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

Olmsted Shooting BAR MK4 Hunter 2
Olmsted Shooting BAR MK4 Hunter 2

New for 2026: Browning BAR MK 4 Hunter

One of America's favorite semi-automatic hunting rifles is back, in the Browning BAR MK 4. In this video, American Hunter Editor in Chief Scott Olmsted checks out the Hunter model, with a beautiful walnut stock, and aluminum alloy receiver.

New for 2026: Remington 7mm Backcountry Offerings

The 7mm BackCountry came to light last year this time, utilizing a Peak Alloy steel case to raise the pressure limits from the traditional 65,000 psi all the way up to 80,000 psi. For 2026, Remington has joined the party with three offerings for the 7BC: Core-Lokt, Core-Lokt Tipped, and Speer Impact.

Landmark Cougar Reproduction Confirmed in Michigan

Late last month, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) verified a Dec. 6 photo of an adult cougar being followed by two kittens down a snowy trail in central Ontonagon County. The last time the kittens were documented—in early March 2025—they were only about two months old and alone, raising concerns about their survival.

Report: Private Landowner Investments in Conservation Hits Staggering Number

Private lands play a central role in the well-being of people and wildlife throughout the West, but the economic pressure increases each year. A new, groundbreaking report sheds light on the efforts and investments landowners continue to make, despite that challenge, to conserve and steward remaining intact lands and natural resources.

White Label Armory Launches Full Suppressor Lineup

White Label Armory, a manufacturing and supply subsidiary of VKTR Industries, is launching a new budget friendly, duty-capable suppressor line available to dealers exclusively through Sports South.

New for 2026: CVA Scout Spur 28-Gauge

CVA has unveiled its new Scout Spur in 28-gauge with fresh patterns. The Scout Spur is lightweight, handy and now in .28-gauge gives hunters more options in the field.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.