Viper hd 12x50 - Vortex Viper HD 12x50mm Roof Prism Binoculars

Phenominal crisp clear image. I went with the 12x so I was a little concerned with too much vibration at the higher magnification with no tripod, etc. I pictured having these as my long range/tripod type setup and using my old prostaffs for most bowhunts and hardwood hunts. These Viper HDs are too nice though. Image is too crisp to leave them on the shelf. My concern of vibration plays little or no roll. I compared them against the prostaffs in 10x and some Carsons in 8x. A couple times I thought I was getting more shake from the higher mag' but I'd lower them and pick them up again and they'd settle in with less shake. At really far distances it's noticeable, but at the long range I want the higher magnification anyhow.

The ONLY thing I'd warn of is for the back country hiker/hunter. They are a little heavier than most bino's i've used. If you're factoring in every single ounce for a week long packing trip you may want to hold them or wear them before deciding if you want something a little lighter. Me personally, they're worth the weight. If you're an ounce-counter please hold them first.

This was my first Vortex product. Once I used them I almost immediately ordered my second. Vortex quality to price ratio is great.

I've watched multiple sites for a couple months straight. Exhaustive searching. Even after I purchased. You can find some really great deals out there if you're not in a hurry. Careful of those free shipping options if you need it in a hurry.