First Look: Burris Signature HD Binoculars

Colorado-based Burris Optics was, for decades, known for its hunting-driven product lines. A few years back, though, Burris dropped most of its observational products in deference to sister company Steiner (both brands currently operate under the Beretta Holding Company), in order to focus more on its red-dot sights.

Dedicated Burris fans didn't take very kindly to that, so earlier this year Burris returned to the observational market with its Signature HD and Droptine lines. The Signature HD line features a spotting scope, which I covered in a print edition of American Hunter earlier this year. That said, it's also home to a new set of binos. Here are five things you need to know about the Signature HD Binocular.

Three models are available.
For now, Burris is making its Signature HD binos available in three models: 8x42, 10x42 and 12x50.

They feature an open-bridge design.
Like I said, Burris returned to the observational game with two distinct lines: Signature HD and Droptine. The Droptine binos are a bit more affordable, and thus don’t come packed with as many features. And one of those Signature HD-exclusive features is the open-bridge design. It’s meant to reduce weight and simply make the binoculars more comfortable to hold, and succeeds on both counts.

They do their job.
All of the Signature HD lenses are multi-coated to maximize light transmission and reduce glare. Also included are phase-correct BaK roof prisms that help produce high-resolution images, regardless of range. You’re getting good glass, and more, with the Signature HD line.

They’re tough.
Hunters have a habit of beating their gear up. It’s not neglect—it’s just the nature of what we do. Burris is aware of that, and has built the Signature HD line accordingly. The outer surfaces of the bino are rubber armored for protection. It also makes for a sure grip. The binos are also nitorgen-filled for waterproof and fog proof performance. Not bad.

They're affordable.
The Signature HD binos are placed firmly in the middle-of-the-pack, as optics pricing goes. They ship with an MSRP of $455, and can typically be found on shelves for a bit less than that.