Binocular Strength

[Hummer]

I new to hunting and trying to acquire the proper equipment. I headed for second season rifle Elk in unit 12 Oct 24th and want to get some information/opinion on what strength binos to get. It seems 10x42 and 8x42 are the most popular but is the 2x really that much more effective/important?

Thanks for the $0.02

First, the second rifle season begins on Oct. 17th and ends on the 25th. Are you only hunting for the last two days of season? If so, what a shame, the time spent in the field directly correlates to success. GMU 12 is fine elk country with a combination of dark timber, aspen groves and open grassland parks.

As for binoculars, I recommend a good 10X42 for that area, and most of elk country. Unless, a person is much older and/or has a problem holding steady, then the lower power might be better. Also, if you only hunt thick timber then an 8 power would be fine. The antler point restrictions require that you see and count points before you shoot, and the extra 2x magnification will give you an advantage at most ranges. If you spot animals at a greater distance, the higher magnification will help you decide whether a hike and stalk will be worthwhile.

Buy the best you can afford. IMO, you can get into decent binoculars beginning around $400 and up. You get what you pay for in usefulness and durability. Oh, and don't be tempted to buy compact binoculars for hunting. The little teeny lenses are lousy for most any use, especially where fast acquisition is important. Big ocular lenses will give a better view faster.

Good luck!