The Crucial Hunting Investment: Premium Glassing Binoculars
Updating gear is an exciting part of the hunting offseason - the summer. Whether it's for mule deer, elk hunting, or other big game, we hunters are continuously searching for that edge that can make a difference in the field. Gear can play an important role in your success this fall, whether it be things like bows or boots. However, there is one often underestimated item that deserves your attention: a top-quality pair of glassing binoculars.
Side Note: What is "glassing" during hunting?
Simply put, glassing refers to using your glass (binoculars, spotting scope, etc) to locate game at distance. As you can imagine, good glass is critical. Here are a few reasons why investing in a premium pair should be your priority this season.
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Having a clear field of view can be the game-changer you've been missing. Opting for premium glassing binoculars offers exceptional magnification, a wider plane of view, and the ability to see farther in lower light, allowing you to spot game, be it bedded game or game on the move, from a distance.
Additionally, good glass isn't only for spotting things like elk or mule deer far away. Often we use our glass to almost see through dense vegetation while whitetail deer hunting back east.
Finally, premium binoculars aren't just for locating game; they are extremely helpful in identifying specific species, assessing their size/age/gender, and making informed decisions about your targets (e.g., knowing what's beyond them, what could be in the way, etc.) This is, of course, critical if you are to make the most ethical decision in the woods.
Side note: Which binocular magnification is best for deer hunting?
If you're hunting in dense forests or brush where deer are likely to be seen at close range, a lower magnification like 8x could be ideal. Lower magnification binoculars typically have a wider field of view, which can be helpful in these types of environments where you need to quickly locate and track movement.
On the other hand, if you're hunting in wide-open spaces or across long distances, such as in plains or high country, you might prefer to choose from a higher powered binocular, such as 10x or 12x. The higher magnification will provide more detail at longer distances, helping you to spot and identify deer more easily.
We tend to use the classic 10x42s for almost everything we hunt, as they seem to do everything well.
Save Time and Energy:
Quality glassing binoculars also save you time and boot tread. Rather than spending time hiking and covering large swaths of ground looking for deer or bears, you can efficiently start glassing potential hunting areas from a good vantage point.
This enables you to cover more ground visually, identifying areas that show signs of animal activity such as feeding areas and bedding areas. This approach allows you to focus your efforts where they are most likely to be rewarded, optimizing your time, and conserving your energy for the most productive hunting opportunities. It also means you won't blow out an area by walking in and spreading your scent around.
To further enhance your glassing sessions, use a tripod with your binoculars. The steady support of the tripod legs combined with a quality pan head can greatly reduce eye fatigue and make it easier to spot animals. You'll be amazed by how much better your glass seems when it's attached to the top of a tripod.
Appreciate the View:
Investing in high-quality glassing binoculars not only enhances your hunting experience but also deepens your experience in the field. We've spent countless hours looking through our glass at things we aren't hunting, and it's been wonderful.
You can observe tons of amazing wildlife without disturbing their habitat, appreciating their natural behavior and interactions. From the graceful flight of birds to the movement of herds across the landscape, binoculars provide an intimate window into the beauty of the natural world. This is hugely important if you ask us.
Conclusion:
As you gear up for the fall hunting season, don't overlook the importance of investing in top-quality glass. Not only will they help you find more game, but they will also save you time and energy. Quality glass will also deepen your appreciation for the natural world. They're a wonderful thing.
