“lens cloth”

SIG Sauer has expanded its Zulu9 binocular line to include a 15x56 model, which maximizes light transmission and stands up to the rigors hunters encounter in the field.

SIG Sauer is known as a quality producer of military and law enforcement firearms that come at a premium price. Previously SIG had an association with the hunting market by way of its sister brands, Blaser, Sauer and Mauser, until they were separated approximately 10 years ago to serve the hunting market as stand-alone entities.

Hunters have so many good choices in mid-priced binoculars these days that arguing brands is as pointless as engaging in the ol’ .308 vs. .30-06 debate. The crowded and competitive nature of the $300-$800 bino market is a great thing for buyers—but not necessarily sellers. And so when I heard a new company named Styrka had entered the business, I had to question its approach. What more could Styrka offer in a bino with a street price of about $650 that’s not already available?

Binocular buyers are often puzzled about the relationship between price and quality. With various models retailing for anywhere from $80 to $3,000, it’s a broad sea to navigate. “Buy the best you can afford” is good advice but barely limits the selection. In each price range there seem to be dozens of models from many, many companies. Where do you begin?

The world is so full of binoculars these days the choices become bewildering, especially since most hunters can’t afford to spend more than $2,000 on a super-binocular. Luckily, the quality of moderately priced binoculars keeps improving, and a good example is the new, made-in-America Trijicon HD 8x42.