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Which bino

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wildturkey101 View Drop Down
Optics GrassHopper
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Joined: February/07/2011
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote wildturkey101 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Which bino
    Posted: July/23/2012 at 14:59
I am trying to decide between several different binoculars? The problem is I do not have any place close to test all these together.                                                                                                                                                                       Vortex: viper 8x42                                                                                                                                      Zen Ray: prime 8x42                                                                                                                                 Steiner: Nighthunter XP 8x42                                                                                                                    Meopta:meostar 8x42                                                                                                                                                                                                            I will be using to glass for animals in woods and fields.The Zen Rays, I have never looked thru in any form,but most here give them a good review for the money. Could someone give me there opinion on which of these would be best for hunting and glassing for birds.                                                                        
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Bitterroot Bulls View Drop Down
Optics Master Extraordinaire
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Bitterroot Bulls Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: July/23/2012 at 15:33
I have seen all of those save the Prime.
 
I like the Meostar the best.  They have a very rugged build and an excellent image.
-Matt
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Klamath View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Klamath Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: July/23/2012 at 16:06
The only place that I can think of that is a dealer for all of the models you list is SWFA, our site sponsor.  You could call them and see what they think.  However due to a damned "Longshoreman's Dispute" with the Port of Portland ZR finally just today the bulk of their Prime shipment through the dispute, into, and then through Customs.  They are shipping like mad today.  So it may be awhile before anybody at SWFA sees a Prime.
 
From your list I'd get the Prime.  My beta review sample is outstanding optically.  It and the Meoepta look like you could use either one in a barfight and emerge with a useable binocular.  The flat field of the Prime is the real deal, and that gives it somewhat of an advantage over the Meostar in that the Prime appears to have a wider fov than the Meopta, despite similar specs.  I have not seen the Nighthunter, but the Prime is close enough to the optics of the more expensive Peregrine XP as to not matter.  Steiner has a reputation for tough stuff too, so you might escape the barfight with the Nighthunter intact too Smile.  The Prime is a better binocular than the original Viper, but then again the Viper HD is better than the orginal Viper too.  The Prime probably is the best bang for the buck considering you are getting a new model, not a discontinued one and factoring into the deal the price.
 
You will likely have to order a couple, see for yourself which you like and sent the loser back.  I fit were me I'd order the Nigfhthunter and the Prime and make my choice there.  If you are going for the Nighthunter $$, compare the new Meostar HD, not the older model that is now discounted.
Steve
"Everything that can be counted does not necessarily count; everything that counts cannot necessarily be counted". William Bruce Cameron

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smesk403 View Drop Down
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Joined: September/27/2012
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote smesk403 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: September/27/2012 at 14:45
Cant say much for the others but I have used the vipers pretty extensively and have been very impressed with the quality for the money.
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