Whether you’re a bird watcher, hunter, sailor, or you simply just enjoy taking in your surroundings, one piece of equipment that you need is a pair of high-quality military-grade binoculars.
Binoculars come in handy because they allow you to see things that are much further away than the naked eye allows.
In this article, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about some of the best military-grade binoculars that are on the market.
Jump To Our Top 10 Military Binocular Choices
#1. Steiner Military-Marine 10X50mm Tactical Binocular (Best For The Money)
#2. Zeiss Victory RF Rangefinding Binoculars (Absolute Best Overall – No Budget)
#3. Vortex Razor HD Binoculars (Best For Overall Clarity)
#4. Cabela’s CX Pro HD Rangefinder Binoculars (Best For Hunting)
#5. Nikon Aculon A211 10-22×50 Binoculars (Best Low Budget)
#6. Riton Optics X5 Primal 10X42mm Binoculars (Best For Size & Weight)
#7. Leica Trinovid HD 10×42 Binoculars (2nd Best for Overall Magnification & Clarity)
#8. Steiner Commander 7×50 Military Binoculars (Best For Durability / Ruggedness)
#9. Swarovski EL Binoculars with Swarovision (2nd Best For Hunting)
#10. Barska 7×50 WP Floating Battalion Binoculars with Rangefinder (Best For Boating)
What to Consider When Shopping for Military Grade Binoculars
If you have never purchased binoculars before, you may be wondering what you should look for before you jump in and make a purchase.
There are several attributes that factor into the quality of the binoculars.
Magnification: This is probably the most important aspect of choosing the best pair of military-grade binoculars.
The magnification tells you how much larger objects will seem through the optics.
A pair of binoculars with a magnification of 7x will make objects appear 7 times larger.
Objective Size: The size of the objective lens determines how much light collection your binoculars will allow.
The larger the objective size, the brighter the image will be.
Size/Weight: When shopping around, make sure to pay attention to the size and weight of the binoculars.
If you are going to be taking them on a hunting or hiking trip, you will more than likely want a pair of smaller and lightweight binoculars so you are not carrying a heavy piece of equipment with you on a long journey.
If you are going to be sitting in your yard or at a park and observing nature more up close, then you can get away with a bigger pair.
Field of View (FOV): The field of view is the width of the visible area you can see while keeping the binoculars stationary while you are positioned 1,000 yards out.
The field of view decreases as the magnification increases.
Durability: Another factor that determines the quality of a pair of binoculars is the durability.
How strong they are, comes down to the type of materials they are made from, how well they are constructed, and if they are weatherproof.
When you are picking a pair of binoculars, you want something that can handle variations in weather and potentially being dropped.
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#1 – Steiner Military-Marine 10X50mm Tactical Binocular (Best For The Money)
- Magnification: 10x
- Field of View (FOV): 302’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 8.14” x 5” x3”; 35.3 oz
- Objective Size: 50mm
- Proofs: Waterproof
Steiner’s binoculars are proudly constructed with amazing optics, top-notch durability, and amazing clarity so that you can enjoy crisp, sharp images whether you are close to your target or far away.
These binoculars have a magnification power of 10x, the objective lens is 50mm, and they have a short range of 66’.
If you like to hike or hunt in the rain, you won’t have to worry about a light rainfall damaging your new binoculars as these are waterproof.
Included with your binoculars are a few accessories.
You will get an objective cover, a rain protection cap, and a carrying case.
You can buy Steiner Military-Marine 10X50mm Tactical Binoculars on the Optics Planet official website, here’s a link: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#2 – Zeiss Victory RF Rangefinding Binoculars (Absolute Best Overall)
- Magnification: 10x
- Field of View (FOV): 345’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 6.5″-32.3oz.
- Objective Size: 42mm
- Proofs: Waterproof
The Zeiss Victory RF Rangefinding Binoculars is a top of the line essential tool for your next hunt, hike, or bird watching trip.
These binoculars have a ton of features that make them a truly remarkable piece of equipment.
The first detail that puts these above the pack is that they are Bluetooth compatible and sync with the Zeiss Hunting App.
The technologically advanced binoculars have on-board sensors to help with ballistics.
These binoculars give exact results for the angle, air pressure, distance, and temperature.
The lenses on the Zeiss Victory RF Rangefinding Binoculars are made from high definition glass and feature LotuTec protective coating and T* lens coatings.
Adding to the durability of these binoculars, they are also constructed with a high-grade magnesium frame with a double-link bridge to make them both super durable and lightweight.
You can buy Zeiss Victory RF Rangefinding Binoculars on Bass Pro’s official website, here’s a link: www.BassPro.com
#3 – Vortex Razor HD Binoculars (Best Overall Clarity)
- Magnification: 10x
- Field of View (FOV): 362’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 5.9″ ; 24.8 oz.
- Objective Size: 42mm
- Proofs: Waterproof and fog proof
If you are looking for a truly high-quality set of military-grade binoculars, look no further!
The Vortex Razor HD Binoculars have a ton of great features that make them a smart buy.
The lenses are fully multicoated with an XR anti-reflective substance to provide amazing clarity, color fidelity, superior resolution, and brightness even during low light periods such as dawn and dusk.
On the exterior lenses, the Razor HD has Vortex’s ultrahard ArmorTex coating to protect them from dirt, oil, and scratches.
Not only are the lenses super durable, but they also provide crisp images, color accuracy, and contrast.
Beyond the quality of the lenses, the body of the binoculars is also quite tough.
The rubber armoring adds a layer of protection and gives a nonslip grip.
They also have twist-up eyecups that allow you to customize the eye relief based on what is most comfortable for you.
Finally, the Vortex Razor HD Binoculars are O-ring sealed and purged with argon gas, making them 100% fog proof and waterproof.
You can buy Vortex Razor HD Binoculars on Bass Pro’s official website, here’s a link: www.BassPro.com
#4 – Cabela’s CX Pro HD Rangefinder Binoculars (Best For Hunting)
- Magnification: 10x
- Field of View (FOV): 356’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 6.4”; 35 oz
- Objective Size: 50mm
- Proofs: Waterproof and fog proof
Another technologically advanced pair of binoculars, Cabela’s CX Pro HD Rangefinder Binoculars are the big game hunter’s new best friend.
This device works as 2 tools that are essential if you want a successful hinting trip: a laser rangefinder so you can calculate your stalk and shot, and binoculars so you can search and evaluate your game.
Thanks to the digital nature of these binoculars, you can easily switch between three different reticles and you have your choice of 10 pre-loaded ballistic profiles.
You can stick with your favorite or try out one of several options that are available in MOA or MIL.
The body of the binoculars is rugged and lightweight.
The rubber-armored exterior gives you a sturdy non-slip hold and adds an extra layer of protection if dropped.
One of the best parts about this set of binoculars is that it has ambidextrous ranging buttons so you can operate the device with either hand.
You can buy Cabela’s CX Pro HD Rangefinder Binoculars on Cabela’s official website, here’s a link: www.Cabelas.com
#5 – Nikon Aculon A211 10-22×50 Binoculars (Best Low Budget)
- Magnification: 10-22x
- Field of View (FOV): 199’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 7.8”; 33.9oz
- Objective Size: 50mm
- Proofs: Waterproof
When it comes to finding binoculars with great optics, Nikon is one of the best brands out there.
Known for both camera and sport optics, you are certain to find a top-notch product if you go with Nikon.
The Nikon Aculon A211 10-22×50 Binoculars are no exception!
The lightweight and ergonomic design make these great relaxing at the park bird watching or for spending the day on a hike or hunting trip with your friends or family.
The multilayer-coated optics are made with the Eco-Glass and BaK4 Porro prism system to ensure you get a crystal clear image in all types of lighting situations.
The central focus knob makes it easy to adjust your binoculars while the turn and slide eyecups provide extra comfort.
You can buy Nikon Aculon A211 10-22×50 Binoculars on Dick’s Sporting Goods’ official website, here’s a link: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#6 – Riton Optics X5 Primal 10X42mm Binocular (Best For Size & Weight)
- Magnification: 10x
- Field of View (FOV): 315’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 5.6”; 23oz
- Objective Size: 42mm
- Proofs: Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
Are you on the hunt for a pair of binoculars that are both high-quality and affordable?
Take a look at this set from Riton Optics.
These are one of the best pairs of military-grade binoculars around for a few reasons.
One of the best things about them is that they are quite durable and rugged while staying nice and lightweight, which is ideal if you are going to take your binoculars out on a hike or hunting trip.
They are constructed from a lightweight magnesium alloy frame that can handle rugged applications but they are still able to stay nice and light at just 23oz.
In addition to the sturdiness of the body, these binoculars are also ideal because they can withstand a number of scenarios, including getting caught in the rain or being dropped in a puddle.
The Riton Optics X5 Primal Binoculars are purged and sealed using nitrogen gas, making them waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
You can buy Riton Optics X5 Primal 10X42mm Binocular on the Optics Planet official website, here’s a link: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#7 – Leica Trinovid HD 10×42 Binoculars (2nd Best for Overall Magnification & Clarity)
- Magnification: 10x
- Field of View (FOV): 355’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 5.5”; 25.8 oz
- Objective Size: 42mm
- Proofs: Waterproof and fog proof
The multi-coating of the optics means the Leica Trinovid HD 10×42 Binoculars produce some of the clearest images, with up to 90% light transmission.
Easy to follow or pick out targets at range, the rubber armor, and ergonomic design mean they are comfortable enough to hold for hours.
You can buy Leica Trinovid HD 10×42 Binoculars on Cabela’s official website, here’s a link: www.Cabelas.com
#8 – Steiner Commander 7×50 Military Binoculars (Best For Durability / Ruggedness)
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- Magnification: 7x
- Field of View (FOV): 392’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 12”; 39.7 oz
- Objective Size: 50mm
- Proofs: Waterproof, Shockproof, Slip-proof, and fog proof
The Steiner Commander 7×50 Military Binoculars are a great blend of power and technology to make sure you stay on course when on the water.
The illuminated compass and HD optics provide the best light transmission and directional visibility. The hydrophobic coating keeps the lenses cleaner, longer.
You can buy Steiner Commander 7×50 Military Binoculars on Dick’s official website, here’s a link: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#9 – Swarovski EL Binoculars with Swarovision (2nd Best For Hunting)
- Magnification: 8-10x
- Field of View (FOV): 300’-399’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 5.3”-6.75”; 20.5-35.2 oz
- Objective Size: 42mm-50mm
- Proofs: Waterproof, fog proof, dustproof
If you are looking for binoculars that will set you apart from the pack while hunting, the Swarovski EL Binoculars with Swarovision could be the ones to do it.
They feature a proprietary prism and lens coatings that enhance colors, provide scratch resistance, and provide a non-stick surface to keep dirt and contaminants to a minimum.
The light transmission and contrast of the Swarobright prism coating give you one of the crispest and clear images, even in low light conditions.
Amazing image quality aside, these binoculars are packed with other great features as well.
A buttery smooth focus wheel only takes 1.5 revolutions to go from close to infinite focus.
The EL grips balance the weight in an effortless manner, making steady sighting easier than ever.
You can buy Swarovski EL Binoculars with Swarovision on Bass Pro’s official website, here’s a link: www.BassPro.com
#10 – Barska 7×50 WP Floating Battalion Binoculars with Rangefinder (Best For Boating)
- Magnification: 7x
- Field of View (FOV): 395’ at 1000 yd
- Size: 38.8 oz
- Objective Size: 50mm
- Proofs: Waterproof and sink proof
The Barska WP Floating Battalion are the high-performance military binoculars you have been looking for.
High-quality fully multi-coated options provide vivid and clear imagery.
The large and open ocular lens makes viewing super comfortable.
Personalize your focus requirements with individual eyepieces.
These binoculars are waterproof, they will not sink, and the housing is armored with a rubber coating.
Additionally equipped with internal rangefinder capabilities for use when scouting or tracking.
You can buy Barska 7×50 WP Floating Battalion Binoculars with Rangefinder on Dick’s official website, here’s a link: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
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Conclusion
Whether you need binoculars for navigation, hunting, or tactical maneuvers, there is something for everyone on this list.
From budget entries to top-tier optics, what is best for you depends on your needs.
We have done the comparisons and the breakdowns, so you should be well prepared to choose a pair of binoculars that will meet your needs.
References
He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and has served over 18 years as a communications maintenance technician with three deployments to the Middle East.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in Information System Security with a concentration in Digital Forensics from American Military University.
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