Optics for a Mule Deer Hunt

by
posted on November 3, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
mule_deer_optics_f.jpg

Editor's Note: Mark Kayser had the opportunity to put all of this gear to use on a mule deer hunt in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. You can catch up on that story here.

You may not have the cash to hunt with the high-end gear of the rich and famous, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality, especially in the optics department.

The new Nikon Pro Staff 3S binocular offers hunters an affordable option constructed from the best elements of Nikon’s full lineup. Pick up one and the first thing you notice is its light weight; at less than 20 ounces, it fits in nicely with backcountry hunts. It’s waterproof and fogproof, plus it has a rubberized ergonomic design for fit and durability.

In 8x42 or 10x42, the objective transmits ample light for nearly all legal shooting conditions, and the multilayer-coated lenses ensure a vivid field of view. Eye positioning is easy with multi-click adjustments built around rubber eyecups to accommodate eyewear. Perhaps the best news of all is the price, only $119.95 for the 8x42 and $129.95 for the 10x42.

Latest

Beauty Shot 2
Beauty Shot 2

Bolt-Action Build: Model 2020 Muley

With the right tools and a bit of know-how, anyone can build a quality backcountry rifle in their own shop, and for a far sight less than a comparable rifle from a custom gun-builder. Follow along for exactly how to build a backcountry-capable rifle all your own, with your only trip to an FFL being the one necessary to get your receiver.

Range Review: Savage Arms' Revel DLX Takedown

This sharp-shooting rimfire lever action from Savage Arms splits neatly in half for easier transport and storage.

MDT Expands CRBN Line with 700 LA Compatibility

MDT has introduced its ultra-lightweight CRBN Rifle Stock lineup with a new inlet for the Remington 700 Long Action Right-Handed CIP configuration. The CRBN Rifle Stock is also available for the Remington 700 Short Action, giving shooters a lightweight carbon-fiber option across multiple action lengths.

Gear Review: Sitka Fanatic Hoodie and Bib

Need to stay warm in the cold or extreme cold and want something to last for many seasons? Enter the Fanatic lineup at Sitka.

Hardware Review: Colt Kodiak

Check out Bryce Towsley's review of the hard-charging Colt Kodiak .44 Magnum revolver.

New for 2026: ScentLok Ridge Series for Women

ScentLok has taken the features hunters love about its men's Ridge line and combined them with a fit designed to help women feel comfortable and agile in the field. It combines form-fitting designs with technologies like Carbon Alloy, Silver Allow and Precip-X to produce an excellent midseason option.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.