VortexOptics Viper HD Roof Prism Binoculars 8x42

I ordered these (at 8x42 power) after reading and listening to all the overwhelmingly positive reviews. Some reviewers even claim that the Vortex Viper binoculars are as close as one can get to Swarovski EL's under $2k. Well, yes, I have found them to provide clear, crisp, bright optics--no doubt about it. However, I compared them to my Monarch 5 and Pentax SD's--also at 8x42--and frankly, I cannot really tell a major difference. The Monarchs and Pentax are all in the $200-$250 price range, while the Vipers are double that. The Vipers are heavier than the Monarchs and I cannot tell which one is brighter after countless comparative tests. (The Pentax are slightly less bright.) I feel that the Viper beats the Pentax by a very very slight edge, but it was a tie with the Monarch 5's. The Vipers felt a bit lighter than the Pentax, but significantly heavier than the Monarchs. The Vipers come with superior accessories--the carry case in particular is way better and even comes with a harness. Of the three, the Pentax has the lousiest accessories, especially the objective lens caps-- utter crap on the Pentax. The caps on the Viper and Monarch 5, both attached to the lens barrels, are equal.So, what to conclude? Did I pay an extra $200 for a better carry case and a harness? Don't get me wrong--these are excellent binoculars. The quality of the optics cannot be denied. But I found the Monarch 5 optics just as good, and the Pentax only a smidgen behind. If there is an optical difference between the Viper and the Monarch 5, I couldn't tell. If you are looking for excellent mid-range binoculars and need to save some cash, go with the Monarch 5's. If money is no object, sure, get the Viper. They feel very solid in the hands.

These 8x42 HD Binoculars are excellent for bird watching. You can focus to as close as five feet. The binoculars relatively light and are waterproof. The is a diopter to adjest your right eye for accurate focus with both eyes. The price for these high-quality binoculars is lower than I've paid for other equivalent binoculars.

I did a lot of research on binoculars in this price range and everything pointed to the Vortex Vipers. I found them to have a very clear image and the build quality appeared to be excellent. A relative who does extensive big game hunting swears by Vortex and says they stand behind their lifetime warranty.

These are so nice. Very clear and clean view. I have a pair of Swarovski from 25 years ago I paid $2000 for and these are better.

Love the clarity for bird watching. However the case is overkill for daily use or casual use. Would be better for a longer hunt or hike, but I would bring a higher magnification in those circumstances. I wish that the case converted to allow for side carry and that it had clips instead of having to thread it through. It takes a lot of time to set up. The mesh pockets are too small and delicate for more than a lens cleaning wipe. The weight of the binoculars is a decent balance, but the neck strap/case could be more comfortable. Chest carry can be cumbersome for a woman.

8x42 birding/general use glasses. Delivered by Amazon damage-free (sigh of relief). Clear and vividly bright image. Appear to be sturdily constructed. A delight to use, even in lowlight conditions. I look forward to viewing the night sky with these glasses in a low light-pollution area. I should be able to subject my Viper’s to hard use without fear: Vortex claims to have one of the best binocular warranty’s you’ll find at any price point.

I was impressed with the clarity and brightness of the Vipers. Did a little research and the 409' field of view @1000 yards plus the great reviews here helped me make my decision to choose the Vipers in 8x42. I use them mostly for birding. I like that Vortex stands behind their products, that is important to me.

These are amazing. When I tell people how much a good pair of binoculars cost they’re always surprised. But the difference in color and clarity is so apparent. We tested these against the Monarchs which are the go to birders binoculars for birders who are getting serious about birding. There is absolutely no comparison. Some day I hope to be able to buy the $1,000 Vipers. But so far these are better than every other pair I’ve tried. And the warranty is the best in the industry! Worth every penny