“roof-prism”

It’s a given that Leica manufactures brilliant sport-optics, and, true to form, the Noctivid (NV) came with labels like “revolutionary” and “all new design.”

Swarovski recently released yet another iteration of its famous EL binocular that doesn’t even try to improve the optics. Probably because it doesn’t have to.

At its core, the Steiner HX series is designed as an olive branch to the U.S. market—it packs high-quality German glass into a package that’s meant to be familiar to the American hunter, and at a price that’s upper-middle class yet not eye-popping.

Years ago Leica’s Trinovid was the binocular dream date. Crisp, sharp, clear, bright. Think of a word that describes a great binocular view and it was lavished on the Trinovid, one of the world’s top binoculars.

Steiner has announced the expansion of its popular Wildlife XP binocular line for 2016. New additions to the family will include 8x24, 10x26 and 10.5x28 Wildlife XP Compact models.

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?

A spotting scope is one of those ancillary shooting and hunting accessories that isn’t essential—until you’ve used one. Don't believe us? Try the affordable MeoPro 80 HD from Meopta.

Offering considerable value for the price, the Maven B.2 is an excellent binocular both mechanically and optically. The finish options provide far more allowance for individual tastes and needs than most binoculars, and Maven also offers lighter-weight B.1 and B.3 models with the same range of consumer choices.

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?