Best Hunting Optics Brands For 2024
Hunting optics play a crucial role in the success and enjoyment of any hunting adventure. The right optics can make all the difference in accurately spotting and identifying game, allowing hunters to take well-placed shots with confidence.
In the world of hunting optics, there are several types of devices, such as binoculars, spotting scopes, rangefinders, and rifle scopes, each designed to serve a specific purpose and enhance the overall hunting experience.
The market is flooded with numerous hunting optics brands, each offering a wide range of products to cater to different requirements, preferences, and budgets. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which brands are truly the best and most reliable.
When shopping for hunting optics, important factors to consider include the type of hunting you’ll be doing, the environment in which you’ll be using them, performance in low-light conditions, and durability.
Additionally, pay close attention to key features such as magnification, lens quality and coatings, field of view, eye relief, and ease of adjustment. Your choice of hunting optics should strike a balance between quality and affordability, ensuring that you have a reliable, easy-to-use tool in the field without breaking the bank.
With these critical factors in mind, we have thoroughly researched and tested a variety of hunting optics from top brands to help you make an informed decision on which products will best serve your needs and enhance your hunting experience.
Top Hunting Optics Brands
We’ve compiled a list of the best hunting optics brands that will help you make an informed decision to enhance your hunting experience.
Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder
The Vortex Crossfire HD 1400 is a reliable and accurate rangefinder for hunting enthusiasts seeking a durable and versatile option.
Pros
- Exceptional resolution and clarity
- Lightweight and compact design
- Multiple target and ranging modes
Cons
- Requires CR2 battery (not included)
- Minimum distance of 15 yards
- The red display might be hard to read in bright conditions
We recently took the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder to the field and were truly impressed by its overall performance. With 5x magnification and a high-definition optical system, it provided exceptional resolution and clarity.
We found that the rangefinder’s glass elements minimized chromatic aberration, which contributed to its outstanding color fidelity.
In terms of usability, the Crossfire HD 1400’s lightweight design was a massive plus. Weighing only 4.8 ounces and measuring 4″ x 1.3″ x 2.9″, this rangefinder easily fit into our backpacks and didn’t weigh us down during hikes. Furthermore, its three target modes (Normal, First, and Last) and two ranging modes (HCD and LOS) added a layer of versatility to our hunts.
Despite these impressive features, the Vortex Crossfire HD 1400 has a few minor drawbacks. Firstly, it requires a CR2 battery, which is not included in the package. This means that you’ll need to purchase one separately before using the rangefinder.
Additionally, the device’s minimum distance is 15 yards, which might be an issue for those seeking a closer range. Finally, some users might find the red TOLED display challenging to read in bright lighting conditions. Nonetheless, these minor issues did not overshadow the overall excellence of this rangefinder.
The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder is a worthy investment for hunting enthusiasts seeking an accurate, reliable, and versatile option.
With its user-friendly design, exceptional resolution, and multiple modes, this rangefinder will enhance your hunting experience. Just remember to purchase a CR2 battery before heading out!
Vortex Optics Hunter Riflescope Rings 1 inch – Medium
We believe the Vortex Optics Hunter Riflescope Rings are a reliable and sturdy option for general hunting setups.
Pros
- Aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum construction for strength
- Compatible with Picatinny or Weaver-type rails
- Affordable and sold in a package of two
Cons
- Not suitable for ultra-high recoil caliber rifles
- May not fit all scope and rifle combinations
- Limited height options
We recently mounted the Vortex Optics Hunter Riflescope Rings on our hunting rifle, and we were impressed with how easy they were to install. The 1-inch medium rings provided a solid attachment to the Picatinny rail and ensured our riflescope was held securely in place.
One notable strength of these riflescope rings is the aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum construction. This material ensures optimum strength while keeping the weight down – an important factor for maintaining accuracy and balance with our rifle. Additionally, these rings are sold in pairs, making it a cost-effective option for mounting a scope.
However, we found that the medium height of these rings may not accommodate every configuration, and some high-powered rifles may require a different mount for better compatibility. Furthermore, they might not provide adequate support for use with ultra-high recoil caliber rifles.
The Vortex Optics Hunter Riflescope Rings provide a reliable and versatile option that is suitable for general hunting setups. We appreciate their build quality, compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver-type rails, and affordability. Just be sure to double-check compatibility with your specific scope and rifle combination before purchasing.
CVLIFE 4×32 Compact Rifle Scope
This CVLIFE 4×32 compact rifle scope is an affordable option for those seeking a reliable and durable hunting optic.
Pros
- Fully coated optical glass for bright and high-contrast imaging
- High-strength aluminum alloy construction for increased durability
- Suitable for various weather conditions due to fog, shock, and waterproof design
Cons
- Short eye relief may affect comfort during long use
- Not suitable for heavy-recoil firearms
- Possible inconsistencies in build quality
We recently tried out the CVLIFE 4×32 Compact Rifle Scope and came away impressed with its performance considering its price point. The fully coated optical glass provided us with bright and high-contrast imaging, which is crucial when hunting in diverse environments.
The high-strength aluminum alloy construction ensures that this scope is built to withstand the test of time, and with its waterproof and fog-proof design, we were able to use it in various weather conditions without any issues.
The short eye relief of 3.3″ might be a minor drawback for some hunters, as it can cause discomfort during extended periods of use, but it should not be a deal-breaker considering the scope’s benefits. It’s worth noting that this compact scope may not be suitable for use on firearms with heavy recoil, as some users have reported issues with lens movement over time.
Additionally, the build quality may vary between units, as some customers have reported difficulty sighting in the scope.
The CVLIFE 4×32 Compact Rifle Scope is an excellent choice for casual or beginner hunters looking for a budget-friendly hunting optic. Its solid construction, clear optics, and compatibility with various weather conditions make it a good value overall.
Just be aware of the potential issues with eye relief comfort, recoil tolerance, and slight inconsistencies in build quality.
KEMIMOTO Scope Covers Neoprene Optics Lens Cover 10-12″
We recommend this KEMIMOTO scope cover for those who want a durable, protective, and convenient cover for their hunting optics.
Pros
- Long-term durable use
- Great lens protection
- Easy to pull on and off
Cons
- Limited size options
- May require more stretch
- Average build quality
During our time using the KEMIMOTO Scope Covers Neoprene Optics Lens Cover, we were impressed by how well it protected our hunting optics from dust, debris, and possible damage. The material is made of thick neoprene that provides a snug fit around the scope while also absorbing impact.
The hard round padding at the end of the sleeve adds extra protection for the lenses, ensuring they remain free from dust and debris, even when in storage for long periods.
We truly appreciated the unique pull-tab design that made it easy to slip the cover on and off, and it conveniently fits in your pocket when not in use.
However, we did notice that the KEMIMOTO scope cover has limited size options, fitting most scopes from 10 to 12 inches. It could also benefit from more stretch to accommodate larger scopes more comfortably. On top of that, the build quality remains average, but it still manages to get the job done.
The KEMIMOTO Scope Covers Neoprene Optics Lens Cover 10-12″ is a solid choice to keep your hunting optics well-protected and clean.
Though it has some limitations, its overall performance and ease of use outweigh the flaws. Consider this scope cover for protecting your optics investment and to ensure spotless lenses in the field.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best hunting optics, there are several factors to consider that will help ensure you find the right product for your needs. In this guide, we will discuss some of the key features to look for and provide you with some tips on how to choose the best hunting optics.
Magnification
One of the most important aspects of hunting optics is the magnification they provide. The level of magnification you need will depend on the type of hunting you’ll be doing and the distance at which you expect to be shooting. For close-range hunting, a lower magnification may be suitable, while long-range hunters may require higher magnification levels.
Objective Lens Size
The objective lens size impacts the amount of light that enters the optic, which can affect the clarity, brightness, and overall image quality. A larger lens typically allows for more light, providing a better image, especially in low-light conditions. However, a larger lens will also make the optic heavier and bulkier, which may not be ideal for all hunting situations.
Reticle Type
The reticle, or the aiming point within the optic, comes in a variety of styles and patterns. Some common reticle types include crosshairs, mil-dots, and ballistic reticles. The best reticle for you will depend on your personal preference and hunting style. Some hunters prefer a simple crosshair for quick target acquisition, while others may want a more advanced reticle for precise long-range shooting.
Optical Coatings
Optical coatings are applied to the lens surfaces to reduce glare, improve light transmission, and enhance image clarity. High-quality hunting optics will have multiple layers of coatings, often referred to as multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses. These coatings can make a significant difference in the performance of your optics, especially in low-light conditions.
Feature | Considerations |
---|---|
Magnification | Depends on hunting type and shooting distance |
Objective Lens | Larger lenses allow more light but are heavier and bulkier |
Reticle Type | Personal preference and hunting style play a key role |
Optical Coatings | Look for multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses |
Ultimately, choosing the best hunting optics comes down to balancing your specific requirements with quality, performance, and budget. By considering these factors and carefully evaluating your options, you can find the right hunting optics that will help make your hunts more enjoyable and successful.