Binocular strength??

[sandyut]

We are planning a big vacation next year with load of wildlife viewing. Need binoculars that are decent.

ChatGPT recommended some Vortex Diamondback 8X42. Does that sound like the right magnification? Seems like it may not be?? budget is well under $400. I need but a real camera as well for the trip...iPhone will not cut it at all for this.

 

[cpaysonc]

Wife has that exact pair and I have the 10x50. Can't go wrong with either in my opinion. Vortex itself is rock solid, love them.

 

[JLinza]

The Vortex Crossfire are much cheaper and still a quality optic. Plus you can get these in a 12x50.

https://www.cabelas.com/p/vortex-crossfire-hd-binoculars?ds_e=GOOGLE&ds_c=Cabelas%7CShopping%7CPMax%7CHunting%7CP2%7CNAud%7CGoogle%7CNMT&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20038500600&gclid=CjwKCAjwl4HXBhAjEiwAHlpWhPUP2ShGrtes67B0_QE5zrAA6slptIMsavnJfb_Ux4ST3gZahZJdVxoCwOEQAvD_BwE

 

[DRKsmoking]

I also like my 10 x 50 Bushnell for my reg use, and I find comfortable to use.

I have bigger ones that are not goood for long holding but good on a tipod.

 

[Winterrider]

I think the 8x42 would be perfect. I have a pair of 8x42 and use them way more than my 10x50. You have to be "extremely steady" ( almost need a rest or tripod ) to be able to see decent with the heavier magnification.

 

[BigW.]

That's a good size for walking all day. If you'll be in the car more often go bigger. That's how I'd decide. And I agree Vortex makes some good stuff.

 

[forktender]

Any of the Vortex 10x42
Or 10x50s would be perfect.
And they stand behind their products like no other.
Mine have been dropped only once by me, my wife is clumsy. And they either repaired or replaced them at least three times in the last 10 yrs at no cost.
If they aren't going to used for hours on end, these would be perfect Dave.

https://www.cabelas.com/p/vortex-crossfire-hd-binoculars-in-truetimber-strata-camo

If you're going ti be looking through them for extended hours at a time, buy the Vortex Vipers.

 

[Timber II]

I use 10x32’s for bowhunting but for a vacation where size is not an issue bigger is better. Vortex is a decent low cost bino

 

[Compulsive Smoker]

I’d put a plug in for the vortex diamondback! I have a pair and absolutely love them…

 

[crazymoon]

SU, No brand recommendation here but I cast a vote for the 10x50's.

 

[schlotz]

Hey Dave,

The budget for the binocs might be doable but get ready for the camera. The iphone won't do it (not surprising) but before you go spend serious money, it might be worth putting together what are the priorities you have for the trip along with what types of photos including location and wildlife you really want to capture. Be glad to help point you to some workable options.

 

[normanaj]

If they aren't going to used for hours on end, these would be perfect Dave.
https://www.cabelas.com/p/vortex-crossfire-hd-binoculars-in-truetimber-strata-camo

Just ordered these as my wife has been looking for something better than her cheapo Pentax pair that she got as a performance "reward" from work.

 

[Winterrider]

They should do the trick. Enjoy . . .!

 

[bigfurmn]

I have no clue but I can't wait to see your pictures. If they are half as good as your cooks, toss will be great.