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

W H2026 02 KNOW HOW CH1019 Hiking A Long Way In Or To Very Specific Refuges Can Lead To Coyote Success, Copyright Mark Kayser
W H2026 02 KNOW HOW CH1019 Hiking A Long Way In Or To Very Specific Refuges Can Lead To Coyote Success, Copyright Mark Kayser

Coyote Hunting Tips: Are You Overlooking These Details?

Don't overlook the small details on your coyote hunts. It could sink your hunt and leave you with a sinking feeling of failure. The following represent areas where overlooked details, big and small, could send your hunt to the bottom of the ocean faster than the Titanic.

New for 2026: Federal Heavyweight TSS Rob Roberts Limited Edition

Federal Ammunition has been shipping its new Heavyweight TSS Rob Roberts Limited Edition turkey loads. Developed in collaboration with legendary choke designer Rob Roberts, these limited-edition offerings are built to deliver extreme range, pattern density and lethal energy.

New for 2026: Pedersoli Kodiak Survivalist Compact Express Rifle

Italian Firearms Group (IFG) has released the Kodiak Survivalist, an all-new compact express rifle from Davide Pedersoli. Known for blending old-world detail with serious performance across its lineup, Pedersoli brings that same disciplined craftsmanship to a utility-driven concept, resulting in what might best be described as a "gentleman's survival rifle."

Turkey Loads 101

Seemingly simple, selecting the proper turkey load is anything but a grab-and-go proposition nowadays. Instead, it requires consideration of key load characteristics, purpose and value, all of which are covered in this article.

New for 2026: Kings Camo XKG Summit Series Packs

Kings Camo has launched its all-new XKG Summit Series Packs. Engineered for versatility, comfort and load-hauling capability, this pack systems offer modular performance suitable for a wide range of adventures, from streamlined day hunts to extended backcountry trips.

New for 2026: Real Avid Ratchet Rest Adjustable Height Shooting Bags

Real Avid has announced the Ratchet Rest—Adjustable Height Shooting Bags designed to give shooters exact elevation control, faster target alignment and repeatable shooting performance.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.