I really respect Vortex and I love how they are on the common mans level. You guys have changed the game. There is no one on your level in terms of customer support and warranty. If you guys continue to honor your warranty and quality you have customers for life.
I just finished watching the podcast and ended up ordering a Diamondback HD 10x32. Diamondback must be one of the best bang for buck products on the market. Shout out from South Africa 🇿🇦
Just got my binoculars back today. Had to send a broken set for warranty work. Vortex couldn't repair so offered me multiple options to choose to make it right. Amazing, truly amazing company, customer service. All I own is vortex product and probably too much of it (wife gets angry). You guys have a customer for life. Thank you.
Just finished listening to this episode. I still have my marine 7x50 - from my previous research (when I had a boat) it is supposed to be the optimal magnification that you can reasonably manage on a moving platform combined with a large objective lens for low -light performance. They're not compact, but definitely not massive, either. I feel like most of the use cases would apply to average hunting scenarios.
I’ve talked to Mike twice on the phone before purchasing optics from my local Sportsman’s Warehouse. Both times I was able to clinic the salesperson. Jim’s little blurbs on the other channel have sold me on better rings and tripod parts. I wouldn’t say I’m a fanboy, however, because I get a much better understanding of your product line I’m way more comfortable when I purchase. Thank You and keep it coming.
Regarding ring systems: *Typically* a ring system forms around a planet when a solid body in orbit breaks up into tiny little pieces for one reason or another. Because the thing is orbiting around the planet, the debris cloud flattens and thins out, just like a spinning pizza. Ring systems tend to decay and disappear as collisions between dust and particles in the ring knock individual pieces down into the planet. Almost certainly earth had a ring system when the moon was formed.
And the rumor is true - Jim is alive! We missed you, brother Jim. It is the witty banter you have with Mark. That is an act you could take on the road. "Who's on first?" "Third base? I don't know!"
Everytime Mike or Nick is on I think I'm listening to the actor Tom Wilkinson. episode 84 you guys did with Mike on binos is in my regular listening rotation. He's always fantastic
The experts statement about optical quality having a huge effect on brightness is demonstrated on the Leica 8x20 Ultravid compacts I am lucky enough to own a pair of. The image quality and brightness for such a small objective lens is astounding. They are tiny and enable me to carry them far more often than I do with any other of my binoculars (8x42 Nikon Monach M5 and 10x50 Steiner Safari) . It depends on how often you use them and what for. The reason I chose the Monarch M5’s over the M7’s is that although the M7 is definitely better, it’s also twice the price without being twice as good. If I was wealthy or used my binoculars much more often I would have either a pair of Leica 8x42 Noctivids or Swarovski EL 8.5x42 as they are probably the best optical quality you can buy.
Depending on the type of terrain you are in you can certainly use a small compact bino or rangefinder even and be just fine! For better details and further glassing distances, binos will definitely come in handy.
I gotta tell ya, I own a Diamondback HD 10x42, a Viper HD 10x42. a Viper HD 8x42, and just bought a Razor UHD 8x42. I have a pretty extensive photography background, and fully understand the benefits of quality glass. That being said, I REALLY have to look hard to see that much improvement between the Diamondback and the Razor. Don't get me wrong, the Razor UHD is a great piece of glass, but there is clearly an issue of diminishing returns. The Razor UHD is not giving me $1200 better views than my Diamondback HD. I literally had to compare all binoculars side by side against a resolution test pattern to prove that the UHD can resolve finer detail. When actually using them in the field, there is less chromatic aberration, color fringing, and better edge sharpness, but unless you are familiar with these things, you're not gonna notice it. Unless you're trying to see the sex of a gnat at 300 yards, save your money and get the Diamondback HD or the Viper HD. I love my Vortex Binos, and will be keeping the Razor UHD, but I can't honestly say they're worth the price of admission.
I would like to update the above comment. When I originally bought my Vipers, I had just bought an equal pair of Diamondback. I haven't really used the Diamondback much since getting the Vipers. This comment was made only a couple days after getting the Razor UHD, and I have since done a lot more comparisons in less than ideal conditions. The Razor UHD are definitely better. No doubt. They have more contrast and less internal flare than the others when it's dark and you're looking towards an object with a light slightlyout of view. The Razors are easier to use, as the eye relief "sweet spot" is perfect with the eye cups fully extended. My Viper and Diamondback have to have the eye cups on the 2nd or 3rd position, and I have to really press them against my nose to get the best view. That being said, I still feel there's a lot of diminishing returns, and many of these "issues" are only noticed when comparing them side by side. I would be perfectly happy with just my Vipers, but now they'll be the ones I let someone else use if they're birding with me
@@billmoyer3254 I own a Nikon D3 and D300. For glass, I own Nikon (Nikkor) 300mm f/2.8, 70-200 f/2.8, a Nikon 24-70 f/2.8, Nikon 14-24 f/2.8 and an 85mm f/1.4 (aka the cream machine). So, you were saying?
Some time ago, I decided for once to have some decent binocs. And I have been getting my Vortex stuff from Amazon, which has often been below MSRP. I would look at each model and see that, for just a bit more, you get a lot more value. So, I talked myself into cry once, buy once and that the Diamondback HD 12x50. Now, I see you have the 15x56. Anyway, so I have noticed that even amongst other people who like other brands of scopes and gear, many of them will recommend or own Vortex Diamondback binocs. I am already a Vortex fan boy but I think it is for a good reason. Quality, price, and warranty, the trifecta. This last weekend, Saturday, out at my nearby (a smidge more than one hour) public hunting land, it was too hot, over 70 F by the time I found some good roosting spots. Slight wind out of the south, so I made a bee line for the north end of the property to face southwest. Not a sound. Not a squirrel, not a deer. Only one other vehicle in the parking area and I never saw him. But I had my 12x50 with me and they are so valuable. You need them, especially in thickly wooded areas such as I have. Dialing back and forth you can go from near to far and see between the trees. Because often, you are not going to see an open shot with a broadside deer posing for a picture. You will see movement among the trees. Is that brown moving thing a dead leaf about to fall or is the the haunch of a buck? (The former.) Is that white a bit of tree pulp from a broken branch or is it an antler? (the former.) It is better for spotting game than the rifle scope for both the field of view aspect and the stereo vision effect. So, like other optics, get the best that you can afford and then use them. I did not get any deer but I did gain some useful experience and practiced my strategy. Now, I just need to find where the deer are. This are gets heavy pressure and the deer go on the surrounding private property (I have seen a doe in the area, last season, running across the road in front of me from one private property to another. Dang it. You can't shoot across a public road and for the public hunting property there, you have to have USFS permit for rifle doe hunt and I did not have that.)
Daddy long legs are sometimes called harvestmen. Not spiders but they are from the arachnid family. Description Most of us are familiar with the common, harmless, spiderlike “harvestman,” with its remarkably long, wiggly legs. We can easily see differences between harvestmen and spiders. The body is a simple oval, and it’s usually hard to tell where the “head” ends and the segmented “abdomen” begins. They also lack silk and venom glands, and they only have two eyes. Lacking silk glands, they never build webs. They lack venom, but they emit a weird odor when disturbed. Their chelicerae (mouthparts) are too small to bite people. Sometimes there are tiny yellow, orange, or red blobs stuck on the body or legs: These are mites parasitizing the harvestman.
Hey guys. Two years late - but I have a newbie question: Is the Viper line kind of obsolete in terms of performance for the buck? They are way more expensive than the Diamondback HD - however, the next big thing everyone is talking about is the Razor HD/UHD series. Here comes the thing: I get it - to understand the whole complex of glassing, you must start "somewhere" and gather experience. But the ranges get more and more nuanced, and this is really confusing for me as a customer. Diamondback HD, Viper, Razor HD, Razor UHD. This, pared with the all time "buy once, cry once" mentality, I'm honestly overwhelmed by the sheer variety. I'm from Switzerland. Swarovski are the go-to binos. (suuuuper expensive! though). But more and more young hunters are looking for that sweet spot of performance and price. Vortex is around, used by young hunters - this is why I even discovered you. But it's a very new brand to the Swiss market - no one really knows about it (or "wants" to know about it - because "Swarovski is the go-to bino.."). Long story short: Is the Diamondback HD Series the go-to option when it comes to great performance and a good price point? The jump from Diamondback HD to Razor HD is about USD 1'000,-
Personally, I'm sensitive to any kind of chromatic aberration. It's easiest to see, of course, with high contrast objects but the reality is that CA makes the whole image look less sharp and strains the eyes. It prevents you from looking comfortably for long periods of time. Because this is a vortex channel, I won't call out any names, but one should prioritize binoculars that have extra low dispersion/fluorite elements. So, I would find diamondback well below my expectations. However, there are binoculars out there for the same price or less with superior "glass."
I just mailed my first Vortex warranty request for my old diamondback binos today. I ve got several Vortex scopes and red dots but the diamondbacks were my only binos ... This past weekend we were out on a bear hunt and while heading back down the mountain, I put my pack, my bow and my binos in the back of my friends truck...I never lowered the tail gate to do it but at some point he did and then he forgot to lift it back up and I took off to get the last bit of gear at camp and my friend decided he was going to try to drive up to the other spot and wait for me there and in the process my pack, my bow and my Diamondbacks went for a unplanned trip down the side of the mountain. Binos blew up, bow blew up and pack was torn open. Its too bad the other two companies dont offer the same warranty haha. Gotta have some humor in a ... shit situation.
love the Vortex Diamond Backs. I have to say though, i had to get 2 pairs to get a good one, first 2 came with some questionable QC, the 3rd one its on its way so hopefully ill be good lol. Either way the brand is amazing, and honestly it happens.
I'm undecided between the Crossfire HD 8x42 and the Diamondback HD 8x42. I have the Crossfire HD 10x50 for wildlife viewing. I just can't decide between the two 8x42s. Not sure if I want to spend the extra $100.00. I would appreciate any opinions on this. Thank you.
Both are certainly great options! Our best recommendation would be to try and get them side by side for a comparison. The Diamondback HD line does have an improved optical system compared to the Crossfire HD which will give you better clarity, resolution, and low-light performance.
I was going to get 8x42 Diamondback HD but my neighbor who is a long time hunter recommended getting larger ones so I went with 12x50 diamondback HD. Mainly for eye comfort. We'll see if I think they are too big for me.
I picked these up a bit ago and they're awesome. Pair these Binos with a Viper scope and you're all set. Also......Ill donate 4 brand new KT mugs if we can get Ryan to talk about the OUTSTANDING 7mm Rem Mag 😉.
@@Vanbrusa South East USA. With our terrain there isn’t a need for more than 8x. I’ve handed mine to a bunch of buddies and sold them on 8x over 10x. Hunting, birding, tactical ops… 100% recommend the 8x42’s.
@@Vanbrusa Just bough 8x42 diamondbacks and I live in Ontario as well. Its the perfect bino for us brother. I even wear glasses and I can see through the bino no problem while wearing them, with a lot of other binos you can't do this because of small eye relief. The 8x42s have generous eye relief and it is life changing that I don't have to take off my glasses to look through them. Just a thought.
@@ronandrews2634 Hey I didn't know that, that would be a huge benefit since I wear glasses. And also I'm thinking the small & lightweight will mean I'm just picking them up and using them more. Oberservign more details, and leaving less scent. My comparison is a cheap 10x50 pair that I'm using now.
@@Vanbrusa I'm not sure what kind of hunting you do but where I'm hunting/scouting I don't see myself taking more than a 200 yard shot so I thought the 8x42 would be perfect, and they are. You will notice that the 8x will have the effect of being more "stable" than the 10x in your hand as the picture you are seeing wont be as "jumpy" with the natural shakiness of your hands . Just as he said in the podcast, think of yourself looking though a toilet paper roll vs looking through a paper towel roll, you can see more distance left to right with the toilet paper roll. I too also came from a cheap pair of 10x (10x32 in my case) and these are WAY better. Not to mention they come with a bino harness which is actually of decent quality and fits well. If you feel like you need the 10x again, the specs show that the 10x50 diamondbacks have the same eye relief as the 8x42s, you should be safe with glasses but it all depends how far you glasses sit from your eyes.
I wanted the 8x42 diamondbacks for birding but my place of employment only had the 10x42 and I could only justify the purchase with my employee discount. Every single vortex binocular they had available was 10x and I’m not sure why. I shoot nikon cameras and I originally bought the Nikon M5 8x42 but returned them due to an issue. I’m sure I’ll enjoy the 10x42 but I wonder if availability of 10x is part of what drives customers to them.
I’m a new proud owner of some 10x50 Vipers-awesome binoculars. Return on investment diminishes the more you spend like you said, I’m always fighting it in my audiophile hobby, and at work- I’m in tech, and it always wins even with endless pockets 😂😢.
Hey there, can you offer some advice? I recently lost a pair of Nikon's somewhere and have been researching replacement options. I decided to go with Vortex. I'm a LEO in the PNW and will be using the bino's for patrol and surveillance. I am initially leaning toward the Solo 8x36. I would appreciate any advice. Thanks.
@@VortexNation Thank-you. I had a pair of Minox 6.5x32's IF and they rocked for hunting in thicker timber. Don't know what happened to them, but I miss them. But do enjoy standard focusing units more other reasons.
Depends on what you're trying to do. Spotting animals might not make much of a differences, same with spotting racks, if you're trying to pick apart points or spot tiny birds, the extra 2x might make a little difference. I think size and weight would matter as much as magnification at that distance, some people find 10s more steady to hold in hand than 12s but off a tripod it won't matter
Hey James - there's really not a whole lot of difference except for where you have the eyecups turned to. Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-4VORTEX ext. 5 and ask for Mike and he can definitely chat with you :)
Pluto is smaller than our moon, I wouldn't consider it a planet either. Planet X doesnt exist because the telescope from which the theory came from was found to have a broken part. That part threw off the gravity calculation making it seem like there was an extra celestial body out there. That telescope was compared to all others and was the only outlier. Watch Star Talk with N.D. Tyson if you're interested.
@@Adamhawk1994 No. If Earth was the size of a basketball the moon would be the size of a tennis ball and Pluto would be a golf ball. The more you know 🌈⭐
Great discussion. But PLEASE as a native Southeastern Arizona hunter - it's pronounced "cows" deer - not "cooz." Respect the man who identified this sub species.
Please please please Vortex...stop with the BS. Swarovski Zeiss and Leca are top tier glass in that order and everybody knows it. Then comes the mid level and low level optics which is what Vortex is. Fact is, there are other glass makers out there at the same or better price than Vortex, Meopta, GPO, to name a couple. You are like Walmart catering to the masses, but people who know glass do not shop at a Walmart/Vortex the go to a store with better made merchandise. You are Camaro, Challenger, Corvette trying to compete with Porsche, Ferrari, and Lambourghini....not even close
Vortex Diamondbacks are overrated plain and simple by Vortex fanboys who love showing off the brand and nothing more. My Bushnell Engage EDX binoculars easily smoke the hell out of the Diamondbacks any day. People just buy the Vortex brand cause they automatically think the brand is synonymous with "high quality" when in reality Vortex quality varies from poor to decent depending on the model. Vortex simply inflates the price of their Made In China binoculars because they feel they have the manipulated and lied to customer base necessary that they feel they don't have to offer a lower price for their optics. As long as people are ignorant to believe that Vortex are better than anything else out there, the company will continue to offer overrated Made In China crap for a high price. No thanks, I'll stick to my Bushnell's any day which are high quality at a more reasonable price!
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I really respect Vortex and I love how they are on the common mans level. You guys have changed the game. There is no one on your level in terms of customer support and warranty. If you guys continue to honor your warranty and quality you have customers for life.
We truly do appreciate that - thanks for being a part of Vortex Nation! :)
Okay; quite a nice broadcast. I ordered the 10x50s while I listened. Thanks!
I just finished watching the podcast and ended up ordering a Diamondback HD 10x32.
Diamondback must be one of the best bang for buck products on the market.
Shout out from South Africa 🇿🇦
Just got my binoculars back today. Had to send a broken set for warranty work. Vortex couldn't repair so offered me multiple options to choose to make it right. Amazing, truly amazing company, customer service. All I own is vortex product and probably too much of it (wife gets angry). You guys have a customer for life. Thank you.
Good luck with all of your future returns. You’ll be doing a few.
Best discussion to understand the basics of binoculars I have seen to date, 2024
Love hearing the opinion of an expert that you guys brought in - a true professional ! Was a pleasure listening to him explain things :D
This is one of my favorite Vortex episodes!
I work at Cabela's and this information is so useful. Thanks Vortex!
Just finished listening to this episode. I still have my marine 7x50 - from my previous research (when I had a boat) it is supposed to be the optimal magnification that you can reasonably manage on a moving platform combined with a large objective lens for low -light performance. They're not compact, but definitely not massive, either. I feel like most of the use cases would apply to average hunting scenarios.
I’ve talked to Mike twice on the phone before purchasing optics from my local Sportsman’s Warehouse. Both times I was able to clinic the salesperson. Jim’s little blurbs on the other channel have sold me on better rings and tripod parts. I wouldn’t say I’m a fanboy, however, because I get a much better understanding of your product line I’m way more comfortable when I purchase. Thank You and keep it coming.
We certainly appreciate it, my friend! Thanks for being a part of Vortex Nation! :D
Recently I had cataract surgery in both eyes. It's like having new eyes. The Diamondback series is all I need.
Regarding ring systems:
*Typically* a ring system forms around a planet when a solid body in orbit breaks up into tiny little pieces for one reason or another. Because the thing is orbiting around the planet, the debris cloud flattens and thins out, just like a spinning pizza. Ring systems tend to decay and disappear as collisions between dust and particles in the ring knock individual pieces down into the planet. Almost certainly earth had a ring system when the moon was formed.
My wife and i have a bunch of vortex products best customer service of any company hands down
And the rumor is true - Jim is alive! We missed you, brother Jim. It is the witty banter you have with Mark. That is an act you could take on the road. "Who's on first?" "Third base? I don't know!"
Everytime Mike or Nick is on I think I'm listening to the actor Tom Wilkinson. episode 84 you guys did with Mike on binos is in my regular listening rotation. He's always fantastic
Just bought a pair of Diamondbacks,can't wait !
Had to have the cool Vortex hat also.
First time bino buyer
The experts statement about optical quality having a huge effect on brightness is demonstrated on the Leica 8x20 Ultravid compacts I am lucky enough to own a pair of. The image quality and brightness for such a small objective lens is astounding. They are tiny and enable me to carry them far more often than I do with any other of my binoculars (8x42 Nikon Monach M5 and 10x50 Steiner Safari) . It depends on how often you use them and what for. The reason I chose the Monarch M5’s over the M7’s is that although the M7 is definitely better, it’s also twice the price without being twice as good. If I was wealthy or used my binoculars much more often I would have either a pair of Leica 8x42 Noctivids or Swarovski EL 8.5x42 as they are probably the best optical quality you can buy.
I stopped taking binoculars in archery season this year and didn't miss them. Realistically the compacts are all you need for hunting woods.
Depending on the type of terrain you are in you can certainly use a small compact bino or rangefinder even and be just fine! For better details and further glassing distances, binos will definitely come in handy.
I loved my Diamondback 10x28s during summertime working in Alaska. Light collection wasn't an issue haha.
I gotta tell ya, I own a Diamondback HD 10x42, a Viper HD 10x42. a Viper HD 8x42, and just bought a Razor UHD 8x42. I have a pretty extensive photography background, and fully understand the benefits of quality glass. That being said, I REALLY have to look hard to see that much improvement between the Diamondback and the Razor. Don't get me wrong, the Razor UHD is a great piece of glass, but there is clearly an issue of diminishing returns. The Razor UHD is not giving me $1200 better views than my Diamondback HD. I literally had to compare all binoculars side by side against a resolution test pattern to prove that the UHD can resolve finer detail. When actually using them in the field, there is less chromatic aberration, color fringing, and better edge sharpness, but unless you are familiar with these things, you're not gonna notice it. Unless you're trying to see the sex of a gnat at 300 yards, save your money and get the Diamondback HD or the Viper HD. I love my Vortex Binos, and will be keeping the Razor UHD, but I can't honestly say they're worth the price of admission.
I would like to update the above comment. When I originally bought my Vipers, I had just bought an equal pair of Diamondback. I haven't really used the Diamondback much since getting the Vipers. This comment was made only a couple days after getting the Razor UHD, and I have since done a lot more comparisons in less than ideal conditions. The Razor UHD are definitely better. No doubt. They have more contrast and less internal flare than the others when it's dark and you're looking towards an object with a light slightlyout of view. The Razors are easier to use, as the eye relief "sweet spot" is perfect with the eye cups fully extended. My Viper and Diamondback have to have the eye cups on the 2nd or 3rd position, and I have to really press them against my nose to get the best view. That being said, I still feel there's a lot of diminishing returns, and many of these "issues" are only noticed when comparing them side by side. I would be perfectly happy with just my Vipers, but now they'll be the ones I let someone else use if they're birding with me
You have a lot to learn about optics. I bet you own a Sony camera.
@@billmoyer3254 I own a Nikon D3 and D300. For glass, I own Nikon (Nikkor) 300mm f/2.8, 70-200 f/2.8, a Nikon 24-70 f/2.8, Nikon 14-24 f/2.8 and an 85mm f/1.4 (aka the cream machine). So, you were saying?
This is good advertising listening to this in considering getting the 8x28 I really don't need them but nice to have a back up
So 3D and bow hunting in south Texas 8x42 or 10x42?
I got some 8x32 for hiking and birdwatching. The size is perfect 👌. Look up comparsions and youll see most people don't actually need 8x42
Some time ago, I decided for once to have some decent binocs. And I have been getting my Vortex stuff from Amazon, which has often been below MSRP. I would look at each model and see that, for just a bit more, you get a lot more value. So, I talked myself into cry once, buy once and that the Diamondback HD 12x50. Now, I see you have the 15x56. Anyway, so I have noticed that even amongst other people who like other brands of scopes and gear, many of them will recommend or own Vortex Diamondback binocs. I am already a Vortex fan boy but I think it is for a good reason. Quality, price, and warranty, the trifecta.
This last weekend, Saturday, out at my nearby (a smidge more than one hour) public hunting land, it was too hot, over 70 F by the time I found some good roosting spots. Slight wind out of the south, so I made a bee line for the north end of the property to face southwest. Not a sound. Not a squirrel, not a deer. Only one other vehicle in the parking area and I never saw him. But I had my 12x50 with me and they are so valuable.
You need them, especially in thickly wooded areas such as I have. Dialing back and forth you can go from near to far and see between the trees. Because often, you are not going to see an open shot with a broadside deer posing for a picture. You will see movement among the trees. Is that brown moving thing a dead leaf about to fall or is the the haunch of a buck? (The former.) Is that white a bit of tree pulp from a broken branch or is it an antler? (the former.) It is better for spotting game than the rifle scope for both the field of view aspect and the stereo vision effect.
So, like other optics, get the best that you can afford and then use them. I did not get any deer but I did gain some useful experience and practiced my strategy. Now, I just need to find where the deer are. This are gets heavy pressure and the deer go on the surrounding private property (I have seen a doe in the area, last season, running across the road in front of me from one private property to another. Dang it. You can't shoot across a public road and for the public hunting property there, you have to have USFS permit for rifle doe hunt and I did not have that.)
To Long ! !
@@thenov1944 That's what she said.
Daddy long legs are sometimes called harvestmen. Not spiders but they are from the arachnid family.
Description
Most of us are familiar with the common, harmless, spiderlike “harvestman,” with its remarkably long, wiggly legs. We can easily see differences between harvestmen and spiders. The body is a simple oval, and it’s usually hard to tell where the “head” ends and the segmented “abdomen” begins. They also lack silk and venom glands, and they only have two eyes. Lacking silk glands, they never build webs. They lack venom, but they emit a weird odor when disturbed. Their chelicerae (mouthparts) are too small to bite people. Sometimes there are tiny yellow, orange, or red blobs stuck on the body or legs: These are mites parasitizing the harvestman.
Hey guys. Two years late - but I have a newbie question: Is the Viper line kind of obsolete in terms of performance for the buck? They are way more expensive than the Diamondback HD - however, the next big thing everyone is talking about is the Razor HD/UHD series.
Here comes the thing: I get it - to understand the whole complex of glassing, you must start "somewhere" and gather experience. But the ranges get more and more nuanced, and this is really confusing for me as a customer. Diamondback HD, Viper, Razor HD, Razor UHD. This, pared with the all time "buy once, cry once" mentality, I'm honestly overwhelmed by the sheer variety.
I'm from Switzerland. Swarovski are the go-to binos. (suuuuper expensive! though). But more and more young hunters are looking for that sweet spot of performance and price. Vortex is around, used by young hunters - this is why I even discovered you. But it's a very new brand to the Swiss market - no one really knows about it (or "wants" to know about it - because "Swarovski is the go-to bino.."). Long story short: Is the Diamondback HD Series the go-to option when it comes to great performance and a good price point? The jump from Diamondback HD to Razor HD is about USD 1'000,-
Personally, I'm sensitive to any kind of chromatic aberration. It's easiest to see, of course, with high contrast objects but the reality is that CA makes the whole image look less sharp and strains the eyes. It prevents you from looking comfortably for long periods of time. Because this is a vortex channel, I won't call out any names, but one should prioritize binoculars that have extra low dispersion/fluorite elements. So, I would find diamondback well below my expectations. However, there are binoculars out there for the same price or less with superior "glass."
I just mailed my first Vortex warranty request for my old diamondback binos today. I ve got several Vortex scopes and red dots but the diamondbacks were my only binos ... This past weekend we were out on a bear hunt and while heading back down the mountain, I put my pack, my bow and my binos in the back of my friends truck...I never lowered the tail gate to do it but at some point he did and then he forgot to lift it back up and I took off to get the last bit of gear at camp and my friend decided he was going to try to drive up to the other spot and wait for me there and in the process my pack, my bow and my Diamondbacks went for a unplanned trip down the side of the mountain. Binos blew up, bow blew up and pack was torn open. Its too bad the other two companies dont offer the same warranty haha. Gotta have some humor in a ... shit situation.
finally watched this video. great video!
Any unstructured hats online? Like the brown one Mike is wearing?
love the Vortex Diamond Backs. I have to say though, i had to get 2 pairs to get a good one, first 2 came with some questionable QC, the 3rd one its on its way so hopefully ill be good lol. Either way the brand is amazing, and honestly it happens.
I'm undecided between the Crossfire HD 8x42 and the Diamondback HD 8x42. I have the Crossfire HD 10x50 for wildlife viewing. I just can't decide between the two 8x42s. Not sure if I want to spend the extra $100.00. I would appreciate any opinions on this. Thank you.
Both are certainly great options! Our best recommendation would be to try and get them side by side for a comparison. The Diamondback HD line does have an improved optical system compared to the Crossfire HD which will give you better clarity, resolution, and low-light performance.
I was going to get 8x42 Diamondback HD but my neighbor who is a long time hunter recommended getting larger ones so I went with 12x50 diamondback HD. Mainly for eye comfort. We'll see if I think they are too big for me.
Why eye comfort? What does that binocular afford that the 8x42 can’t, just curious
Cool that you guys invited Kevin Spacey on for the podcast 👌....lol
I picked these up a bit ago and they're awesome. Pair these Binos with a Viper scope and you're all set. Also......Ill donate 4 brand new KT mugs if we can get Ryan to talk about the OUTSTANDING 7mm Rem Mag 😉.
He may gag, possible throw up if he has to talk about 270 or 7mm again lol
I'm keen on a 7mm Rem Mag chat too.
He hates 7 Mag 😆.
Viper spotting scope or rifle?
@@fisherofmenmatt4194 Rifle scope. I haven't grabbed a spotter yet.
Have the Diamondback HD 8x42’s. Best bino’s I’ve ever owned. Use them for everything and for the price I’ve never found a better optic.
What kind of environments are you using them in? I'm thinking of getting that exact pair Ontario big woods whitetail hunting.
@@Vanbrusa South East USA. With our terrain there isn’t a need for more than 8x. I’ve handed mine to a bunch of buddies and sold them on 8x over 10x. Hunting, birding, tactical ops… 100% recommend the 8x42’s.
@@Vanbrusa Just bough 8x42 diamondbacks and I live in Ontario as well. Its the perfect bino for us brother. I even wear glasses and I can see through the bino no problem while wearing them, with a lot of other binos you can't do this because of small eye relief. The 8x42s have generous eye relief and it is life changing that I don't have to take off my glasses to look through them. Just a thought.
@@ronandrews2634 Hey I didn't know that, that would be a huge benefit since I wear glasses. And also I'm thinking the small & lightweight will mean I'm just picking them up and using them more. Oberservign more details, and leaving less scent. My comparison is a cheap 10x50 pair that I'm using now.
@@Vanbrusa I'm not sure what kind of hunting you do but where I'm hunting/scouting I don't see myself taking more than a 200 yard shot so I thought the 8x42 would be perfect, and they are. You will notice that the 8x will have the effect of being more "stable" than the 10x in your hand as the picture you are seeing wont be as "jumpy" with the natural shakiness of your hands . Just as he said in the podcast, think of yourself looking though a toilet paper roll vs looking through a paper towel roll, you can see more distance left to right with the toilet paper roll. I too also came from a cheap pair of 10x (10x32 in my case) and these are WAY better. Not to mention they come with a bino harness which is actually of decent quality and fits well. If you feel like you need the 10x again, the specs show that the 10x50 diamondbacks have the same eye relief as the 8x42s, you should be safe with glasses but it all depends how far you glasses sit from your eyes.
I know I really don't want to know but what am I going to see different going to vipers? I'm one of the guys that don't see the difference
How much of an improvement is the hd diamondbacks to the non hd diamondbacks.. they have a sell for 10x42 non hd diamondbacks for 129$
I wanted the 8x42 diamondbacks for birding but my place of employment only had the 10x42 and I could only justify the purchase with my employee discount. Every single vortex binocular they had available was 10x and I’m not sure why. I shoot nikon cameras and I originally bought the Nikon M5 8x42 but returned them due to an issue. I’m sure I’ll enjoy the 10x42 but I wonder if availability of 10x is part of what drives customers to them.
I absolutely love my 12x50s
Great video gentlemen! I just can't decide on the Diamondback or Viper, something about the Viper just has me drooling...lol
I have diamond and razor uhds and you can't honestly tell the difference apart from the razors are heavy.
Looooove my 15×56😘
I’m a new proud owner of some 10x50 Vipers-awesome binoculars. Return on investment diminishes the more you spend like you said, I’m always fighting it in my audiophile hobby, and at work- I’m in tech, and it always wins even with endless pockets 😂😢.
I see myself buying two more pairs of binoculars while I love my 10x50, I need a pair of 8x42 and a set of 8x32. Why one tool can not do all jobs.
I have 8 42 and 10 42 and 10 50 and 18 56 and I honestly don't bother with the compacts the viewers are terrible next to hand holding a 10 50
Hey there, can you offer some advice? I recently lost a pair of Nikon's somewhere and have been researching replacement options. I decided to go with Vortex. I'm a LEO in the PNW and will be using the bino's for patrol and surveillance. I am initially leaning toward the Solo 8x36. I would appreciate any advice. Thanks.
Disregard. I found my bino's and realized I need to move up to 10-12X magnification
Is there a diamondback with a mildot scale?
Do they make any porros?
Will Vortex ever bring back the 6x32’s???
There's no plans to at this time, but we'll definitely pass along that there is interest. We appreciate it, George!
I would buy a pair.
@@VortexNation Thank-you. I had a pair of Minox 6.5x32's IF and they rocked for hunting in thicker timber. Don't know what happened to them, but I miss them. But do enjoy standard focusing units more other reasons.
@@VortexNation I would buy a pair to hmu 🤙🏼
I decided to buy 12x50 Diamondback binoculars.
anyone have input for debating between 10x50 and 12x50? probably average distance of 300-500 yards of long duration observing.
Depends on what you're trying to do. Spotting animals might not make much of a differences, same with spotting racks, if you're trying to pick apart points or spot tiny birds, the extra 2x might make a little difference. I think size and weight would matter as much as magnification at that distance, some people find 10s more steady to hold in hand than 12s but off a tripod it won't matter
Hello Vortex! Like to hear about using binoculars with eyeglasses from Mike!
Hey James - there's really not a whole lot of difference except for where you have the eyecups turned to. Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-4VORTEX ext. 5 and ask for Mike and he can definitely chat with you :)
Pluto is smaller than our moon, I wouldn't consider it a planet either. Planet X doesnt exist because the telescope from which the theory came from was found to have a broken part. That part threw off the gravity calculation making it seem like there was an extra celestial body out there. That telescope was compared to all others and was the only outlier. Watch Star Talk with N.D. Tyson if you're interested.
Shut up
@@Adamhawk1994 No. If Earth was the size of a basketball the moon would be the size of a tennis ball and Pluto would be a golf ball. The more you know 🌈⭐
Athlon is kicking Vortex's arse in price, value, performance.
1st comment, 1st like. Score!!! Just bought a pair of these in 10 x 42 and they are great!!!!
Heck yeah - we appreciate that, my friend!
@@VortexNation I got the camp 10x42 diamondbacks I love them 😍
@@Adamhawk1994 Fantastic choice!
Of course the diamondback are HD now I bought mine 2 years ago no HD 😕
The guy in the green shirt is the only one who knows what he's talking about.
Mites are arachnids.
Make the ED glass
Interesting
If you are trying to get information on these diamondback binoculars, this is not the video. These guys are just bullshitting
Get Swarovski or Meostar for your bino
so you're saying the highest end brands are better then cheaper bins? No way! I never would have guessed
@@caseymoore2872 I have personally tested most of bino brands/lines in some hunting shows, now I own Cabelas Euro HD and Swaro NL
Great discussion. But PLEASE as a native Southeastern Arizona hunter - it's pronounced "cows" deer - not "cooz." Respect the man who identified this sub species.
Please please please Vortex...stop with the BS. Swarovski Zeiss and Leca are top tier glass in that order and everybody knows it. Then comes the mid level and low level optics which is what Vortex is. Fact is, there are other glass makers out there at the same or better price than Vortex, Meopta, GPO, to name a couple. You are like Walmart catering to the masses, but people who know glass do not shop at a Walmart/Vortex the go to a store with better made merchandise. You are Camaro, Challenger, Corvette trying to compete with Porsche, Ferrari, and Lambourghini....not even close
Vortex Diamondbacks are overrated plain and simple by Vortex fanboys who love showing off the brand and nothing more. My Bushnell Engage EDX binoculars easily smoke the hell out of the Diamondbacks any day. People just buy the Vortex brand cause they automatically think the brand is synonymous with "high quality" when in reality Vortex quality varies from poor to decent depending on the model. Vortex simply inflates the price of their Made In China binoculars because they feel they have the manipulated and lied to customer base necessary that they feel they don't have to offer a lower price for their optics. As long as people are ignorant to believe that Vortex are better than anything else out there, the company will continue to offer overrated Made In China crap for a high price. No thanks, I'll stick to my Bushnell's any day which are high quality at a more reasonable price!