Elk hunting is a spectacular experience for any hunter, the majestic elk bulls move in herds. Mastering elk hunting requires years of experience and the right equipment.
As part of the experience, you need the best binoculars for elk hunting for you to track the elk bulls. Professional hunters stalk their prey using the best compact hunting binoculars to avoid startling or provoking them.
To acquire the best elk hunting binoculars should be easy if you know what to look for and where to find your accessory.
If you are looking for the best power binoculars, you should go ahead and look for other features such as clarity, waterproofness, efficiency, and sturdiness. Binoculars with good specs for distance and comfort are must-have gear for elk hunting.
The next time you go shopping for your elk hunting binoculars, this guide will help you consider the best binoculars for elk hunting that also give you the best hunting experience.
At the end of the review, you will know why Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular is our top pick. We included a buyer’s guide to help you know good binoculars for hunting elk and some top-rated binoculars for hunting.
- Top Pick:
- Binoculars For Elk Hunters Comparison Chart
- 5 Best Binoculars For Elk Hunters (January, 2022 Updated)
- Buying Guide – FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN PICKING BEST BINOCULARS FOR ELK HUNTING
- ELK HUNTING SEASONS
- SOME TIPS FOR ELK HUNTING
- Final Words
Top Pick:
VORTEX OPTICS DIAMONDBACK ROOF PRISM BINOCULAR
Key Features:
| Rubber armor |
| Adjustable eyecups |
| Water and fog proof |
| Fully multi-coated lenses |
As one of the best power binoculars for elk hunting, it is versatile, sleek, and professional, ideal for hunters and bird watchers. The lightweight of the gear makes it portable when you are on the trail, and you will never worry about water or fog formation around the lenses.
Diamondback took the name of a snake, so it is capable of increasing the amount of light for clear visibility early in the morning and late evening. Clear visibility in low light favors the hunters who seek elk in the morning and for bird watching.
A wide range of vision is possible through the 42mm roof prisms with a magnification power of up to 10X. Vortex Optics is famous for its outstanding warranties and excellent customer service that is given to Diamondback customers.
When you purchase the affordable Vortex Optics Diamondback binoculars, you will not spend more on accessories such as the protective carry case. You will also go home with a sturdy neck strap that gives you the option of freeing your hands for the perfect shot.
Binoculars For Elk Hunters Comparison Chart
5 Best Binoculars For Elk Hunters (January, 2022 Updated)
Our team has compiled a list of what we believe are the best binoculars for elk hunters.
Although we have only examined five models in this guide, we hope that the information we have provided will be useful to you when selecting binoculars for elk hunting.
1. VORTEX OPTICS DIAMONDBACK ROOF PRISM BINOCULAR Review
The vortex optics diamondback roof prism binocular is a popular binocular among hunters and outdoor explorers. If you are looking for optical performance at a manageable cost, Diamondback is your choice. The purchase comes with a lifetime warranty, and you will enjoy their excellent customer service.
The weight of the binocular is suitable for any hunting expedition or scouting trek. Enjoy a field of view of 345 feet or 1,000 yards for a quick sweep of the terrain. The runner grip is to make you comfortable, and thus, you will be handling one of the best elk hunting accessories in the market.
The objective lenses are fully multi-colored with phase prism correction allowing high light transmission enabling the production of clear images at any time of the day. Therefore, you will always use it at night, dawn, or dusk for vivid images.
The Argon gas purged binos has an O-ring sealing to make sure no disappointments for you in bad weather. The device is fog and waterproof giving the advantage of an all-weather hunting binocular. Glass wearers and the non-wearers enjoy good eye relief making it comfortable and one of the best rated elk hunting binoculars.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Water and fog proof | Lens covers become loose after constant use |
| For both glass wearers and non-wearers | Image clarity drops when far from the object |
| An extra-wide field of view | |
| Affordable price |
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
The VIP unconditional lifetime warranty gives you an opportunity of taking your product for repairs at no cost.
2. BUSHNELL LEGEND ULTRA HD ROOF PRISM BINOCULAR Review
A hunter with your experience requires the use of a high-performance outdoor experience you get from the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism Binoculars.
Going through the Bushnell legend ultra HD review, you can light up your day by picking the legend ultra-series. Its popularity is due to its low depression glass and the clear resolution on the field of view. The magnesium chassis makes it lighter and durable to carry a small weight of 22.5Oz.
On a rainy day, the rain guard will repel water from the already water repellent lens forming beads that scatter less light. You can experience this the same way R.J. Cunningham does when visiting the Colorado Parks for the hunting season.
The model boasts of good eye relief with a field of view of 340 feet at 1,000 yards giving you a 55% sweet spot. The binocular makes it possible to have a clear view of details at the center of view before blurring begins. That feature is matching its current price at the time of the review. One of the few binoculars you can use in low and robust light viewing.
The instant focus feature makes the product suitable for fast-moving elks in the hunting ground.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Fully weatherproof | Eyecups may become loose |
| Lifetime warranty | May break with poor handling |
| Lightweight and durable | |
| The optics are reliable |
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
Includes a soft microfiber carrying case, a small bag, and a neck strap.
3. VORTEX OPTICS VIPER HD ROOF PRISM BINOCULARS Review
Suppose your concern was about weight, while on a hunting expedition you would probably want to have the Vortex Optics Viper HD 10X42 hunting binoculars. The product is lighter than those in the same class are. Carry them anywhere regardless of the weather due to their all-weather classification. The argon sealing keeps oxygen out and prevents fogging. The binoculars have protection against tear and wear by being shock resistant.
The polycarbonate build of the Vortex Optics has robust rubber protection giving it a sturdy look. You can lock the diopter located on the right eyepiece. Enjoy a smooth focusing experience, which is even more comfortable when using the focus wheels. Your linear field of view using this product is 347 feet or 1,000 yards.
The XR lenses are multi-coated, enabling a high transmission favorable in low light conditions. The prisms are constructed using a dielectric phase coating that ensures your field of view is clear, shows true color, and has better resolution. With all the features and accessories, the Vortex Optic Viper HD 10X42 review qualifies the product as one of the best binoculars for elk hunting.
Winston Churchill never wasted an opportunity to use the Vortex Optics Viper HD 10X42 when looking at the elk hunting statistics.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Premium binoculars at affordable price | The eye relief is average |
| Weatherproof | Field of view not quite convincing |
| The exterior is sturdy and robust | |
| The glasses are HD |
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
The package comes with a rain guard, neck strap, tethered lens covers, a carrying case. The manufacturer gives its users a VIP unconditional lifetime warranty increasing your levels of confidence.
4. NIKON 7576 MONARCH 5 8X42 BINOCULAR Review
The Nixon Monarch 5 8X42 is one of the best binocular for elk hunting due to its versatility and field-tests results. Nikon has a reputation for its lenses and camera business and extends that to the Monarch 5 binoculars.
The binocular is light in weight with a medium size making handling easy for you. There is a non-slip grip on the sides to help you hold the product securely while zooming in on your prey. The outer rubber construction is rugged to prevent accidental slipping and moisture.
The binocular has slides rubber eyecups running along the central focus know. Nothing should worry you when hunting in the rain because the body is both water and fog proof. The objective lens has a diameter of 42mm, giving a field of view 288 feet or 1,000 yards.
The Nikon 7576 monarch 5, 8×42 binocular offer one of the best performances because of its clear and high-resolution images. You will enjoy its service in low light, and you can always carry it on any hunting ground.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| The optics is excellent using HD lens | The warranty is non-satisfactory |
| Weatherproof | Cost not pocket friendly |
| Compatibility with a tripod | |
| Best for eyeglass or sunglass wearers |
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
All Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8X42 reviews, show the binoculars as having a built-in premium extra-low dispersion (ED) glass for sharp images and a clear field of view.
5. REDFIELD REBEL 10X42MM BINOCULAR Review
The Redfield Rebel 10X42 Binocular is among the best when looking for elk hunting gear. The magnification lens is at 10X paired with a 42mm objective lens with a coating of BAK prisms. The outer wrap of the binocular is both water and fog proof to keep rain and sweat off your gear.
The aluminum roof prism body adds to the ergonomic feel of the binoculars and giving a more attractive camouflage suitable for a hunting experience. The Redfield is one of the rare new binoculars that users rates highly. In comparison with other binoculars, the Redfield Rebel has outstanding features that ensure your hunting stint is easy and comfortable through the lenses.
Some valuable features you will notice include nitrogen-filling, rubber-armored housing that makes the item a weather device. The binocular is effective, sturdy, and durable. Therefore, the right product that offers value for your money. The Redfield Rebel hunting binocular is what Jim Bridger uses to explore the lost art of elk hunting in the woods.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Shock and weatherproof | The weight on the package does not match the product weight |
| The armored aluminum body makes it lightweight | |
| Has a wide field of view of 65-degrees | |
| Multi-coated lenses offer true color views |
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
During one of the Redfield Rebel 10×42 reviews. You can see the wide range of view at 65-degrees. The aluminum body promises durability and enables you to hunt for elks for many years to come.
Buying Guide – FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN PICKING BEST BINOCULARS FOR ELK HUNTING
Reasons for hunting depend on whether you hunt for a living or enjoying the activity. To add on to the exciting experience of hunting down an elk, apart from having the best binoculars for elk hunting, you need to know some factors to consider before getting hold of the best elk hunting binoculars.
MAGNIFICATION:
The idea of bigger binoculars for hunting elk has been overtaken by technology. When you go hunting, what you need to prove is precision and how accurate your shot is. In translation, it means, a wider magnification leads to instability this also has a lot to do with the lens diameter. For a successful elk hunt, look for a pair that does not lose its stability after a tiresome trek.
PRISM TYPE:
When shopping for a new pair of binoculars, know the difference between roof (see Bushnell legend ultra HD roof prism binocular vortex optics diamondback review) and Porro prisms. For hunting an elk, look for a model with roof prisms because of their slim dimensions of the field of view. Roof prism binoculars are also light in weight in comparison to Porro prisms.
FIELD OF VIEW:
Some shops refer to it as FOV, which is an area you can see with the binos. Therefore a small FOV means a narrow area, whereas, high FOV means a large field of view. There is no standard FOV to use when hunting. You need to know that high FOV is for hunters who favor open spaces. However, spotting a fast-moving elk, you may not find a high FOV favorable.
EYE RELIEF:
Eye relief defines the distance between the lenses and your eyes. The position of your eye line determines if you will see the entire wide field view. Shadows may appear around the view when you put your eyes closer to the ocular lenses. Moving your eyes away from the lenses may bar you from having clear images, which is common with glass wearers. Twist up eyecups is the best for eye relief and as an eye glass wearer you don’t have to strain to get your focus on as a hunter.
IMAGE QUALITY:
It is every hunter’s dream to have a binocular that represents the true image from a distance. You may have to dig deeper in your pockets to purchase such powerful binoculars. However, the low-end binoculars may get you the clear picture but may fail you occasionally.
FOCUS TYPE:
You have a choice between using the center spotting or an individual eyepiece focus type of binocular. Professional hunters will go for the single eyepiece focus knob because of its convenience for long-distance.
WEATHERPROOF AND PROTECTIVE COATING:
A binocular with rubber armor are popular because of their durability and better handling. The rubber layer is also waterproof meaning you can use on a wet hunting day or when your hands are sweating from the forest heat.
Some binoculars are filled with helium or argon to prevent the formation of fog in the lenses when searching for elk on a rainy day.
BUDGET:
A perfect hunting binocular is something you buy once and use for many elk expeditions as possible. You pay a reasonable price for something durable, versatile and should last you for a long time. The money you spend on a binocular should match its technology and performance for the best Nikon binoculars for hunting are also well within the budget.
You have gone through factors to consider when looking for an excellent hunting binocular. All you have to do is create an appropriate budget.
OBJECTIVE LENS SIZE:
The weight of a binocular depends on the size of the objective lenses. If you are buying a portable bino, the lens size will influence your buying. There is an option of going for the larger ones, which tend to be heavy and let in more light compared to the smaller versions that keep away most light resulting in poor visibility.
RELATIVE BRIGHTNESS INDEX:
You determine the size of the aperture that will allow light to pass through to your eyes. You get the value by dividing the objective size lens by the magnification factor. The higher the value you get the more light you will be able to see.
OPTICAL COATINGS:
The lens coatings are additions to the glass surface to reduce reflection of light. The coatings help in controlling glare and light loss. Therefore, if you prefer a model with coated optics, it means at least one lens has an anti-reflective coating. Units with full coated and multicolored lenses fetch higher prices. Note that the better the coating, the more light will come into your field of view.
WEIGHT AND SIZE:
What size of binoculars for elk hunting? Regardless of how efficient a binocular is for hunting, if it is too heavy, it may bother you having it on long trails. Probably using compact binoculars may help in the decision to choose if you are always on a long chase in the wild.
ACCESSORIES:
You may not want to spend on purchasing more accessories if the binocular of choice already comes with them. Look for a good bargain that will give you value for money and offer the extra accessories as part of the package. Buying binocular accessories separately may be more expensive.
ELK HUNTING SEASONS
Every state or locality in the United States has unique programs that let property owners for elk hunting by the public as an effort to balance their population in the wild. The dates given may vary but fall within a particular season.
- Archers will hunt elks between September and October.
- Youths have an opportunity to sharpen their elk hunting adventures in mid October.
- The general season for elk hunting takes place in late October to late November.
NOTE: Before taking up the hunting trail, make sure your license is valid and works within the region you are in.
SOME TIPS FOR ELK HUNTING
Now you know how to choose the best elk hunting binoculars and the best hunting season. Follow these tips and become a pro.
- Be up to date with weather news before getting on an elk-hunting trail. Weather news keeps you updated and help in the preparation of any circumstances that may arise.
- The best hunting time for the elk is not early in the morning, as many believe, but midday when the sun is up there because they tend to be well fed and dizzy.
- Experienced hunters will look for elk trails they leave behind while grazing or walking on the snow. You may need to have a tracker with you to help you know precisely what clues elks leave behind in different terrains. You may use the trails to tell if the prey is looking for a place to chill, alert, or even relaxed.
- Beware of any changes that affect the hunting regulations in your locality. Do not forget to carry relevant licenses or permits when on a hunting trail.
- Always be fit and maintain an excellent shape that can allow you to run and save yourself because you may not be the only hunter around.
- Study the map surrounding the area early enough, so you do not get lost in the forest in the name of elk hunting.
- Have the best binoculars because hunting an elk requires spotting before aiming.
- Some of these resources will also help you in understanding the tips to be a great elk hunter.
Final Words
If you want a pick that will take you on a successful elk hunting experience, get hold of the review’s top pick, the Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular. However, that does not mean that the other choices cannot bring an elk home, study each feature, strengths, and weaknesses. Finally, let your budget guide you.
We hope that you have found the best binoculars for Elk hunting useful and the information will make going for your top choice hunting binocular easy. Through the things, you should look for, the buyer’s guide and ultimately elk-hunting tips. There is no reason for you not carrying that trophy home.
Thanks
Happy Hunting
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