick up in upgrade to elk hunt the flat tops. Totally agree on optics. Bought a expensive nikon spotter 20yrs ago and still as good as the day I bought it.
I’ve had 8x42 Swarovski binoculars since I moved to Montana 25 years ago. Back then, they didn’t make bino-range finders. Lighter weight and easier to use.
Hey Cliff what bino/range finders you use, or even recommend? I didn't catch it you mentioned the ones you have there Almost seems best to keep it simple but this combo may be worth it..... Thanks
Another thought for ya. Should do a video on how to use face measurement like eye with, ear length ect.. to gage horns. Caz in Mt. Goats a 8 big and an 81/2 is a monster.
Are you familiar with the Slik EZ 330 , EZ 340 tripods with the Slik SH-707 head this tripod setup works real well with 15x56 binos The Slik SH-707 is similar to a Jim White knock off head that is very popular with the quick disconnect shoe here in southern Arizona
I started with a pair of Leupold when I only bow hunt in northern AZ. Then, after one trip with a friend down south glassing the mountain ranges with Swaros, I am sold and got the SLCs, with a Sig range finder. Then along came the Leica/Sig 10x42, ranging and ballistic binos. I added Sig 3000 to my lineup. Still a bit hesitant to get a good spotter (bought and sold a Nikon Prostaff, not very good out to 1000 yards, lots of mirage), but if I do, the Swaro BTX would be the way to go, when I can glass with both eyes. Expensive and bulky though, so I'm still on the fence.
Oh, and use Arca Swiss heads/mounts liberally! Moving from glassing support/video taking to shooting support in seconds. I have that across my entire system.
good stuff! I tried the BTX and it wasn't for me. Had a loaner set a couple seasons back - just couldn't find where they made sense for me. If I was more vehicle based, they would have been a great option.
I live in Arizona, primarily hunting whitetail. I have a pair of Diamondback 10x50 and I’m looking to upgrade. I only glass with a tripod. I’m torn between purchasing a 10x42 EL or the 15x56 SLC. Any suggestions? I’d eventfully get both but I can only purchase one at a time.
What would your advice be on building an optic system without selling a body part to pay for it? I’m an southern whitetail hunter who makes a couple trips out west for deer and elk. I currently have a set of decent bushnell 10x42s. What would you recommend as my first high end optic purchase? High end 8s, big bino or spotter? I’m not counting inches but also don’t want to need more magnification and not have it??
Hey Shane, if you are primarily “meat hunting” (not dead set on X size animal) get some big binos (12-15s) and a decent tripod. That will get you into more game, guaranteed, if you spend some time practicing. Look at the brands like Maven/Vortex. They have some great stuff for the $. Lots of competition in optics has driven up quality across the board. Good luck Shane! 👍
Hay clif I hunt deer elk oryx and speed goats. Thinking about getting a new set. Was wondering what size would u recommend? 8 10 12 15 ? 42 56? Been using 8x42. But really like looking throw 15x56
I have been struggling with the choice of a chest bino pack and where to holster my side arm. Winter weather means I am wearing more layers and a chest holster seems the best for me. What have you found to work for you?
The big question is 15x56 SLC’s vs 12x50 NL Pure’s for long range elk spotting. The glass seems much clearer on the Pure’s plus the extra field of view, is that worth the power loss vs the less clear 15’s? Really curious and looking for input
Hey William - I have tried the Pure 12x50s. I have to admit that it is a very close call but for a new buyer - I would recommend the 12x Pures. phenomenal binos, ergonomic, smaller, weigh less, similar effectiveness.
Great video, thx. Have you compared the NL Pure against the EL? I wanted to upgrade from my gen 1 EL and I went with the NL Pure. Better FOV and a little better balanced on the field flattening, which I prefered. Also, the head rest accessory is usable. And I like the ergos better, but that is subjective.
I have compared the two briefly and the NL Pure are better. For me personally, the ergonomics alone probably make it a worthy change. I just haven't gotten the time to swap them out yet!
Hey Cliff! Great info, earned a subscriber here! What are your thoughts on the Vortex Viper HD? Dont have the money to justify euro glass. And by the sounds of it, if you have to choose between spotter and tripod binos, you would go binos? Thanks!
The highend Vortex models are a great value. Hard to say on spotter/big binos… depends on how/what you hunt. I’ll get a video out on that question specifically 👍
Hey mate, quality stuff you're putting out. Do you see any advantage to going with an 18x spotting bino over the 15x? Do you think you're losing too much field of view at 18?
I don't think there is much difference honestly. There are a lot of 15x binoculars on the market, so you have more options at that magnification for tripod binos. If you are asking if it matters what the low end of your magnification range on spotters is (some are 15 or 18, or 25)... it really doesn't. The majority of your use of spotters is going to be in the 30-40x range. hope that helps.
if buying used - the high end brands are nice because they will usually fix any internal issues there might be. Other than that, I think used is a great way to go. Even stuff with scratched lenses that you can get for cheap - a lot of the times you can't even tell they have a scratch when you are actually glassing. Not ideal, but a great way to get some good stuff.
I struggle to find game period. I would say 75% of the time I find game I find them with both my eyes 👀 with out optics. I just bought some Zeiss 10x42 binos and ditched the leupold 20-60 spotting scope because my eyes hurt bad using it and I never seemed to find anything at all! Do you think the binos will be better for actually finding game than the spotting scope? I will be needing to see areas as far as a mile away
I never ask, "What should I buy?". Rather, my question when seeking information on hunting, shooting, or any gear for that matter is, "What do you recommend, based on your experience with (blank)...and why?
Cliff, I've been watching a lot of your videos and I've learned a lot. but I'm really curious as to why you know nothing about the image Stabilizing binoculars. With image stabilizing 10 power binoculars are actually on the small side even 12 power or on the small side because well there's no vibration. I'm sure you've had clients you've used them, so what's your thoughts on them????
Jack, I have used them. Recently and a long time ago while billfishing. They have been around on those boats for years. I also have a new set of Sigs for testing this Fall. The past ones I used were fairly low quality glass. So there was this tradeoff between poor glass vs the stabilization. Also, and this is probably unique to me or just a subset of folks, they make me motion sick after long glassing sessions. I'm guessing that has to do with constant strain from the low optical quality. I have heard that the new Sigs avoid a lot of the issues I describe. If that's the case... you may see a video in the future where I tell everyone to throw away their $300 tripods! hahaha. I love the idea of them... just haven't nailed it for me yet.
I have actually tried this, and didn't like it. The trigger sticks have a little "bounce" to them... this is nice when moving around with a rifle but not great for systematically glassing off a tripod setup. Having said that, just like a walking stick or anything else I might have with me, I will just set my binos on tops of trigger sticks for a quick glassing session. Any support is better than no support. Hope that helps.
We wanted to ask if we are short on money and don't want to waste cash I know but the best you can but what is minimal with decent eye relief? 800-1500? Or does Leupold bx-4 work at 500?
Just depends on what kind of hunting, in terms of how much value there is from expensive glass for you. In the $1k range, your best value is probably Vortex’s higher end models 👍
Was in the flattops last week and saw a lot and learned Im really not in shape Also I had a lot of heat waves I know asummer issce but is high end glass better with it?
I know you aren't a fan of 12x but carrying 3 optics is a lot more weight. 12x on a tripod works really well and I've never felt at a disadvantage when hand holding them for short periods of time. Putting binos on a tripod is a game changer at any magnification. So have you ever tried putting your 8x on the tripod?
I don't recall if I mention it in this video, but I can't handhold anything about a 10 - or I actually get motion sick. I feel like I am more sensitive to it than many folks, as I do know people that hand hold 12s without issue. Sounds like you are in that boat. Also agreed on carrying 3 optics - truth is that I am usually trading off spotter vs 15s based on type of hunt. I do use my 8s on a tripod - particularly in low light conditions or if I want to glass into a meadow after shooting time via moonlight. thanks for the comment
Here's another advantage for 8x binos without the rangefinder... They're lighter. A lot lighter. Rangefinder binos are heavy and most quality glass have a lot of... Well... Glass aka elements in them so when you hold them for some time the shake just gets worse. I really like 10x or 12x magnification but you just can't hold still esp if you glass a bit longer. The rangefinder makes it that much worse. I really dislike lugging the weight. Ended up buying the Zeiss SFL (lightweight model) 8x40 for the light transmission and weight, with separate rangefinder (super light). Quite happy with it. Bought before the swaro atc 17-40x56 came out. Might have made that my single glass system instead (on a carbon tripod).
Awesome videos Cliff. Have you had the opportunity to check out the Swarovski NL Pure 12x42? If so, are they possibly good enough to use in place of both the 10s and 15s?
I haven't been able to try them out yet. In general, I can't hand hold 12x magnification binos due to the movement, so I wouldn't be able to replace a 10x chest binocular with them.
I do own a pair of the NLs in 12x42 with the forehead rest. My take on them would be that the large field of view and forehead rest combine to produce an image that is about as stable as an average 10x42. They have great clarity and light transmission, so they are surprisingly good at resolving detail especially once you put them on a tripod, but they still have 20% less magnification than a 15x, so overall it’s still a compromise. To me it’s worth it when the terrain is rough and/or there are a lot of miles to be covered.
I have used one. When they just came out, I was given one to check out for about a week. Really enjoyable to use, but the BTX didn't fit into my styles of hunting. They don't replace 15x binos for me, because they are too heavy. They don't replace my spotter as they are fixed magnification. For someone that is more vehicle based, I think they are a great option.
Great info. I’ve got the el range 10x was thinking the btx plus the 85 or 95 might be the quiver killer. I’m big so weight is not much of an issue, I am with you on the fixed magnification. Really enjoyed your video. Subscribed.
What are your thoughts on the Zeiss conquest 15x56 binos? I don’t really have the money yet for high end chest binos, 15x56, and a spotter. Thinking about selling my vortex razor 10x50s and buy the Zeiss 15x56s. I would also buy a cheaper pair of chest binos till I can afford better and then buy a spotter on down the road. Do you agree with my thinking?
Hi Ben, I don't have any experience with the Zeiss 15s. However, just like the other high-end glass producers I'm sure they are great. Where to spend the money varies a lot of the type of hunting you are doing. However, it's hard to argue that the raw production from 15s, in terms of glassing up of hard-to-find game animals, is going to be matched by your other optics. On the other side of things, functionally you can do everything you can with 15s, with a good spotter. It's just not quite as comfortable...
I’ve 8’s, 10’s, and 12’s….8 is my preferred focal length by far. I find no benefit in a 10 over an 8. Clarity and brightness over focal length all day.
If you ever get lucky enough to hunt with me Cliff, I would teach you a thing or two. (Total dumbass sarcasm) I can only dream to learn from you on a guided trip someday. Great video as always
I am amused by folks thinking they need such high powered binos. All I see is overpriced stuff no hunter really needs if that person is truly a hunter. If seven power binos won't work for you I feel sorry for you.
I don't know how I've missed your videos before. You give good and bad and the reasons you like something for a specific purpose...that is something we need more of so THANKS MAN.
You are what we need today...No BS about this specific brand because they're sponsored...can never rely or trust those folks to tell the nitty-gritty of the good AND bad.
I'm 70yrs old and never been on any Guided Hunts only for the economics for ME. I MEAT hunt on low budget and never been interested in TROPHY Hunting. Nothing wrong or have any negative moral issues for me about Trophy Hunting so everyone chill.
Cliff, you are a breath of fresh air and I really like your Don't Care attitude about your language. We all slip and use a curse word and to be honest i really don't like or get along with guys that can't say SHIT every now and then. It's an everyday word for any normal outdoors people...even galls use it and it never feels wrong or inappropriate... enough about that.
Thanks and you've got a new subscribed follower.
Amen, twin brother from another mother. I am not that far behind you in age. I also have not been on a guided mountain hunt or even an outfitter hunt, mostly because of economics. I spend my money on gear and hunt on public land. And all of his points make sense from both the mountain hunting and the close range forest hunting that I do. My max range of target where I am at is 225 yards, most of it is 100 yards or less because of dense, as in really thick, forest and bushes. Public lands that are wildlife management areas, which means they are not cultivated or groomed.
I have the Vortex Diamondback 12x50 binocs and I love those. I am fairly steady and I will also do like he does, rest them on my trigger stik tipod. I have the y piece and I also have a clamp piece. The trigger stik comes with a base with a standard post. Any device such as camera, phone holder, or scope that can thread on there willl work.
Learn to pack what you want. As for optics, I have Vortex riflescopes and Arken. I like each of them for different reasons. I like his advice on rifles and the accuracy needed for mountain hunting. You need a light rifle that can shoot 1 to 2 MOA. This truly is different than the 18 pound precision rifles guys are building to hit the X at 800 yards plus. Hunting is about placing enough energy and size in a zone, and that is different but it focuses, pun intended, on the efforts you need.
I follow the Jeff Cooper advice, don't shoot unsupported. But there could always be a time on a stalk where you do not have time to set up all the gear and look pretty. Bring to the shoulder, estimate holds, squeeze the trigger. So, a few times around the house, distance doesn't matter, I walk around a bit, as if hiking. Then bring up my rifle (not loaded, mag out, ammo in another room) and squeeze on targets. My rifle, which is measured digitally by others for me at .516 MOA (rounded down) now has some swing because of my breathing. So, the object is to let the circle become smaller and squeeze at the right moment. Because my breathing has now caused that .516 MOA rifle to shoot 2 MOA. That also means that my off-hand shots should be limited to 200 yards or less on a whitetail deer with an 8 inch pie plate.
The long distance advice is still great. In my state, in the western part of it, there is a draw to win a compartment hunt for mule deer and the hunt guide warns of freezing conditions, rough country camping, and shots that average 200 yards or more. Turns out that you cannot just catch mule deer by putting salt on his tail.
I didn’t realize Raab Himself was a hunter!
Thanks for the detailed video 😊
This video is a perfect example of why you're the best in this space. You always help me get my head around difficult gear tradeoffs.
It doesn't sound like it would benefit you, but as a long time hunter/glasser, if your viewers read this and wear a ballcap, clamp the binoculars to your ballcap with your hands (think about it). It helps a ton.
Love your channel!
Crazy man - I actually videoed a “short range glassing” video today and I talked about this tip. I had another comment awhile back suggesting the same. Tried it out, works great! Thanks
I was looking at spotting scope and ended up with the 15x56 SLC instead because it will work better in my application for the $ at least. I'll keep saving up for the spotter and go with the high quality over the budget stuff
I just graduated to a set of Leupold BX-5 Santium 12x50’s because I’m old and because I’m old I can hold them still enough and I can put them on my tripod. I have a Sightron 85mm spouting scope. 24 year of military service tends to wear out a body and what used to take me an hour or two now takes 3 or 4 hours to cover the same ground. So, I don’t need powerful optics because I just can’t cover the ground like I used to. I agree with the both eyes open. People need to learn to look through their rifle scope with both eyes open also. I’m enjoying your videos @Cliff. Wanna come hunt with me? I don’t need a guide but you’re welcome to tag along. September archery elk and October mulie in Idaho. Come see how an old wore out vet hunts.
Hey Richard, really appreciate the comment. Would love to get out for a hunt with you, but this Fall I’m getting pulled back into guiding a few hunts and have a couple personal hunts… my wife would kill me if I put another one on the calendar! Haha
This is great stuff. My chest bino is a Swaro EL 10x50 which I’m very happy with? Recently found a killer deal on a Vortex UHD 18x56 which I hope will be a good tripod optic?
Eventually I want to get an NL 14x52 but the sheer cost has got me spooked at the moment 😅
Thank you so for your channel.
Again, very good info.
Excellent video! Helped me a lot on picking what new binos to pick up in upgrade to elk hunt the flat tops. Totally agree on optics. Bought a expensive nikon spotter 20yrs ago and still as good as the day I bought it.
I’ve had 8x42 Swarovski binoculars since I moved to Montana 25 years ago. Back then, they didn’t make bino-range finders. Lighter weight and easier to use.
Hey Cliff what bino/range finders you use, or even recommend?
I didn't catch it you mentioned the ones you have there
Almost seems best to keep it simple but this combo may be worth it.....
Thanks
Another thought for ya. Should do a video on how to use face measurement like eye with, ear length ect.. to gage horns. Caz in Mt. Goats a 8 big and an 81/2 is a monster.
My Swarovski binos are 8.5 x 42. I like them better than 10 power because of wider field of view.
Wow thanks I learned a ton from this video!
Are you familiar with the Slik EZ 330 , EZ 340 tripods with the Slik SH-707 head this tripod setup works real well with 15x56 binos
The Slik SH-707 is similar to a Jim White knock off head that is very popular with the quick disconnect shoe here in southern Arizona
I recently found your channel and am enjoying your content. I am subscribed and look forward to more. thanks again.
For sure! Thanks for subscribing
I started with a pair of Leupold when I only bow hunt in northern AZ. Then, after one trip with a friend down south glassing the mountain ranges with Swaros, I am sold and got the SLCs, with a Sig range finder. Then along came the Leica/Sig 10x42, ranging and ballistic binos. I added Sig 3000 to my lineup. Still a bit hesitant to get a good spotter (bought and sold a Nikon Prostaff, not very good out to 1000 yards, lots of mirage), but if I do, the Swaro BTX would be the way to go, when I can glass with both eyes. Expensive and bulky though, so I'm still on the fence.
Oh, and use Arca Swiss heads/mounts liberally! Moving from glassing support/video taking to shooting support in seconds. I have that across my entire system.
good stuff! I tried the BTX and it wasn't for me. Had a loaner set a couple seasons back - just couldn't find where they made sense for me. If I was more vehicle based, they would have been a great option.
Awesome rundown thanks for sharing!
You bet!
@@CliffGray i absolutely love your videos very informative start to the point no bs!
New to big game, and this is great info for me. Good video. Thank you for sharing your experience. Subing
Glad the videos are helpful! thanks
I live in Arizona, primarily hunting whitetail. I have a pair of Diamondback 10x50 and I’m looking to upgrade. I only glass with a tripod. I’m torn between purchasing a 10x42 EL or the 15x56 SLC. Any suggestions? I’d eventfully get both but I can only purchase one at a time.
What would your advice be on building an optic system without selling a body part to pay for it? I’m an southern whitetail hunter who makes a couple trips out west for deer and elk. I currently have a set of decent bushnell 10x42s. What would you recommend as my first high end optic purchase? High end 8s, big bino or spotter? I’m not counting inches but also don’t want to need more magnification and not have it??
Hey Shane, if you are primarily “meat hunting” (not dead set on X size animal) get some big binos (12-15s) and a decent tripod. That will get you into more game, guaranteed, if you spend some time practicing. Look at the brands like Maven/Vortex. They have some great stuff for the $. Lots of competition in optics has driven up quality across the board. Good luck Shane! 👍
Hay clif I hunt deer elk oryx and speed goats. Thinking about getting a new set. Was wondering what size would u recommend? 8 10 12 15 ? 42 56? Been using 8x42. But really like looking throw 15x56
Take a look at the new image stabilization Binos coming out before you buy anything. I’ll do a video on them sometime this Fall. Pretty cool
@@CliffGray right on man thanks for the tip.
Who all is planing on coming out with them. I see there's a cannon and a sign one on the market. But never used there binos?
Great video buddy. Please keep them coming. I love the honesty and real world application and your opinion.
Appreciate the feedback and glad the videos are helpful. After hunting season, I'll get back at it and add some more!
I have been struggling with the choice of a chest bino pack and where to holster my side arm. Winter weather means I am wearing more layers and a chest holster seems the best for me. What have you found to work for you?
I'm actually going to be putting out a bino review video over next few months. I'll cover the gun/bear topics in that also.
The big question is 15x56 SLC’s vs 12x50 NL Pure’s for long range elk spotting. The glass seems much clearer on the Pure’s plus the extra field of view, is that worth the power loss vs the less clear 15’s? Really curious and looking for input
Hey William - I have tried the Pure 12x50s. I have to admit that it is a very close call but for a new buyer - I would recommend the 12x Pures. phenomenal binos, ergonomic, smaller, weigh less, similar effectiveness.
Great video, thx. Have you compared the NL Pure against the EL? I wanted to upgrade from my gen 1 EL and I went with the NL Pure. Better FOV and a little better balanced on the field flattening, which I prefered. Also, the head rest accessory is usable. And I like the ergos better, but that is subjective.
I have compared the two briefly and the NL Pure are better. For me personally, the ergonomics alone probably make it a worthy change. I just haven't gotten the time to swap them out yet!
Hey Cliff! Great info, earned a subscriber here! What are your thoughts on the Vortex Viper HD? Dont have the money to justify euro glass. And by the sounds of it, if you have to choose between spotter and tripod binos, you would go binos?
Thanks!
The highend Vortex models are a great value.
Hard to say on spotter/big binos… depends on how/what you hunt.
I’ll get a video out on that question specifically 👍
Hey mate, quality stuff you're putting out. Do you see any advantage to going with an 18x spotting bino over the 15x? Do you think you're losing too much field of view at 18?
I don't think there is much difference honestly. There are a lot of 15x binoculars on the market, so you have more options at that magnification for tripod binos. If you are asking if it matters what the low end of your magnification range on spotters is (some are 15 or 18, or 25)... it really doesn't. The majority of your use of spotters is going to be in the 30-40x range. hope that helps.
@@CliffGray Yea mostly referring to the binos on a tripod. I'm looking less for trophy quality and more for animal presence. Thanks for the input.
I'm looking for a used set any advice/things I should look out for?
if buying used - the high end brands are nice because they will usually fix any internal issues there might be. Other than that, I think used is a great way to go. Even stuff with scratched lenses that you can get for cheap - a lot of the times you can't even tell they have a scratch when you are actually glassing. Not ideal, but a great way to get some good stuff.
I struggle to find game period. I would say 75% of the time I find game I find them with both my eyes 👀 with out optics. I just bought some Zeiss 10x42 binos and ditched the leupold 20-60 spotting scope because my eyes hurt bad using it and I never seemed to find anything at all! Do you think the binos will be better for actually finding game than the spotting scope? I will be needing to see areas as far as a mile away
I never ask, "What should I buy?". Rather, my question when seeking information on hunting, shooting, or any gear for that matter is, "What do you recommend, based on your experience with (blank)...and why?
Cliff, I've been watching a lot of your videos and I've learned a lot. but I'm really curious as to why you know nothing about the image Stabilizing binoculars. With image stabilizing 10 power binoculars are actually on the small side even 12 power or on the small side because well there's no vibration. I'm sure you've had clients you've used them, so what's your thoughts on them????
Jack, I have used them. Recently and a long time ago while billfishing. They have been around on those boats for years. I also have a new set of Sigs for testing this Fall.
The past ones I used were fairly low quality glass. So there was this tradeoff between poor glass vs the stabilization. Also, and this is probably unique to me or just a subset of folks, they make me motion sick after long glassing sessions. I'm guessing that has to do with constant strain from the low optical quality.
I have heard that the new Sigs avoid a lot of the issues I describe. If that's the case... you may see a video in the future where I tell everyone to throw away their $300 tripods! hahaha.
I love the idea of them... just haven't nailed it for me yet.
Awesome video Cliff. What do you think about using the primos trigger stick for your large binos with an adapter? I have heard mixed reviews.
I have actually tried this, and didn't like it. The trigger sticks have a little "bounce" to them... this is nice when moving around with a rifle but not great for systematically glassing off a tripod setup. Having said that, just like a walking stick or anything else I might have with me, I will just set my binos on tops of trigger sticks for a quick glassing session. Any support is better than no support. Hope that helps.
We wanted to ask if we are short on money and don't want to waste cash I know but the best you can but what is minimal with decent eye relief? 800-1500? Or does Leupold bx-4 work at 500?
Just depends on what kind of hunting, in terms of how much value there is from expensive glass for you. In the $1k range, your best value is probably Vortex’s higher end models 👍
Was in the flattops last week and saw a lot and learned Im really not in shape
Also I had a lot of heat waves I know asummer issce but is high end glass better
with it?
I know you aren't a fan of 12x but carrying 3 optics is a lot more weight. 12x on a tripod works really well and I've never felt at a disadvantage when hand holding them for short periods of time. Putting binos on a tripod is a game changer at any magnification. So have you ever tried putting your 8x on the tripod?
I don't recall if I mention it in this video, but I can't handhold anything about a 10 - or I actually get motion sick. I feel like I am more sensitive to it than many folks, as I do know people that hand hold 12s without issue. Sounds like you are in that boat. Also agreed on carrying 3 optics - truth is that I am usually trading off spotter vs 15s based on type of hunt.
I do use my 8s on a tripod - particularly in low light conditions or if I want to glass into a meadow after shooting time via moonlight. thanks for the comment
Here's another advantage for 8x binos without the rangefinder...
They're lighter. A lot lighter. Rangefinder binos are heavy and most quality glass have a lot of... Well... Glass aka elements in them so when you hold them for some time the shake just gets worse.
I really like 10x or 12x magnification but you just can't hold still esp if you glass a bit longer. The rangefinder makes it that much worse. I really dislike lugging the weight.
Ended up buying the Zeiss SFL (lightweight model) 8x40 for the light transmission and weight, with separate rangefinder (super light). Quite happy with it.
Bought before the swaro atc 17-40x56 came out. Might have made that my single glass system instead (on a carbon tripod).
good optics are like wife's there meant to be around for a life time or until the neighbor steels them. lol too funny
Awesome videos Cliff. Have you had the opportunity to check out the Swarovski NL Pure 12x42? If so, are they possibly good enough to use in place of both the 10s and 15s?
I haven't been able to try them out yet. In general, I can't hand hold 12x magnification binos due to the movement, so I wouldn't be able to replace a 10x chest binocular with them.
I do own a pair of the NLs in 12x42 with the forehead rest. My take on them would be that the large field of view and forehead rest combine to produce an image that is about as stable as an average 10x42. They have great clarity and light transmission, so they are surprisingly good at resolving detail especially once you put them on a tripod, but they still have 20% less magnification than a 15x, so overall it’s still a compromise. To me it’s worth it when the terrain is rough and/or there are a lot of miles to be covered.
Have you tried the btx?
I have used one. When they just came out, I was given one to check out for about a week. Really enjoyable to use, but the BTX didn't fit into my styles of hunting. They don't replace 15x binos for me, because they are too heavy. They don't replace my spotter as they are fixed magnification. For someone that is more vehicle based, I think they are a great option.
Great info. I’ve got the el range 10x was thinking the btx plus the 85 or 95 might be the quiver killer. I’m big so weight is not much of an issue, I am with you on the fixed magnification.
Really enjoyed your video. Subscribed.
What are your thoughts on the Zeiss conquest 15x56 binos? I don’t really have the money yet for high end chest binos, 15x56, and a spotter. Thinking about selling my vortex razor 10x50s and buy the Zeiss 15x56s. I would also buy a cheaper pair of chest binos till I can afford better and then buy a spotter on down the road. Do you agree with my thinking?
Hi Ben, I don't have any experience with the Zeiss 15s. However, just like the other high-end glass producers I'm sure they are great.
Where to spend the money varies a lot of the type of hunting you are doing. However, it's hard to argue that the raw production from 15s, in terms of glassing up of hard-to-find game animals, is going to be matched by your other optics. On the other side of things, functionally you can do everything you can with 15s, with a good spotter. It's just not quite as comfortable...
I'm a straight guy but like the angles. 😊
I’ve 8’s, 10’s, and 12’s….8 is my preferred focal length by far. I find no benefit in a 10 over an 8.
Clarity and brightness over focal length all day.
Even on mule deer hunts?
If you ever get lucky enough to hunt with me Cliff, I would teach you a thing or two. (Total dumbass sarcasm)
I can only dream to learn from you on a guided trip someday.
Great video as always
For me the 8 by 30 habicht is more than enough.
Straight or bent optic 🤣🤣🤣. The LBGT supporters will appreciate that joke haha. Leopold Bino for Grazing Trophy’s
ha!
what happened to your other optics video where you went over all of these?
Hey Nolan, they are all still on the channel. A bunch of the thumbnails were updated.. so it might look a bit different in the listing now.
@@CliffGray I don't see it... there was one were you were sitting on the floor talking optics/tripods
Swarovski....The best period..
You’re such a cool fucking dude. Thanks for so much great content. Going though all your videos.
thanks man! glad you find the stuff helpful
👍💯💯💯💯
Most guys in NV run 15s on there chest.. I've always scratched my head watching them but they get away with it
I don't know how guys don't get motion sick doing that... I've tried! haha
@@CliffGray I know it's crazy they gotta run around with a tri pod!
I am amused by folks thinking they need such high powered binos. All I see is overpriced stuff no hunter really needs if that person is truly a hunter. If seven power binos won't work for you I feel sorry for you.