Hunting binoculars come in different sizes and design. With each design and specifications comes specific applications, and in our article today, our focus will be on the best 10×42 binoculars for hunting that make an invaluable sighting tool for every ardent hunter out there.
From established brands like Nikon, Vortex and Zeiss, to the new upcoming ones, binoculars have evolved to become the go-to optic for hunters. This is attributed to their ease of use, versatility and portability. Binoculars are easy to carry in the hunting field together with other gear and simple to use for hunters of all levels.
Today, 10×42 is the most popular binocular size for hunting. 10x is a representation of the magnification power and 42 is the size of the objective lens in millimeters. With this configuration, 10×42 binoculars makes it easy for one to find game in open countryside settings over medium and long ranges.
What Makes a Great Binocular for Hunting?
The following design attributes make a great pair of binoculars for hunting:
Durable Construction
A great pair of binoculars for hunting should be built with the most durable materials to withstand the rough handling associated with hunting and last for a long period time.
Great Low Light Visibility
Hunting is best done in low light settings of dawn or dusk. A good binocular should therefore provide clear views of game when you are hunting in such environments.
Weatherproof Design
Another important attribute of the best 10×42 binoculars for hunting is weatherproof construction for uninterrupted performance in all weather conditions.
Lightweight Design
A good binocular for hunting should be lightweight. The more lightweight the binocular is, the easier it is to carry in the field together with other hunting gear.
Best 10×42 Binoculars for Hunting – Top Picks
The optics market is flooded with binoculars of different configurations but not all are ideal for hunting. Here is our selection of 10×42 binoculars suitable for hunting. Let’s take a look.
1) Steiner Predator Series 10×42 Hunting Binoculars
Steiner Predator Series 10×42 Binocular is by far the best 10×42 binoculars for hunting. It is specifically designed for hunting and brings to the table an array of superb features that you require to get the most out of your hunting expeditions.
From close range to long distances, this mid-size pair of binoculars delivers bright, crisp images rich in detail and color. This is made possible by the 42mm objective lens that optimizes performance even in low level light settings. On top of that, the binocular features a unique CAT game sensing lens coatings that reveals game hidden in cover.
Another feature that makes the binoculars stand out is durability. They are built with the most hard-wearing materials to last long. Moreover, the chassis is rubberized to be shock proof and to provide excellent grip, even with gloves.
In addition to the robust construction, the binocular is equipped with ergonomic rotation eyecups which enhance glassing comfort during use. Over and above that, it features a lightweight construction for easy portability in the field.
Features
- Rugged Makrolon housing
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- High-contrast optics
- Porro prism design
- Ergonomic silicone eyecups
- CAT game sensing lens coating
- Wheel free open bridge design
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to hold and use
- Great value for money
- Durable and reliable construction
Cons
- Slightly difficult to focus
2) Leica 10×42 Noctivid Binoculars
Leica is a brand that has built a name in the field of optics. It has an assortment of high-quality optics and the 10×42 Noctivid Binoculars are not any different. This binocular is designed with advanced technology and high-end features to provide bright, clear and color accurate images.
The phenomenal optical performance is attributed to the 42mm objective lens that maximizes light gathering ability. Additionally, the binocular has SCHOTT high transmission glass and anti-reflective lens coatings that work together to amplify optical clarity even in low light settings.
To complement the superb optical performance, this optic boasts a significantly large field of view to help you find game with ease and make detailed observation of each target no matter the distance.
Furthermore, this pair of binoculars is made with ease of use in mind. It has a dual-hinge design which provides additional gripping area while reducing the overall weight. Other than that, the chassis is made from strong magnesium alloy that promises durability without being heavy. It is also O-ring sealed, nitrogen purged and designed to perform for life.
Features
- Compact roof prism optical path
- SCHOTT high transmission glass
- Dirt and water repellent lens coating
- Slip resistant center focusing wheel
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Twist-up click-stop eyecups
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Dual-hinge, open-bridge design
- Protective rubber armor
- Durable magnesium chassis
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great glass quality
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Ease of use
Cons
- Costly
3) Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm Hunting Binoculars
Coming third in our list of the best 10×42 binoculars for hunting is Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm Binoculars. This pair of binoculars is lightweight for easy carrying in the hunting field and super easy to use for all hunters, including beginners.
It has a powerful 10x optical zoom to bring you closer to the action when pursuing game at extended ranges. On top of that, it boasts a large field of view of 113 at 1000m for quick target finding and easy monitoring of the mobile game.
The optical performance of this binoculars is exceptional. This is made possible by the large objective lens and ED glass elements which enhance resolution and optical clarity. The binocular also features fully multi-coated lenses which are responsible for ensuring high levels of light transmission.
Construction-wise, this set of binoculars is made to survive the hunt. It has a robust chassis that is wrapped with a rubber armor. The rubber armor not only provides a sure, non-slip grip in all conditions, but also provides extra shield from elements and shock. Furthermore, the binocular is fully waterproof, fog proof and dustproof for performance in all weather conditions.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Durable rubber armored body
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Anti-reflective lens coatings
- 10x optical zoom
Pros
- Lightweight
- Large field of view
- Affordable
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Fragile lens
4) Maven B1.2 42mm ED Binoculars
Next up, we have Maven B1.2 42mm ED Binoculars. This versatile pair of binoculars is ideal for all types of hunting. It excels in different hunting environments and is very comfortable on the hands during use.
The optical performance of this binocular is a force to reckon with. It employs state-of-the-art optics to help you discover what you have been missing. Besides, it is outfitted with Schmidt-Pechan prism optical path which ensures high levels of light transmission.
Portability is another facet that makes this binocular ideal for hunting. It is compact, lightweight and convenient to carry in the field. Furthermore, the binocular is fully waterproof, fog proof and dust proof to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature will have in store for your hunt.
In addition to everything else, the Maven B1.2 42mm ED Binoculars has a ruggedized construction that guarantees long-term durability.
Features
- Silky focus mechanism
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Schmidt-Pechan prism
- Top-tier glass elements
- Robust magnesium chassis
Pros
- Generous depth of field
- Versatile
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Superior low light performance
- Excellent picture quality
5) Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular
Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular is a high-performing sighting tool ideal for a wide range of applications including hunting. It serves up phenomenal views and unmatched optical performance in low light conditions of dawn and dusk for easy target identification.
The impressive optical clarity of this binocular is made possible by the fully multi-coated lenses which amplify light transmission and prevent internal loss of light through reflection. Other than that, the binocular features a large field of view to help you glass your surroundings efficiently and find your targets with ease.
Another thing that makes this roof prism binocular ideal for hunting is all-weather construction. It has a ruggedized body that is purged with nitrogen gas to prevent internal fog build up over a wide range of temperatures. Additionally, the binocular’s tubes are sealed to lock out moisture, dust and any other debris.
And that’s not all. The Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Binoculars have a rubber armor with thumb indents for secure, non-slip grip. It also brings to the table multi-position twist-up eyecups and right eye diopter both of which are convenience features.
Features
- Waterproof and argon purged
- Rubber armored body
- Sleek, short-hinge design
- Dielectric, fully multi-coated lenses
- Multi-position eyecups
- Center focus type
- Right eye diopter
Pros
- Large field of view
- Relatively lightweight
- Generous eye relief
- Budget-friendly
- Excellent picture quality
Cons
- Hard to focus
6) Leupold BX-5 Santiam HD Binoculars, 10×42
Leupold is a household name in the field of optics. It is known to manufacture top-grade optics and this is clear in the Leupold BX-5 Santiam HD Binoculars. Built with the avid hunters in mind, this pair of 10×42 binoculars will revolutionize how you hunt and make every hunting expedition more competitive.
The binocular is ideal for use in any lighting environment. It employs a Twilight Max HD Light System that ramps up light transmission and redefines performance in low light. This makes target finding easy in virtually all lighting conditions. Other than that, the binocular has a generous eye box which guarantees great glassing comfort, without fatigue.
Another facet that makes this optic one of the best 10×42 binoculars for hunting is spacious depth of field which not only aids in rapid target scanning, but also ensures that nothing is left undiscovered.
Construction-wise, the Leupold BX-5 Santiam HD Binoculars boast the legendary Leupold ruggedness. It has a durable aluminum housing shrouded in a rubber armor coating. It also boasts state-of-the-art waterproofing technology which guarantees interrupted use in all environments.
Features
- Superior optical design
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Durable aluminum body
- Guard-ion lens coatings
- Open-bridge, dual-hinge design
- Twilight Max HD Light System
- Rubber armored body
Pros
- Sufficient eye relief
- Superior low light performance
- Durable and reliable construction
- High-definition optical clarity
Cons
- The eyecups aren’t comfortable
7) Bushnell Engage X 10×42 Binoculars
Our last 10×42 binocular recommendation for hunting is Bushnell Engage X 10×42 Binoculars. It is purpose designed for hunting, but it is also ideal for a wide range of other outdoor adventure applications.
With the versatile 10×42 size, this binocular makes a handy companion for medium and long- range hunting. It will get you closer to the far away game and boost your shooting confidence in the challenging hunting scenarios.
Moreover, the binocular excels in all lighting and weather conditions. It has an IPX7 waterproof rating for use even in the harsh weather conditions. On top of that, the exterior lenses have an EXO barrier lens coating which repels dirt particles and moisture droplets to provide a clear, unobstructed field of view.
Optically, this set of binoculars has fully multi-coated lenses that offer exceptional clarity and image brightness from sunrise till sunset. Besides that, the diopter is adjustable to accommodate for any differences in your eyes and ensure great glassinf comfort
In addition to everything else, the Bushnell Engage X 10×42 Binocular comes with an ultra-smooth focus wheel to ensure speedy image focusing.
Features
- Adjustable diopter
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Hydrophobic EXO barrier lens coating
- Ultra-smooth focus system
- Rubber armored body
Pros
- Versatile
- Great value for the price
- Compact and lightweight
- Generous eye relief
- Very easy to use
Why 10x42mm Binoculars for Hunting?
10×42 is the best binocular configuration for hunting. Here are the benefits that come with using this size of binoculars for hunting.
- Spacious depth of field. 10×42 binoculars offer a spacious field of view which helps with quick scanning, finding and monitoring of the targets
- Ease of use. The 10x magnification is easy to use and hold steadily with one or both hands, without the need to use a tripod
- Long range glassing. The high 10x magnification power will bring you closer to the distant targets and guarantee great glassing comfort during the long hunting sessions
- Multi-functionality. Most of the best 10×42 binoculars for hunting are ideal for other outdoor adventure applications, besides hunting
Read Also
- 8 Best 7×50 Binoculars
- 8 Best Binoculars for Whitetail Hunting
- 7 Best Binoculars for Hunting in the Woods
- 8 Best Lightweight Binoculars for Hunting
Criteria for Choosing Best Hunting Binoculars
Picture Quality
Picture quality is the first and most important thing to consider when buying hunting binoculars. Generally, the type of glass the binocular is made with determine the quality of sight pictures it yields.
For the best 10×42 binoculars for hunting, go for a unit that uses ED, UHD or fluorite glass. These glass elements yield the best picture quality irrespective of the lighting or weather condition.
Lens Coatings
The second most important thing to take into consideration is lens coatings. The more layers of anti-reflective lens coatings a pair of binoculars has, the better. It will ramp up light transmission in the low-level light settings and alleviate glare. Quality lens coatings are also important in providing extra shield from scratches.
Weight
Weight in binoculars varies from one product to the other. Generally, the type of glass and material used to make the chassis affect the overall weight in binoculars.
We recommend that you get a pair of binoculars that is built light and durable. Lightweight binoculars are easy to carry in the field, as you pursue the game. They also the best for long hunting sessions as they alleviate hand and eye fatigue.
Build Quality
The next important thing to factor in is build quality. We recommend that you opt for binoculars whose chassis is made from either magnesium alloy or aircraft grade aluminum. Such binoculars are the best in terms of durability. The best 10×42 binoculars for hunting should also have a rubber armored body and dependable protection from weather elements.
Price
Last but not least, consider the price. The market of binoculars is diverse and so is the pricing. Whether you are buying your first pair of binoculars or not, ensure that you invest in a model that gives you the best value for money.
Final Words
10×42 binoculars are exceptional when it comes to hunting. Each of the binoculars we have mentioned above has all the important features you will need to turn your hunting expeditions into an extravaganza. They are versatile, durable and ideal for use in all hunting environments. Whichever model you end up purchasing, it is my hope that you have found this post to be of great help.