Are you tired of searching for the best binoculars for long range shooting and coming out empty? We are here to help. In this post, we are going to take you through the best binoculars for long-range shooting available on the market. These binoculars make the best alternative to long-range scopes. They offer quality views of distant targets for accurate shot placement. Compared with long-range scopes, these binoculars are affordable and highly-effective as well.
With the market offering a multitude of long-range binoculars to choose from, finding the right pair can feel overwhelming especially for the first-time buyers. We have a detailed buying guide of 7 best binoculars for long-range shooting to help you choose right. Without wasting any more time, let’s get started.
Best Binoculars for Long-Range Shooting
1) Nikon Aculon A211 10-22×50 Zoom Binocular
The Nikon Aculon A211 10-22×50 Zoom Binocular is a top-notch long-range pair of binoculars suitable for multiple shooting activities. It packs an array of high-quality features at a price that’s easy on the wallet. Featuring a variable 10-22 zoom power, these binoculars are highly versatile. You can use them to shoot targets at either close or long ranges.
These binoculars feature unbeatable durability. They are well-made with high quality eco-safe materials to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions. They are also covered with a shock-absorbing rubber armored coating which enhances durability and gives you a secure, non-slip grip.
The binoculars offer impressive optical performance in different lighting situations. The lenses are multi-coated to provide bright and clear target views even in low-light conditions. The coating also protects the lens from scratches.
For added convenience, these binoculars provide a wide field of view even at the highest magnification setting. This helps you identify your targets with ease and enhance your shooting accuracy. They also feature slide eyecups which allow for snug viewing with or without eye glasses.
Features
- Durable rubber-armored coating
- Turn and slide rubber eyecups
- Smooth central focus knob
- Multicoated eco-glass lenses
- Versatile 10-22x magnification
Pros
- Multi-purpose application
- User friendly
- Lightweight
- Quality and affordable
- Non-slip grip
Cons
- No waterproof and fog proof features
- Bulky
2) Olympus Trooper 10×50 DPS I Binocular
When it comes to optical performance and durability, you can hardly go wrong with the Olympus Trooper 10×50 DPS I Binocular. Thanks to the 10x magnification, these binoculars are suitable for long-range shooting. Even at the highest magnification, they provide wide viewing angle which makes shooting of fast-moving targets easier.
Weighing about 1.88 pounds, the binoculars are fairly light and easy to carry around. You’ll have an easy time carrying it to the range and back. Plus, it comes with a comfortable neck strap for added convenience.
The optical performance of this unit is commendable. It features anti-reflective lens coating which minimizes light reflection and enhances light transmission. The result is bright and crisp clear target views even in dismal environments. Besides, the binoculars have UV rays protection to protect your eyes when shooting under broad daylight.
Overall, this is great quality optic ideal for multiple outdoor activities. It gives you great value for your hard-earned money.
Features
- Anti-reflective lens coating
- UV rays protection
- Rugged and durable housing
- Wide angle viewing
- High powered 10x magnification
Pros
- Multipurpose functionality
- Fast and easy focusing
- Secure, non-slip grip
- Lightweight
Cons
- Shaky images
3) Bushnell Proview 20×50 Wide Angle Binocular
If you are on a budget, the Bushnell Proview 20×50 Wide Angle Binoculars are your best binoculars for long-range shooting. This pair of binoculars has a massive 20x magnification which provides clear long-range target views.
The 50mm objective lens gathers adequate light to provide clear images views. Better yet, the optics are fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission and provide you with brilliant, vivid and sharp target views. This feature makes them great for shooting targets in low-light conditions.
The binoculars are built to handle anything thrown to them. They are well-made with sturdy and high-quality materials to ensure many years of field use. They also feature a shock-absorbing rubber armor which enhances durability and gives you a firm, non-slip grasp in all weather conditions.
Another notable feature that these binoculars have is the wide field of view. This gives you great image views even at the highest magnification setting. Moreover, the binoculars are tripod mountable. If you want to achieve better stability and enjoy hand-free shooting, you could make use of the tripod.
Overall, this is an excellent optic suitable for multiple outdoor activities. It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Features
- BK-7 prism glass
- Sturdy and durable housing
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Wide field of view
- Center focus
- Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Cheap
- Bright and clear images
- Lightweight
- Multiple accessories included
- Ergonomic non-slip grip
Cons
- No built-in weatherproofing
4) Vortex Optics Kaibab HD Binoculars
If you are a seasoned shooter looking to take your shooting skills to the next level, the Vortex Optics Kaibab HD Binoculars are your best option. These high-end binoculars provide great long-range accuracy. They are user-friendly and highly efficient.
These binoculars boast a versatile 18x magnification suitable for long-range viewing and a large 56mm objective lens which makes them suitable for different lighting situations. A combination of these two features makes it a great optic for shooting long-range targets.
Featuring high-quality optics, the binoculars deliver impressive optical performance. The extra-low dispersion optics are fully multi-coated to minimize light reflection and optimize light transmission. This results to production of is brilliant, vivid and color accurate target views even in dismal environments.
In terms of construction, the Kaibab HD Binoculars are sturdily made to ensure long-lasting durability. They have a shock absorbing rubber armor which enhances durability and gives you a non-slip grip. The exterior lenses are also coated with a Armortek coating which offers protection against scratches and keeps the lens free of dirt, oil and fingerprints. The binoculars are also waterproof and fog proof so you can use them in any weather condition.
More importantly, the binoculars have multi-position eyecups that twist up and down and provide a customized eye relief. This makes them ideal for all users even those who put on eyeglasses.
Features
- Fully multicoated lenses
- Versatile 18x magnification
- Durable, non-slip rubber armor covering
- Ultra-hard Armortek lens coating
- Multi-position eyecups
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Smooth center focus wheel
Pros
- Fairly light
- Rugged and durable housing
- Excellent optical performance
- Numerous accessories included
Cons
- Expensive but worth it
5) Pentax SP 20×60 Binoculars
The Pentax SP 20×60 Binoculars is another quality pair of binoculars for people on a budget. Although this pair of binoculars is reasonably affordable, it doesn’t compromise on its quality. It is well-made to provide great optical performance and ensure great value for money.
Featuring a rigid body construction, the binoculars maintain the perfect optical alignment. This enhances long-lasting durability and provides comfortable viewing all the time. The binoculars are fully waterproof and fog free so you can use them in extreme weather conditions. They are nitrogen filled prevent internal fogging usually caused by extreme changes in humidity and temperature.
When it comes to the optical features, the large 60mm objective lens gathers optimum light needed for bright images. The lenses feature high quality multi-layer coatings which provide bright and crisp image views under different lighting situations. Besides, the exterior of the lens is coated with a special protective coating which repels dust, water and grease to provide you with clear views all through.
Overall, this is a decent pair of long-range binoculars to have. You can use them for other outdoor activities such as hunting and astronomy, not just shooting.
Features
- Fully multicoated lenses
- Fog proof and water resistant
- Rigid body construction
- Suitable for different lighting conditions
- Special protective lens coating
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Ideal for multiple outdoor activities
- Best budget option
- Smooth focus adjustment
- Superb low light performance
Cons
- No tripod adapter
6) Celestron SkyMaster 15-35×70 Zoom Binocular
The Celestron SkyMaster 15-35×70 Zoom Binocular is an excellent pair of binoculars suitable for both close and long-range shooting. With the variable magnification range, you can start low and zoom in for close-up targets, then switch to the highest magnification setting when shooting long-range targets.
The binoculars boast robust construction to stand-up to anything thrown at them. They feature a rugged, armored exterior coating which absorbs shock for added durability. The coating also provides secure, non-slip grip when shooting in wet conditions.
The optics are multi-coated to provide bright, clear and true-to-life images. Furthermore, the binoculars feature high quality BaK-4 prisms which enhance light transmission when shooting in low light conditions.
For added convenience, the binocular is lightweight and comfortable to carry for long hours. It also has a long eye relief which provides fatigue-free viewing during long viewing sessions.
Features
- Multicoated optics
- Water resistant
- Tripod adapter included
- Rugged, armored exterior
- High quality BaK-4 prisms
- Convenient zoom control
- Variable zoom range
Pros
- Eyeglass friendly
- Budget conscious
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Numerous accessories included
- Easy to use
Cons
- Unsuitable for use in broad daylight
7) Vortex Optics Razor UHD Binoculars 12×50
Last but certainly not least is the Vortex Optics Razor UHD Binoculars 12×50. This pair of binoculars is renowned for its incredible accuracy when shooting long-range targets. It provides state-of-the-art image resolution for superior image clarity.
Featuring a magnesium chassis design, the binoculars strikes the perfect balance between low weight and durability. The true open hinge design provides comfortable ergonomics, while the rubber armor coating provides an ultra-firm grip.
For superb optical performance, the unit has index matched lenses which correct color across the whole visual spectrum. It also features top notch anti-reflective coatings on every air-to-glass surface for optimum light transmission and minimal light reflection. This provides bright and clear target views even in low light situations.
Like any other Vortex optic, these binoculars are O-ring sealed to lock out moisture and dirt, and argon purged to prevent internal fogging. You can use them under any weather condition and they will still be reliable.
At only 3 pounds, the unit is fairly heavy compared with other products on the list. However, it comes with a tripod adapter so you can mount it on a tripod and enjoy comfortable, hands-free shooting. The binoculars are also eyeglass-friendly. They have twist-up eyecups which provide customized eye relief.
Features
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Tripod adapter included
- Eyeglass-friendly
- Shock absorbing rubber armor
- High quality anti-reflective lens coatings
- Lightweight yet durable magnesium chassis housing
Pros
- Easy to use
- Secure, non-slip grip
- Light and easy to carry
- Scratch proof Armortek lens coating
Cons
- Costly
See Also
How to Choose the Best Binoculars for Long-Range Shooting
Whenever you are on the market for the best binoculars for long-range shooting, here are some of the important factors you should look out for.
Magnification
You are going to need a pair of binoculars with powerful magnification for you to make accurate long-range shots. Generally, you’ll need at least 10x, but you can go up to 20x or 30x if you want. The main drawback of adding more magnification is that you reduce the brightness of the images you are shooting. Look for a unit with outstanding low-light performance if you don’t want to sacrifice on magnification and image brightness.
Type of Lens
Binoculars have different types of lens. If you want to have excellent image resolution with no image distortion, avoid any binoculars whose lens is not made with glass. Try to look for binoculars with extra-low dispersion lenses. Such lenses correct chromatic aberration to deliver bright, clear and true-to-life images.
Eye Relief
The amount of eye relief found in binoculars for long-range shooting varies from one model to the other. Eye relief refers to the maximum distance between your eye and the eyepiece where you can have a full view of the targets you are shooting. The longer the eye relief the better, especially for those who wear eye glasses. Most binoculars have adjustable eyecups. You can easily customize the eye relief and make the binoculars user-friendly even when you are wearing your eyeglasses.
Field of View
The other important factor to consider is the field of view. This refers to the maximum visible area that you can see without having to move the binoculars around.
Measured in feet per 100 yards, the field of view of any binoculars gets smaller with increase in magnification. With long-range shooting binoculars, it’s difficult to find a unit with a wide field of view. In most cases, you’ll find that binoculars with wide field of view are expensive. So be prepared to pay more for any binoculars that provide a wide field of view.
If you wear eyeglasses, you should know that binoculars with a wide field of view usually have a shorter eye relief, so they may not be the best choice.
Durability
The type of material used to make the binoculars determines their overall durability. Low quality binoculars are made of plastic which makes them less durable. If you are looking for high quality long-range binoculars, try to look for a units made of either aluminum or metal alloys. The binoculars should also have a rubber armoring which offers protection from drops and impacts. They should also be water-resistant and fog proof to ensure all-weather reliability.
Weight
Look for a pair of binoculars that’s lightweight and easy to carry around. With such a product, you’ll have an easy time carrying it to the shooting range and back. Lightweight binoculars are also easy to use and comfortable to hold for long hours.
FAQs about the Best Binoculars for Long-Range Shooting
- What should I look for in the best binoculars for long-range shooting?
Magnification and objective lens. You’ll need a pair of binoculars with a high magnification power of at least 10x. This will help you magnify objects that are so far to be seen clearly with naked eyes. You’ll also need a large objective lens to ensure optimum light collection for bright and clear image views.
- How far can you see with a 10×50 binoculars?
A 10×50 binoculars is ideal for long range viewing/shooting. It allows you to have clear views of targets which are as far as 12 miles way.
- What is the best magnification for long-range binoculars?
It depends on the activity you are engaging yourself in. Generally, binoculars with 10x-20x are ideal for long-range shooting.
Conclusion
I hope that this review helps you make the right buying decision. All the binoculars reviewed above are high-powered and great for long-range shooting. They are durably made to ensure many years of field performance. They are also multi-purpose so you can use them for other outdoor activities, not just long-range shooting.