The Best 8x42 Binoculars For Hunting Of 2024: Best Picks & Buying Guides

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Best 8x42 Binoculars For Hunting
Best 8x42 Binoculars For Hunting

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars

Get the complete experience with the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars. With fully multi-coated lenses that increase light transmission, anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, and a dielectric coating to protect exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt; this binocular provides you with a powerful performance in an easy-to-carry package. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Celestron – Outland X 8x42 Binoculars – Waterproof & Fogproof

The Outland X binoculars are built for the outdoors. Celestron has created a durable, waterproof, and fog-resistant binocular with a rugged exterior and an anti-slip rubber covering. The included protective pouch keeps the binoculars safe from all outdoor elements while providing a secure and comfortable grip. Read Review

3. Best Performance: Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 8x42 Binoculars

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 8x42 is a lightweight, compact, and versatile pair of binoculars that are perfect for birding, hunting, hiking, or other outdoor activity. The rubber armor on the body offers a secure grip and external protection in case of accidental drops and it is also tripod adaptable to allow you to use these binoculars on a tripod or car window mount. Read Review

4. Best Safety: Athlon Optics Midas 8x42 ED Binoculars for Adults and Kids

The Athlon Midas 8x42 ED binoculars are the perfect choice for birders and nature lovers. The extra-low dispersion glass objectives eliminate chromatic aberration, and the dielectric lens coating and phase correct design ensure a crisp image in any light. Read Review

Hunting in the dark can be a very frightening experience. Even the most experienced hunters can feel apprehensive when the sun sets and darkness envelops the surrounding areas. As such, it’s essential that you equip yourself with binoculars that are able to penetrate deep into blackness so as to grant you with a sense of confidence on any hunting expedition.

Hunting in confined spaces, for instance, is something that will be more challenging for you than it should be. This is because an increasing number of animals are moving toward populated areas these days, thereby making it more difficult for you to find or encounter them. As such, finding the best 8x42 binoculars for your next hunting expedition will require some serious research.

Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars, which we hope will meet your demands. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a full buyer's guide and a number of different options are available to help you find the most suitable.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars
Our Score:
9.9
Vortex
  • Rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. Binoculars are tripod adaptable allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.
  • Adjustable eyecups twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. Center focus wheel adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time. Diopter (located on right eyepiece) adjusts for differences in a user's eyes.
  • Argon purging and o-ring seals provide water and fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact. Includes GlassPak harness.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Dielectric coating provides bright, clear, color-accurate images. Armortek coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
  • 8x magnification & 42mm objective lenses, these Diamondback HD binos are optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, sharpness and light transmission.
  • PROTECTIVE RUBBER COVERING: Our binocular is both durable and well-armored; its rugged exterior ensures protection from all outdoor elements while providing a secure, anti-slip gripping surface. The Outland X is also a great birdwatching binocular
  • MULTI-COATED OPTICS AND BaK-4 PRISMS: Multi-coated optics help obtain high resolution and high contrast views, while the prisms made of BaK-4 glass will give you enhanced color fidelity. Enjoy crisp, detailed views and dependable performance with our Outland X all-around binocular
  • TWIST-UP EYECUPS FOR QUICK ADJUSTMENT: Large focus knobs make for easy and precise focusing, and twist-up eyecups allow for quick adjustment of eye relief to obtain a full field of view. Eyecups can be easily positioned for use with or without eyeglasses
  • WATERPROOF AND FOGPROOF: Designed to withstand all weather conditions, our Outland X compact binoculars have been filled and sealed with dry nitrogen gas for rigorous outdoor use without internal fogging of the lenses
TOP Choice #3 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 8x42 Binoculars
Our Score:
9.6
Vortex
  • Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Roof prism design is valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
  • 8x magnification & 42mm objective lenses, these Crossfire HD binos are optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission.
  • Nitrogen purging and o-ring seals provide water and fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Roof prism design is valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
  • Rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. Binoculars are tripod adaptable allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.
  • Extra-Low Dispersion Glass Objectives
  • Broadband Fully Multi-Coated Optics
  • Compact BAK4 Roof Prisms
  • Protective XPL Exterior Lens Coatings
  • Dielectric Coated and Phase Corrected
5 Nikon PROSTAFF 3S 8x42
Our Score:
9.3
Nikon
  • High-reflectivity silver-alloy mirror coatings for a bright and clear view
  • Water Proof and Fogproof
  • Multilayer-coated kenses for brighter images
  • Turn-and-slide rubber multi-click eyecups
  • Argon purging and o-ring seals provide a lifetime of waterproof and fogproof performance. Ultra-hard, scratch resistant armortek protects the exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt.
  • A locking, right-eye diopter tailors each barrels' focus to your eyes. The smooth, center focus wheel provides fine focus control and quick sharp views. Twist-up eyecups rest comfortably against the face and provide customized eye relief.
  • 8x magnification and 42mm objective lenses, the 2018 Viper HD is a high-end, full-size yet compact binocular that is suited for any hunt. An easy-to-grip, rubber armored chasis with perfectly placed thumb indents provides superior ergonomics.
  • In the field, you should have no trouble reaching them at a moment’s notice with the included GlassPak Chest Harness providing comfortable, protected, strain-free, all-day carry.Field of View:409 feet @ 1000 yd / 135.8 m @ 1000 m
  • A high density optical system delivers exeptional resolution and edge to edge clarity. XR anti-relfective lens coatings give bright, full views even in low light situations.
  • Extensive adaptability. The rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. These models are tripod adaptable allowing use on any tripod or car window mount. So they're a great match for everyone from beginners to mid-range outdoors and birding enthusiasts.
  • Elaborate eyecups design. The twist-up eye reliefs of the configuration block stray light completely. This elaborate design allows you to get close enough for comfort. Also, it is excellent for the eyeglass-wearing user to see the full field of view.
  • Wide field of view. 8x magnification with a viewing field of 362ft @1,093 yards provides a wide-open look so that you can stand in far-off places to enjoy the view without the shaking problem. With these binoculars for bird watching or hunting, you won't be bound to miss the fast-moving birds through the leaves.
  • Waterproof and fogproof. Over 200 times 9.84 feet of underwater tested, and the result was -- without any penetration. Therefore, incorporating IPX6 means these binoculars are ready to take on the nastiest conditions and the roughest elements.
  • Sharp image. Spikex HD optical system includes high-definition glass, fully-multi lens coatings, and phase-coated BAK-4 prisms to deliver clarity and lifelike images. Another benefit is seeing everything at night as long as the target has a weak light source.
  • Predator Diamond Coating added to HD glass generates superior light transmission, high contrast and high-definition imaging
  • The 8x magnification offers a huge field of view and a bright, high definition image; Ideal for finding and following game through dense timber, especially in low light situations
  • Fast-Close-Focus technology uses a central focusing wheel that requires minimal rotation for quick absolute sharpness from close-up to infinity; Laser texture provides a secure grip, making these binoculars ideal for hunting or any outdoor excursion
  • HERITAGE WARRANTY: We stand behind our products, Period. We will repair/replace defective products at no charge for the lifetime of the product; Warranty does not cover damage, loss or theft
  • Offers a compact, lightweight design while providing the ruggedness and durability you've come to expect from Steiner
  • Lifetime Warranty: Athlon will also repair or replace, at no charge to you, your product if you should damage it through normal use. No receipt needed, no registration required. This is a commitment that Athlon will be the best product you can buy for your money.
  • Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses gives you better light transmission to bring optimum brightness and true color across the entire light spectrum.
  • Sport type: Hunting, Sporting and outdoor events
  • Uhd glass: Gives you an advantage with an image that has little or no chromatic fringe for the clearest and sharpest image.
  • Esp dielectric coating: Reflects over 99% of the light to your eyes bringing you a clear, bright image and accurate color reproduction.
  • Included components: Cleaning cloth
  • Xpl coating: Extra protection on the exterior lenses to prevent the scope from enduring dirt, oil, and potential scratches.
  • XPL Coating gives you an extra protection on the exterior lenses from dirt, oil and scratches
10 NIKON Monarch M5 8x42
Our Score:
8.6
Nikon
  • Nikon’s Legendary ED (Extra-low Dispersion)Glass Lenses
  • Flip-down objective lens covers
  • Sophisticated rubber armored exterior design provides shock resistance and a firm comfortable grip
  • Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3ft for 10 minutes) and nitrogen-purged for fog-free performance
  • Locking diopter control maintains your personal setting

What to Look for When Selecting best 8x42 binoculars for hunting?

There are numerous factors for customers to consider whenever they decide to buy a best 8x42 binoculars for hunting. Simultaneously, it comes with many product types and brands, which makes it difficult for you to choose yourself. Thus, we are here to give you support, guidance, and solutions to these problems. Our buying guide will highlight some most outstanding features related to the best 8x42 binoculars for hunting of 2024.

Nowadays, the number of technology sale networks, especially websites, sale forums, or even the online space for customers’ comments, has been dramatically increased. So, you can quickly obtain information on best 8x42 binoculars for hunting available on these sources. 

Along with reading the update of best 8x42 binoculars for hunting on famous websites, you are also expected to go through some needed things below to make a great decision.

Field Of View

It is important to have a wide field of view. Binocular viewing will be easier if there is a large field of view. You will see more of the object and less shaking. If a field of vision is 300 feet at 1,000 yards or greater, it's a sign that a binocular can be used for hunting.

Quality

When choosing binoculars that are best for hunting, quality is the most important factor. While there's a direct correlation between price and quality, it doesn't mean you have to pay a lot to buy high-quality binoculars. Sticking with a top brand is one way to ensure quality.

Objective Lens Size

Because it provides an indication of the performance of your binocular in low light settings such as dawn or dusk or areas with wooded terrain, you should consider how large the objective lens is. For those who want to have excellent low-light performance, a 42mm objective lens will be the best choice.

Magnification

The magnification of a binocular will tell you how large an object appears within its optical lens. An 8x binocular can magnify objects 8 times more than what they are in reality. A 10x magnification can give you more scope with your binoculars.

Ruggedness

Rubber coatings are a common feature on high-quality binoculars designed for hunting. Rubber coating protects your binoculars from being dropped or hit by something. The rubber coating provides a secure grip even in damp conditions.
Your binoculars are always banging on your head. Consider the last time that you rode up a tree with your climbing tree stand. You're likely to have smashed your binoculars once in a while.
We have to admit that even though they are kept in your pack, their bodies can take some beatings.

Lens Coating

Many binocular lenses have a coating that enhances or protects the lens. A binocular with fully multi-coated lenses is a must. You may find a special coating on some binoculars, such as an anti-scratch or water repellent coating.

Eye Relief

The distance between the eyepiece and your eyes is the best way to see the full picture. This distance is called eye relief and it's a helpful measure for those who use glasses. A 15mm eye relief or greater allows glasses wearers enough room to see the entire image through the ocular lenses.

FAQs

What Is The Best Binocular Magnification For Hunting?

It is better to hunt in areas with few lines of sight and a magnification of at least 8x-10x. This will allow you to locate your target easier and provide more detail than is necessary. It may prove more advantageous to use a magnification of 12x, 15x, or even 20x when hunting vast areas. This depends on the distance you are looking. A tripod is a good option, as a tripod can help you stabilize your hand when shaking.

What Are The Best Binocular Numbers?

Two numbers are found on every binocular. One is magnification. This is how many times an image has been magnified. Second, the dimension of the objective lens in millimeters. When you view a binocular through it, the objective lens will be the largest lens. The larger objective lens points towards your target, so the better light and details enter the eye. This formula gives an 8x32 binocular with a 32mm objective and 8-times magnification.

Here are some more details if you still have questions about what numbers mean on binoculars. The numbers are usually larger, which means that the binocular's optical performance is greater. However, they also indicate the size of the object. A 6-x24 binocular can be carried in your shirt pocket. The 15x56 binocular, however, can be difficult to carry in one's hand. Hunting requires a compact binocular with enough power to view distant objects, but not too heavy to transport. A binocular with 8-10 power behind a 32-42mm lens is the best choice for hunters. Look for models that have these numbers, such as 8x32,8x42 or 10x42. Or, for light-gathering abilities, look for 10x50.

What Should I Look For When Buying Binoculars?

You should look for binoculars with fully multi-coated lenses. Multi-coated lenses are those that have multiple coatings on all surfaces to improve light transmission and reduce glare. This protects the lens against chipping or scratching. To prevent internal fogging, you should make sure the binoculars have been waterproofed.

What Can Moisture Do To My Binoculars?

Although rust is the most common problem, it is quite rare. Most often, moisture will affect your binoculars by causing slowed joints or gunk in them. This can make it difficult to focus or adjust the zoom. You can easily treat this by brushing your binoculars' crevices with any type of oil such as WD-40, gun oil or other mechanical oil. Extreme cases can lead to moisture getting into the lenses of your binoculars, which could cause a problem with a component or even a complete loss.

Most good binoculars come with seals that prevent water or condensation getting into the lenses. It can also be an issue with cheaper binoculars. Binocs can be killed by condensation within the line of sight. You might temporarily eliminate it by keeping your binoculars dry, but it'll return the next time it rains or is humid.

What Size Binocular Lenses Are Best For Hunting?

It all depends on how you hunt. You may prefer lightweight binoculars if you're constantly on the go. A pair that has a smaller objective lens might work better for you. A pair with a larger objective lens is better for stationary hunters.

Should You Have Different Pairs Of Binoculars For Different Forms Of Hunting?

Most cases no. Good hunting binoculars can be used in many hunting environments, so they are versatile and allow the hunter to use them for any type of game. Only exception to this would be for large game hunting, where you might need a very high zoom pair. It would make sense to buy a lighter pair of binoculars for common hunts and keep your more powerful binoculars (which will likely be heavier and more complicated) for larger hunts. For situations in which you need to have a lot of range, a spotting scope can be incredibly useful.

Do You Need Binoculars For Deer Hunting?

Yes, that's the short answer. Safety is important because binoculars allow you to see faraway objects and not have your gun pointed at them. Using your riflescope instead of a telescope is dangerous. It is important to ensure that you know the target and its dimensions before firing at it. Binoculars reduce distance, so you can see faraway objects from afar without having to walk all the way. Binoculars are a great tool for success because they allow you to see distant animals during the early and late hours of the morning, when they are most likely moving.

As mentioned above, all of our information is drawn from actual research, so the accuracy level is reliable. Furthermore, best 8x42 binoculars for hunting of 2024 will be updated regularly to add new data. You should keep a close eye on our websites for any updates or additions.

After all, we are always available to support and assist you with any problems related to best 8x42 binoculars for hunting. Please feel free to contact us as soon as possible. Thank you!


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio