Binoculars are something every serious birder owns and shopping for a pair can be confusing. What do all the features and numbers mean, how do you know which ones to buy, and how much do you have to spend to get a good pair? Over the years, I have used several binoculars, both good and bad, and have found an affordable pair whose performance far exceeds their price tag.
The Vortex Vanquish 8 x 26 binoculars have impressed me in so many ways. The fact they are waterproof is one of my favourite features. Some of my best days birding during spring migration have been when rain grounds the birds and not worrying about keeping my binoculars dry gives me peace of mind. Not only are they waterproof, the lenses are fog proof too.
Birds appear close with the 8x magnification and a field of view of 352 feet at 1000 yards. I don't like using binoculars that offer too much magnification as I have a hard time holding them steady and higher magnification magnifies not only the subject but any shake as well. For me, this renders high-powered binoculars useless. For this reason, 8x magnification for me is right on the money. The multi-coated lenses deliver clear bright images and I've always found multi-coated lenses easier to clean with less streaking.
The adjustable eye cups are great especially if you wear glasses. With a simple twist of the eyecup, you can look through binoculars while leaving your glasses on. The rubber body is soft and comfortable on the hands and at only 12.7 ounces I barely notice them around my neck. These binoculars are incredibly compact and easily fit into a backpack, purse or even a coat pocket. Not only are these binoculars incredibly affordable (under $200 taxes in delivered to my door) they come with an unlimited, unconditional, lifetime warranty.
Whether you are an avid birder or a beginner, Vortex Vanquish binoculars pack in more features than their price would suggest. If you are looking for your first pair of binoculars, a new pair of binoculars, or a lighter more compact pair of binoculars I suggest looking at the Vortex Vanquish.
Happy Birding!
By Paul Roedding
