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Vortex vs Zen Ray

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Category: Other Optics
Forum Name: Binoculars
Forum Description: Anything that requires two eyes to look through it
URL: http://www.opticstalk.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=28297
Printed Date: March/29/2024 at 05:49
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.01 - http://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: Vortex vs Zen Ray
Posted By: Outwest
Subject: Vortex vs Zen Ray
Date Posted: March/20/2011 at 17:26
Ive narrowed my choice for new binos down to 2.

Vortex Talon HD 10x42-  http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-talon-hd-10x42-binocular - http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-talon-hd-10x42-binocular

vs

 Zen Ray ED2 10x43-   http://www.zen-ray.com/shop/binoculars/zened2/zened2-10x43.html - http://www.zen-ray.com/shop/binoculars/zened2/zened2-10x43.html

I really just need some opinions to push me over the edge on a pair of these binos.     i.e.. clarity, brightness.

Thanks,

Jordan




Replies:
Posted By: Klamath
Date Posted: March/20/2011 at 18:53
I think there is absolutely no chance these are not basically the same binocular.  I say basically because it looks to me like all Vortex did was put the Atlas Intrepid they already sell through their affiliate sister company and put it in a very slightly modified housing with a little different focus wheel and different armor.  The weights, all of the specs are too identical for this not to be the case.  Besides, I see no reason for Vortex to try and reinvent the wheel at this price point.  So a new casing, add dielectric coating and maybe a lens coating tweak or two, and viola',  a "new" binocular under the HD moniker.  Not saying there is anything wrong with that either Wink.
 
Either will do you very good service and you will be surprised how well they compare to glass costing 3-4x more than what you will pay for either.
 
I may be able to get my hands on a Talon HD next week (if the dealer has any yet).  A look through the objectives will tell a lot.


-------------
Steve
"Everything that can be counted does not necessarily count; everything that counts cannot necessarily be counted". William Bruce Cameron



Posted By: Bitterroot Bulls
Date Posted: March/20/2011 at 19:02
The Zen ED2 is the most refined "Chinese ED" that I have handled.  I have had great experiences with both companies and their products, but I have not seen a Talon HD.

-------------
-Matt


Posted By: Outwest
Date Posted: March/20/2011 at 21:06
well the Vortex VIP warranty is really pulling me over to that side but from what i read the ZR is just an awesome piece of glass for the price.

Is it worth the loss of that warranty??


Posted By: Klamath
Date Posted: March/20/2011 at 21:43

What loss of warranty?

The VIP is a lifetime transferrable no fault warranty.  So is Zen Ray's.  They just didn't give theirs a name.
 
I just "think" they are the same.  I won't know till I get them side by side.  So other than an obvious assumption on my part about the Talon, who knows.  I do know the ZEN ED 2 works.  Your call Wink.


-------------
Steve
"Everything that can be counted does not necessarily count; everything that counts cannot necessarily be counted". William Bruce Cameron



Posted By: Bitterroot Bulls
Date Posted: March/20/2011 at 21:55
Zen Ray has an excellent warranty.

http://www.opticstalk.com/zen-ray-update_topic27751.html - http://www.opticstalk.com/zen-ray-update_topic27751.html


Edited to make link live.




-------------
-Matt


Posted By: Outwest
Date Posted: March/20/2011 at 22:13
Alright, well it looks like my mind has been made up. 

You guys just sold me a pair of ZR's.

Thanks


Posted By: RDM17353
Date Posted: April/01/2011 at 12:24
Have you had a chance to look at a pair.  I don't know anyone that carries them.  I like to see the merchandise before I purchase it.



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