The Vortex Diamondback 10X42 Binoculars Review-Updated 2024
In the ten plus years that I have been a hunter, I have experimented with a vast array of binoculars and other optical instruments. That being said, allow me to introduce you to one of my all-time favorite binoculars, the vortex diamondback 10x42.
Initially, I bought this binocular as a backup. Interestingly, since buying this binocular close to three years ago, I have used it more frequently than I have used my large Celestron 71454 Echelon and for good reasons. So what is it about this vortex diamondback binocular that makes it such a great optical instrument?
Diamondback Now Available in Vortex Diamondback HD Version- 2023 Update
In 2019, Vortex company announced a new, updated Diamondback version. This one has HD in the name. The naming was changed to indicate a better glass quality.
Of course, we pitted the new HD version against the old Diamondbacks. It is interesting to take a look and compare the new HD version to the Diamondback we have known and loved.
The new HD glass has resulted in signicant reduction in chromatic aberration or colour fringing.
Reduction in color fringing leasd edges having greater clarity without green or purple haze.
With the Diamondback HD, when compared to the older model, the overall definition of the image have improved.
It's not something that jumped out at me, but after some careful comparison, the colour and contrast were more punchy, for want of a better word.
Chromatic aberration hasn't been completely eliminated, which we also cant expect in such a price range however, the improvements have been impressive.
Construction
Initial impression was great quality, solid built but not too heavy. Tolerances are all tight with little to no play.
Controls are fairly easy to adjust but are tight enough that they will not move on their own.
Glass is clean and easy to see through. Definitely the weak point of the binoculars, I’ve used other scopes that look much better but for the price it is actually very good
The Diamondback HD is Lightweight and has a heavy-duty magnesium chassis.
Yes, The Diamondback HD has a magnesium body with a rubber coating, not polycarbonate.
Focus Knobs
The new diamondback HD also comes with a more refined focusing knobs. Fiddling with the knobs now feels smoother and easier. The central hinge also feels highly finished and well designed than the previous classic diamondbacks.
Pricing
Surprisingly, the new Diamondback HD costs almost the same as previous vortex diamondback classics.
We consider this a welcome change owing to vast improvements in the glass quality and some excellent ergonomic design changes.
- 10x magnification & 42mm objective lenses, these Diamondback HD binos are optimized with select glass elements to...
- Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces....
- Adjustable eyecups twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. Center focus wheel adjusts the...
New Vortex Diamondback HD Rating
Optical quality: 8.5/10
Comfort: 9/10
Build quality: 8/10
Accessories: 9/10
Value for Money: 9/10
Overall Rating:
Vortex Diamondback Binoculars Specifications
Product Specifications | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Image |  |  |  |
Prism Type | Roof | Roof | Roof |
Magnification | 8.0X | 10.0X | 10.0X |
Objective Lens Diameter/Type | 42 mm/BAK-4 | 42 mm/BAK-4 | 50 mm/BAK-4 |
Angle Of View | 7.5 degrees | 6.3 degrees | 6.0 degrees |
Exit Pupil Diameter | 5.3 mm | 4.2 mm | 5 mm |
Field of View ft@1000yds | 395 ft | 330 ft | 315 ft |
Eye Relief | 17 mm | 15 mm | 17 mm |
Minimum Focus Distance | 5.0 ft/1.5 m | 6.7 ft/2.0 m | 7 ft/2.1 m |
InterPupillary Distance | 55-75 mm | 55-75 mm | 60-75 mm |
Rating and Price |
Great Field of View
The Vortex Diamondback comes in three variants, the 10X32, the 10X42 and the 10X50. Personally, I own the 10X42 variant, which is the subject of this vortex diamondback binoculars review.
The reason why I opted for the 10X42 is that it has a better field of view compared to its siblings. If you know anything about binoculars, then you are aware that a binocular’s field of view depends on its magnification and size of the objective lens. The 10X32 variant has a small field of view because of its small 32 mm objective lens.
On the other hand, though the 10X50 has a larger objective lens it maintains the 10X magnification, which is the cause of its small field of view. This is why the 10X50 has a field of view of 283 ft at 1000 yards while the 10X32 has a field of view of 341 ft at 1000 yards. Contrastingly, my trusted 10X42 has a field of view of 345 ft at 1000 yards.
Comfortable Eye Relief
If you are like me who is very cautious about a binocular’s eye relief and comfort, you will love the 16 mm eye relief of the 10X42 Vortex Diamondback binocular. Compared to the 10X50 version, which has an eye relief of 19mm, the 10X42 is perfect for use with or without eyeglasses. To help you set the right distance, the adjustable eye cups on this binocular have clear markings. On the right eyecup is a locking diopter for twisting the eyecups up and down.
Performance
In regards to performance, the 10X42 Vortex Diamondback is quite the performer. Similar to its siblings, this Diamondback model features a roof prism design. Moreover, all the optics are fully multicoated for improved light transmission. On the other hand, the Bak-4 prisms feature a phase correction coating that enhances contrast and resolution. Thanks to its impressive light transmission capabilities I can use my 10X42 Bino during the day as well as during the night. Also, with this binocular, I can focus on things as close as 5 ft. The focus knob turns smoothly and is large enough for turning with or without gloves.
Rugged Construction
Vortex manufactures its Diamondback binoculars from a high-strength polycarbonate. The latter material is both shockproof and shatter resistant. For improved protection from bumps, falls and knocks, the polycarbonate body of the Diamondback binoculars coated with a rubber Amor.
The New Diamondback HD has a magnesium body with a rubber coating.
Pros of Vortex Diamondback 10X42 Binoculars
- Has a better field of view than its counterparts
- Is an affordable binocular
- Constructed from a high-quality shockproof material
- Can be used early at dawn as well as at dusk
- Is waterproof and fog proof
- All its optics are fully multi-coated
Cons of Vortex Diamondback 10X42 Binoculars
- Holding the binocular with one hand can be challenging
- To use its tripod socket you have to buy the Vortex uni-daptor separately
Features of Vortex Diamondback 10X42 Binoculars
- 10X magnification
- 42 mm objective lens
- Roof prism design
- Fully multicoated optics
- Phase correction coated roof prisms
- Waterproof and fog proof construction
- Tethered objective lens Rainguard covers
- Comfortable neck strap
- Bespoke carrying case
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are the lenses Amortek coated to repel against fog, water, oil, dirt, and fingerprints?
Answer: No, the lenses on the Diamondback 10X42 do not have an Amortek coating; however, the lenses are easy to clean using a microfiber cloth.
- Where is this pair of binoculars made in?
Answer: Though Vortex is a Middleton, Wisconsin based company, its binoculars manufactured in other countries, the Diamondback binoculars made in the Philippines.
- Does this binocular come with a carrying case?
Answer: Yes, Vortex offers this binocular with a custom molded carrying case
Vortex Diamondback Binoculars Video Review-Watch Here
Pricing
The Pricing of the Vortex Diamondback binoculars of the size 10X42 is certainly attractive and appeals worthy to an enthusiast owing to amazing views it can give to you at your next outdoor adventure.
Presently, you could get these impressive set of Binoculars at heavy discounts
The $200 price range is a competitive one where you don’t need to compromise on lots of features while getting the best bang for the bucks spent.
Overall, the Vortex Diamondback excels and provides you the experiences and features usually seen in more pricier $300+ binoculars
Update : As discussed above, The HD glass is a step up and the Vortex Diamondback HDs are the current Vortex model now. You may still be able to find the older models for a while at a discount.
Conclusion
At its price segment, I believe the Vortex Diamondback 10X42 is the best binocular. Not only does it offer the best field of view in its price range, but it is also a great performer. When compared to its counterparts, the 10X42 Diamondback is less costly than the 10X50 and is a better performer than the 10X32. Therefore, the Vortex Diamondback 10X42 offers you the best blend of performance and affordability. Of the many different binocular models I have used, this is one that I strongly recommend to anyone looking for a great and affordable entry-level binocular.
You can also check out our review of other best binoculars for hunting if you are looking for a specific price range and feature.
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Read our comparison of Vortex Diamondback 10x42 vs 10x50 binoculars
Vortex Diamondback Binoculars Review
Oudoor Wildlife Observation
Bird Watching
Hunting
Fishing and Marine Uses
Build Quality
If you love being outdoors, then you must have this feature rich and affordable Vortex Diamondback binoculars
Last update on 2024-11-27
The Diamondback HD has a magnesium body with a rubber coating, not polycarbonate.