Best Hunting Optics
Vortex Razor HD 22-48×65 Spotting Scope ST
The Razor HD 22-48×65 Spotting Scope ST is a straight spotter measuring 15.6” long and weighs 56.8 ounces. It comes with a neoprene cover that protects the spotter and allows use of the spotter’s features. A built-in, extendable sunshade provides a clear view on sunny days, and the spotter mounts directly to Arca-Swiss tripod heads without the use of additional plates. An eyepiece cap and objective lens cover are included. This is a high-quality spotter that provides a crystal-clear view and it will serve you well in the field as well as at the range.
Vortex Razor HD 4000 Laser Rangefinder
This rangefinder is a 7x optic capable of ranging deer as far as 2,200 yards away. It weighs 9.9 ounces and easily fits in a pocket, or a typical rangefinder pocket on a bino harness. It comes with a case which can be attached to a MOLLE system. It’s rubber armored, providing a secure grip as well as durable protection. One of its outstanding features is HCD (Horizontal Component Distance) angle-compensated ranging technology which gives bow and rifle shooters critical distance data to make accurate shots, regardless of incline (max angle reading + or – 70 degrees). It can operate in 4 modes: Normal, First, Last, and Extended Laser Range Mode (ELR). It also has a line of sight (LOS) range mode and scan feature. Accuracy is 0.5 yards at 5- to 200 yards; 1 yard at 200- to 1,000 yards, and 2 yards over 1,000 yards. Editor George Krumm used this rangefinder a lot last fall and ranged deer as far as 1,000 yards in conditions that included temperatures below zero and blowing snow, and the HD 4000 performed flawlessly.
Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide HD 8x32mm
The BX-4 Pro Guide HD 8x32mm is a compact, light set of glasses that doesn’t compromise on performance. Editor George Krumm spent hours looking through these binos last fall. He comments that even during long periods of glassing, he didn’t experience eyestrain and these binoculars helped him see animals he wouldn’t have seen without them. He also said the compact size made carrying them much more comfortable than some of the larger binos he’s used, while still providing a sharp, clear image. The BX-4s are waterproof, fogproof, useful over a wide temperature range, and are guaranteed for life. They come with a GO Afield shoulder strap, lens covers, and binocular case.
Leupold RX-1500i TBR/W Rangefinder
Contributing Editor Sarah Stallone had this to say, “Who knew you could pack so much into just 5 ounces! This lightweight unit’s most intriguing feature is a Real-Time Antler Measurements through the onboard “Trophy Scale.” An adjustable preset that allows you to gauge width at distance. This is great for Alaskan moose hunters who need to determine if a bull has a 50-inch or larger rack. Select various reticles, or switch between line of sight, bow (archery) or rifle mode and select a ballistic category to accurately convey angle compensation for your caliber or arrow weight. The high-contrast black display lists accurate angle compensation and wind holds, and gives you a lightning-fast readout. Waterproof, rugged, and extremely accurate, this little unit will be your favorite moose-hunting sidekick this fall!”
Leupold BX-4 Range HD TBR/W 10x42mm
Contributing Editor Sarah Stallone spends a lot of hours each year behind the glass. She explained, “It’s an engineering miracle to have a high-performance, low-light conquering optic WITH an accurate, legible rangefinder readout, but Leupold has managed to bring you the combo without compromising either the optic, or the rangefinder! A fast, accurate 2600-yard rangefinder with the all-time favorite 10×42 HD bino platform displaying a crisp, red OLED display readout makes for a winning combination.”
