For elk and mule deer hunting, a pair of binoculars is as important as any other hunting gear. Choosing the best binoculars for elk hunting isn’t complicated. For the best results, a binocular with 8x to 12x magnification and an objective lens of 42 to 50mm will suffice.
If you are looking for the best binoculars for elk hunting to carry on the next hunting expedition, you have come to the right place. We have rounded up the best elk-hunting binoculars that provide a perfect balance between value and quality.
Read on and discover the best pair of binoculars to complete your elk hunting gear.
Why Do You Need a Hunting Binoculars?
When hunting, elks are an achievement of a lifetime wish for most hunters. These animals are not only hard to track down but also scarce in population.
When you can track them down and take out one or more successfully, it becomes an experience that you will never forget in your lifetime.
If you are looking to have more rewarding hunting trips this season, invest in the best binoculars for hunting.
A pair of powerful binoculars will help you scan for the elks in long, open fields and improve your chances of catching one even from a distance.
8 Best Binoculars for Elk Hunting
Binoculars will change how you hunt. Binoculars for elk hunting are quite different from regular ones. As you are cautious to pick the best pair for your needs and hunting habits, here is a list of the best models to get you started. Let’s have a look.
1) Nikon Monarch Binoculars
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Elk hunting is a serious endeavor and the Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular is the best equipment for such endeavors. The binoculars deliver lifelike images making it the perfect set of extra eyes to include in your next outing.
It is built to handle any environment and provide the ultimate performance when you need it the most. Harboring impressive features, Nikon Monarch 8×42 Hiking Binoculars are undoubtedly one of the best binoculars for elk hunting for adults.
It benefits from advanced glass and optical coatings that improve image quality in virtually all lighting conditions by maximizing light transmission.
The 8x magnification power brings distant subjects up close while maintaining a wide field of view without any noticeable handshake.
Another highlight of this binocular is the rugged construction. It is made with a reinforced polycarbonate ATB chassis that is durable but lightweight. The chassis is protected by a rubberized armor that has indented palm rests to provide you with a sure, anti-slip grip. Besides, it is nitrogen filled and sealed with O-rings to be fully waterproof, fog proof, and dustproof.
This version of the Monarch 5 is made with ease of use in mind. It has a large center focus wheel that allows for smooth focus control, even while wearing gloves. It also features twist-up eyecups for use with or without eyewear and a tripod mount for hands-free use with a tripod.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass elements
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Large center focusing knob
- Closed bridge configuration
- Reinforced polycarbonate ATB chassis
- Twist-up eyecups
- 8x magnification
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Lightweight and durable
- Easy to use
- Tripod adaptable
Cons
- The lens covers are poorly designed
2) Vortex Optics Diamondback Roof Prism 10×42 Binoculars
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Designed to deliver unmatched power and performance, the Diamondback Roof Prism 10×42 Binoculars are a perfect companion for every hunter out there. It is optimized for hunting and comes with a ton of stunning features that make it one of the best binoculars for elk hunting.
To stand up to the rigors that come with elk hunting, the binocular has a rugged magnesium alloy chassis that is rubber armored. The close bridge design provides a solid platform for the internal focusing mechanism, while the tethered lens caps shield the objective lens from scratches and elements.
Furthermore, the optical tubes are O-ring sealed and argon filled to provide a lifetime of waterproof and fog proof performance. The long 15mm eye relief minimizes strain to allow for comfortable viewing and with the large field of view, you will have an easy time finding the elks from a distance.
The other essential attributes included are eyeglass-friendly twist-up eyecups, Armortek lens coating and fully multi-coated optics that yield bright and crisp image views from dawn to dusk.
Features
- Large center focusing knob
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Twist-up rubber eyecups
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Extra-low dispersion HD optical system
- Rubber armored body
- Magnesium alloy chassis
- 10x magnification
Pros
- Tripod mountable
- Lightweight design
- Crystal clear optics
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not durable
3) Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism 10×42 Binoculars
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Bushnell takes pride in its high-quality optical devices and the Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism 10×42 Binocular is a testament. Combining cutting-edge design and performance, these binoculars will transform your hunting for the better.
It is designed for hunters looking to make the most out of their hunting trips and be better and what they like doing. The 10×42 configuration provides higher magnification and target size in a standard weight that hunters find easy to maneuver within the field.
Besides, the large 42mm objective lens increases low-light performance by drawing in a large amount of light. The optics also feature anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission across the full visible spectrum.
When it comes to construction, the binocular has a hybrid magnesium chassis that is durable and lightweight. The chassis is wrapped with ridge rubber armor which provides a secure grip even when you are wearing gloves.
For all-weather reliability, the binocular is nitrogen filled and waterproofed. It also comes with RainGuard HD water-repellent coating and a distinctive Realtree AP HD camouflage pattern that conceals your position in wilderness settings.
As one of the best binoculars for elk hunting, Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism Binoculars will help hone your hunting skills by spotting elks perfectly. With the resolution and clarity diehard hunters demand, you will have a dependable device for all your outdoor adventures.
Features
- A knurled center focus wheel
- BaK4 roof prisms
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Hybrid magnesium chassis
- RainGuard HD water-repellent coating
- 10x magnification
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Inexpensive
- Bright and crisp optics
- Easy to hold and use
Cons
- Breaks easily
4) Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 Binoculars
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The Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 Binocular is the most versatile binoculars for the money. This binocular has a redesigned ergonomic chassis that makes it easy to operate and comfortable to hold during long glassing sessions.
Stunning HD viewing with outstanding color control and phase correction makes this binocular stand out as one the best binoculars for elk hunting. The selling point of these full-size binoculars is their optical performance.
It boasts compact Schmidt-Pechan roof prisms, SCHOTT extra-low dispersion glass, and proprietary multi-coatings. These technologies and elements work together to give you an immersive observation experience with bright and crisp views.
Construction-wise, the binocular is made of a fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate chassis to reduce weight without sacrificing strength as well as impact and temperature resistance. The chassis is covered in shock-absorbing rubber armor and is fully waterproof and fog proof for use in all types of weather conditions.
Furthermore, this pair of binoculars comes with a large center wheel for fast, simple focusing, and a close bridge configuration. It also brings to the table twist-up rubber eyecups for comfortable use with or without spectacles.
Features
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Schmidt-Pechan roof prisms
- Closed-bridge configuration
- Twist-up rubber eyecups
- Large center-focusing wheel
- Fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate chassis
- 10x magnification
Pros
- Lightweight, compact design
- Solid construction
- Easy to operate
- Crisp clear optics
Cons
- Short eye relief
5) Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide HD 10x50mm Roof Prism Binoculars
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As one of the best binoculars for elk hunting, the Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide HD 10x50mm binoculars are built and ready for use in any environment. This binocular will hone your hunting skills and increase your odds of having a successful trip each time you set foot in the hunting field.
It is made with a Twilight Max HD Light Management System that yields bright and vivid images throughout the entire objective. The system paired with the large 50mm objective lens optimizes low-light performance by collecting as much light as possible.
Furthermore, this pair of binoculars are built to be virtually indestructible. It consists of durable aluminum housing that is rigid enough to withstand whatever punishment you subject it to. Better yet, it is shrouded in a rubber armor coating that provides a positive grasp even in wet environments.
For comfortable viewing with or without eyewear, the binocular has eyecups that twist up to provide generous eye relief. It is also designed to provide absolute waterproof and fog-proof integrity and provide a clear view of targets irrespective of what nature has in store for your hunt.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses system
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- BaK4 prisms
- Twist-up eyecups
- Waterproof and fog proof construction
- Rubber-armored aluminum body
- 10x magnification
Pros
- Smooth focusing system
- Spectacular picture quality
- Good low-light visibility
- Optimized for hunting
Cons
- A little heavy
6) Athlon Optics Midas Gen II UHD 12x50mm Roof Prism Binoculars
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Athlon is a renowned optics brand that makes quality and cost-effective optical devices. The Midas Gen II UHD 12x50mm Roof Prism Binoculars are the rugged benchmark for brightness, clarity, and stellar performance in all lighting and weather conditions.
No matter the environment you find yourself in while the in the hunting fields, this binocular will always deliver. It has a waterproof construction that makes it safe to use even when it is raining. It also has a shockproof design and rubber armor that gives you a secure grip in all environments.
To complement the rugged construction are extra-low dispersion glass lenses that yield stunning resolution and color accuracy. furthermore, the binocular features high-quality BaK4 prisms that work in tandem with the fully multi-coated optics to gather maximum light and produce clear and bright image views.
The other design enhancement included is XPL lens coating that shields the exterior lenses from dust, scratches, and elements. This set of binoculars also comes with improved twist-up eyecups and argon-purged optical tubes.
Exceptional clarity, sharp images, and excellent field of view are the perks that make this binocular stand out among the best binoculars for elk hunting. Gear up for your best elk hunting expedition yet with top-quality binoculars.
Features
- High 10x magnification power
- Extra-low dispersion glass lenses
- Waterproof and argon purged
- Fully multi-coated optics
- XPL lens coatings
- Durable magnesium chassis
- High-quality BaK4 prisms
Pros
- Versatility
- Easy to use
- Great low-light visibility
- Solid construction
Cons
- Heavy
7) Athlon Optics Neos G2 HD 10x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars
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The Athlon Optics Neos G2 HD 10x42mm Binoculars are engineered for performance even in rough and unforgiving conditions. It is the perfect tool for elk hunting and an ideal companion for other outdoor activities.
Optically, this pair of roof prism binoculars benefits from fully multi-coated optics and silver-coated BaK4 prims. The coatings increase light transfer and limit internal light loss to provide bright image views. These coatings when combined with the large 42mm aperture produce clear and vivid sight pictures from dawn to dusk.
To further enhance your observation experience, the binocular is designed with a wide field of view that also minimizes the distracting handshake that is common when you are using high-powered binoculars. You can also mount it on a tripod for easy hands-free use.
Another impressive thing about the binocular is the construction details. It is made with a durable composite chassis material and rubber armored to provide a slip-resistant grip. The
The optical tubes are filled with nitrogen and O-ring sealed to be fully weatherproof. Also included are tethered objective lens caps to protect the lens from scratches and elements.
Athlon 10×42 Neos G2 HD Roof Prism Binoculars rank high as one of the best binoculars for elk hunting for budget buyers. With a ton of impressive features, this binocular will help you scout elks in the hunting grounds comfortably.
Features
- Twist-up eyecups
- Large center focusing knob
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Wide 60° apparent angle of view
- Closed bridge configuration
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Strong composite chassis
- 10x magnification power
Pros
- Lightweight, ergonomic design
- Tripod mountable
- Clear lens
- Quality construction
Cons
- No drawbacks
8) Leica Geovid-R 10x42mm Rangefinder Binoculars
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The Leica Geovid-R 10x42mm Rangefinder Binoculars are the best binoculars for elk hunting for seasoned hunters looking to take their hunting skills a notch higher. This device fuses the stunning image quality of an optical path that is fully multi-coated with the practicality of a 1200-yard laser rangefinder.
This binocular displays the distance to a target in yards and is simple to operate using the convenient single push button. Using the infrared laser rangefinder and the integrated inclinometer will help you take shots more precisely even when the target is on an elevated angle.
Moreover, the binocular is built to last. It has a durable aluminum alloy chassis that is waterproof and nitrogen filled. The body is then wrapped in protective armor that shields the optics from damage and gives you a slip-resistant grip.
The other essential features included are a wide 63° apparent angle of view, two-position twist-up eyecups and a large center focus wheel that is knurled.
Features
- Compact roof prisms
- 10x magnification
- Aluminum alloy chassis
- IR laser rangefinder with inclinometer
- HDC fully multi-coated optics
- Waterproof, fog proof, and submersible to 5m
- Twist-up click-stop eyecups
Pros
- Easy focusing mechanism
- Simple one-button design
- Bright and clear glass
- Great rangefinder
Cons
- Pricey
Read Also
- 6 Best Vortex Binoculars for Hunting
- 9 Best Image Stabilized Binoculars
- 6 Best Leupold Scopes for Elk Hunting
- 7 Best Nightforce Scopes for Elk Hunting
How to Choose the Best Binoculars for Elk Hunting
Having the right gear goes a long way in streamlining your hunting experience. Choosing the right device isn’t a complicated process. All you need is the right information to help you in the selection process. Highlighted below are the main considerations to keep in when choosing an elk hunting binocular:
Magnification
The first thing to consider is magnification. For elk hunting, full-size binoculars with 10x or 12x are the best choice.
They bring you closer to the elks that are far while maintaining a wide field of view that is essential when hunting.
Such a binocular magnification power also minimizes the distracting handshake that people encounter when using high-powered binoculars.
Objective Lens
When you are hunting elks, you will need a pair of binoculars that comes with a large objective lens. The larger the lens is, the more light it collects for optimal brightness even in low-lighting conditions.
Generally, binoculars with 40 to 50mm are ideal for elk hunting. Anything larger than 50mm makes the binoculars cumbersome to carry around.
Weatherproof
The best binoculars for elk hunting are built and ready for use in all weather conditions. The optical tubes are O-rings sealed to keep moisture, dust and any other debris from the optics.
They are also built to be operable in a wide range of temperatures and filled with an inert gas that keeps the lenses free of fog.
Weight
For elk hunting, lightweight binoculars that offer the right balance between portability and ease of use go a long way to ensure that you have a great time in the field.
Heavy binoculars might be durable, but the weight they add makes them less ideal for hunting. A tip is to get a product that weighs less than 2 pounds.
Durability
Next, consider the build quality of the binoculars. The best binoculars for elk hunting are engineered to perform under any condition.
They have a rugged chassis made from either aluminum or magnesium alloy. They also come with shock-absorbing rubber armor that gives you a sure, antis-slip grip in all environments.
Lens Coatings
Lens coatings play an important role in light transmission. The more layers are applied, the higher the rate of light transmission will be.
Besides, they limit the internal light loss and glare to provide bright and color-accurate image views even in low lighting conditions.
Go for binoculars that have ED/HD glass and fully multi-coated lenses if you want the best of the best when it comes to image brightness and vividness.
Best Binoculars for Elk Hunting: FAQs
Q: What Binocular Magnification Do I Need for Elk Hunting?
8x to 12x. Binoculars with 8x to 12x magnification power offer the right balance between power and performance. 8x binoculars are best for hunting elks in dense brush, while 10x and 12x models are more appropriate for hunting in long, open fields.
Q: Are 12x Binoculars Good for Hunting?
Yes. The high magnification makes 12x binoculars quite helpful when you are hunting games in long ranges. They bring you closer to the action and improve your hunting success even in the most unforgiving hunting environments.
Conclusion
A quality pair of binoculars makes elk hunting much simpler. With both eyes open, you can search for the game effortlessly in any hunting environment.
All the binoculars we have listed above have the essential features you require to improve your hunting success and be a better hunter. Irrespective of the binoculars you end up choosing, we do hope that this post has been of immense help.