• 2 DAYS LEFT: This Target Haunts Me Contest

    Tell us about the one that got away, the flier that ruined your group, the zero that drifted, the shot you still see when you close your eyes. Winner will receive a free scope!

    Join contest

Rifle Scopes Best hunting binos under $500

Crotalus

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Feb 4, 2008
148
12
38
Santa Rosa, Ca
Ok, deer season is fast approaching and I need some new binos bad! Money is kind of tight right now so I'm limiting myself to under $500 said and done.

so far my top prospects are:

Zen Ray ED3
Vortex talons
vortex vulture
Nikon monarch 5
leupold mojave

sticking to the 10x42-50 size

I'm no expert in binoculars, like I know some of you guys are. If you have any wisdom, help me choose.

Thanks
eric
 
Re: Best hunting binos under $500

forgot to take into account bang for buck factor. Example; cheaper binos in 250-300 that are a better VALUE than say a pair in the 350-450 range. (vortex diamond backs vs talons) (mojaves vs cascades) examples. Right now, the less I spend the better. However I don't want to buy cheapos and have to replace them next year, so I am willing to spend up to 500 if need be.
 
Re: Best hunting binos under $500

I am extremely pleased with my Nikon Monarch 8.5x56
Bill Wilson turned me onto them hog hunting a few years ago

I have S&B, Zeiss, USO, etc.. for scopes and the Monarchs have outstanding clarity and resolution and are very good in VERY low light
 
Re: Best hunting binos under $500

I was using a set of Minox 10x42 for a few years and was very happy. The clarity and color was very good for hunting. But, last year I contacted Liberty Optics and got a set of Vortex Viper HD 10x50. The Vortex are AMAZING with the clarity, light distribution, and color image. Very large improvement for just over $500. Call Scott at Liberty and see what he can do or what he recommends to you for your price range.