Whether you are an avid birder or someone who enjoys watching the birds at a backyard feeder, binoculars are a great investment. The magnification binoculars offer allows us to identify birds more easily while better admiring their stunning plumage and intricate feather detail.
Over the years, I have tried a multitude of binoculars and own three pairs by different manufacturers that provide 8X magnification. Wanting something more powerful for smaller songbirds and far away subjects, I found myself in the market for another pair.
I currently own a pair of Vortex Vanquish compact binoculars and love everything about them, so naturally I looked at Vortex again when searching for a new pair.
Wanting something high quality without breaking the bank I decided on the Vortex Triumph HD 10 x 42 binoculars. I was drawn to this pair by Vortex claiming these binoculars to be their class's best image quality, ergonomics, and durability. At a price of only $159.00 and backed by Vortex’s unconditional, unlimited lifetime warranty, I was certainly intrigued and eager to see how they perform.
Birders often shy away from binoculars that offer higher magnification as it narrows the field of view, but the Vortex Triumph has a field of view of 334’ at 1000 yards which is comparable to the 8X magnification pairs I own by Vortex and Nikon.
My biggest issue in the past with binoculars featuring 10X magnification has been holding them steady. Not only is the subject magnified so too is any shake. What is the point of having a closer view if the subject is bouncing up and down? The other pairs of 10 power binoculars I have tried have been too big and heavy, while others are too small to manage a steady grip. At 6.1” x 5.0” inches and weighing only 1.43 pounds the Vortex Triumph features a rubber armour non-slip coating allowing me to easily hold these binoculars steady. The rubber armour also adds protection making these binoculars shockproof.
The multi-coated lenses deliver exceptional clarity and light transmission even in low-light conditions. Nitrogen purged and sealed with an O-ring these binoculars are waterproof and fogproof.
Carrying these binoculars on my chest with the included Vortex GlassPak harness was incredibly comfortable and provided quick access when hiking outdoors. The mesh side pockets, and zippered rear pouch fit a variety of items like the eyepiece covers and cleaning cloth.
The adjustable eyecups are a key feature for those who wear glasses as this allows you to leave your glasses on while looking through the lenses.
The neoprene neck strap is the most comfortable factory strap I have ever worn on any pair of binoculars and is another welcome feature.
Using these binoculars with 10X magnification made identifying confusing fall warblers and other small songbirds much easier and I could not be more pleased with my purchase.
The performance and features packed into this pair of binoculars that arrived at my door for under $200 taxes is quite impressive. The unconditional, unlimited lifetime warranty gives me peace of mind that Vortex stands behind its product.
With the holiday season fast approaching, these binoculars are a great gift idea for any bird lover regardless of whether they are a beginner or advanced. The price point, features, and high-quality construction of these binoculars make them a perfect choice. If you are looking for a great pair of binoculars at an affordable price, I highly recommend the Vortex Triumph HD 10x42 binoculars.
Happy Birding!
Paul Roedding
Urban Nature Store