Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars - HD Optical System, Non-slip Grip, Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof, Included GlassPak - Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty

I purchased these as a second pair for a backup to my Hawke Frontier ED X binoculars to keep handy in my vehicle. What I did not expect was that they would rival the Hawke binoculars in almost every way.To start, the Frontier ED X is an extremely high quality binocular that sells for just under $500, and they themselves are built and perform like much more expensive binoculars - and have a lifetime warranty. I got them after a long review of articles and videos on many different choices and they are the top choice of many for birding and general use.I had reviewed Vortex binocular choices earlier and was impressed with the company. This is what drove me to try them out for my backup set.When I got the Vortex Diamondback HD in 8x42 I was pleasantly surprised by the build quality, ergonomics, and performance for less than half the price of the Hawkes.I would easily be happy using the Diamondbacks and not feel any huge compromise. The image quality is just a hair less detailed than the Hawkes, and just a very minor difference in chromatic aberration, and the field of view is 426ft at 1,000 yards on the Hawkes and just under 400 for the Vortex. But honestly the difference in practical use is relatively minor. The Diamondbacks are that good.Other differences are the magnesium body of the Hawkes vs the aluminum body of the Diamondback, the Hawkes have ED glass which the Diamondbacks do not (accounts for the difference in image quality) and the eye pieces on the ocular end are metal and unscrew easy for replacement if needed on the Hawkes. And more use of metal vs plastic in general.However to be honest if you don’t care about all of that the image quality on the Diamondbacks is bright and sharp - and they feel/handle really well. Focus is smooth, and in terms of comfort / ergonomics I might give the edge to the Diamondbacks. The more open hinge design on the Diamondbacks makes them easy to handle with one hand and the thumb indentations on the barrels are a nice touch.Consider that the Diamondbacks are argon filled fog/water proof, shock resistant, and have a quality roof prism with fully multi-coated lenses, adjustable eye relief in three positions, and a very good field of view - and you have a great pair of binoculars for around $200 (I paid $219 on Amazon). For that price...you are getting outstanding value. Hear me when I say this...these do not feel “cheap” in any way. And the image is great. Three position eye pieces - providing enough eye relief for eyeglass wearers, no problem. The diopter is not lockable but honestly it is a very firm adjustment - so it’s not going to be easily bumped out of adjustment accidentally.The included neck strap is a good one, padded and comfortable. The lens covers both ocular and objective lens are good. The case that comes with it is a chest mount case that may appeal more to hunters; but I would never use. But it’s decent quality for the price and fine for storing your binoculars when they are not in use. But I didn’t buy these for the case.If you want a really good set of binoculars for birding or general use - these are a great choice if you don’t want to spend much more than around $200. I don’t know what else out there can deliverthis kind of experience at this price and with an unconditional lifetime guarantee.Yes they are made in China - I am sure this is part of the reason they can be sold at this price. But the quality is excellent - and the company stands behind the product for life.

I have been waiting for the time when I could afford the Vortex brand. I was so pleased to see the Diamondback model on sale for a fantastic price via the American Amazon site. Even with Canadian conversion, they were a steal. They are fantastic binoculars, couldn't ask for better in my view. I wish I could afford the more expensive model, with the few extra perks, but their functionality and stability as well as size are exactly what I need just now. Image quality is much better than I am used to also. The included Glasspak carrying case/harness is a bonus, although will take a bit of getting used to. One comment, not a criticism, however, is that they are a touch heavier than others I have owned/tested. All in all, A+ in every respect.

Picked these after finding them on multiple "best of" lists as a more budget-friendly high-end option as compared to other product in the $1k+ range. They do not disappoint. Extremely clear, good magnification and great field of view. I got them for general use and can't comment on specific use-cases but the birds in my back woods are so clear you can count their feathers.

I took a bird watching course at LSU. This pair was recommended by the course instructor who is the president of the Audubon Society. You can view details of birds exactly like you should when identifying birds. Well worth the price. Easy to use. Nice case and holder. A+ purchase!

Great product, good price, very nice and bright Optics, good image Clarity and quality. The textured armor over the binoculars makes for a nice firm grip, and contrary to some reviews I've read I don't think they're too heavy I think they're just right for their weight. I'd recommend!

Got a killer price on the 8x42 Vortex Diamondback so I pulled the trigger. It is my second binocular after my year-old 8x42 Celestron Nature DX, which is another popular entry-level binocular and generally $50-70 cheaper. Here are my first impressions compared to the Celestron.The Vortex is longer/taller but is actually more lightweight and less bulky than the Celestron due to its narrower barrels, making it feel much more comfortable and natural in the hands. I do one-handed holding a lot and the Vortex feels very comfortable, whereas the Celestron does not.The Vortex has wider ocular lenses and an appreciably wider FOV.From my limited use so far I have not found the Vortex to be appreciably sharper than the Celestron, but it has the edge in color rendition, which is much more natural, whereas the Celestron's is quite warm, perhaps excessively so in comparison.The Celestron is known to suffer from build quality issues. Within 3 months of purchase the eyecups on mine started going. It remains to be seen how the Vortex will stand up to daily use but it does feel very solid in the hands. And of course one can rest easy knowing Vortex's unconditional warranty.The included neck strap is all right, pretty comfortable. The GlassPak harness is a nice extra and feels well-made; I don't imagine I'll use it much but it's nice to have as an option.The only thing I hate about the Vortex so far are the stay-on lens caps, which are flimsy and don't stay on well. I imagine they'll wear out pretty quickly. But this is a minor issue.The Celestron Nature DX is a great binocular for the price and popular for a reason, but spend a little more money and in my opinion you get a nicer all-around binocular in the Diamondback.

These are a nice pair of binoculars at a good price. They're bright and clear. We use them for everyday casual viewing and deer hunting. At the end of the day, they're just a tool. If you have more intense viewing needs, then you may want to upgrade.