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Vortex Viper HD 10x42 Review

Vortex has always been one of my favorite brands of binoculars. Unlike other established brands such as Zeiss, Bushnell, and Nikon, Vortex offers high-quality binoculars at reasonable prices.

Thus, it is not surprising that my collection of binoculars dominated by vortex models. Owning a variety of vortex binoculars has made me love the Wisconsin-based manufacturer even more.

Of the many Vortex binoculars that I own, there is one that I consider to be my favorite, the Vortex Viper HD 10x42. This marvel of engineering has been my go-to binocular since I purchased it over four years ago.

There are many reasons why I love the Viper HD 10X42; however, in this review, I will concentrate on the main reasons.

Binoculars Guru's Unbiased Vortex Viper HD 10x42 Review


Impressive image quality


The first time I used the Viper HD 10X42 is awestruck at how stunning the images were.

For this binocular to produce such stunning images, Vortex had to invest quite heavily in its lenses.

Towards this end, Vortex fitted this binocular with high-density HD glass lenses.

These are the kind of lenses that you are likely to find in most high-end binoculars some of which cost twice the Viper HD’s price.

Handling and ease of use


Compared to other similarly priced binoculars, the Vortex Viper HD 10X42 is one of the most comfortable I have ever used.

After using them for an extended period, my arms didn't have the fatigue. This is important for anyone who uses hand-held binoculars frequently. A birding enthusiast on a migratory count, a wildlife observer from an elevated observation stand, sport event fans, and others will attest to this!

It is both lightweight and rugged, and its rubber armour has grooves for improved grip. They provide effective protection from knocking against rocks and trees or drops from any heigh

The eye cups on this binoculars twist up and down to provide a maximum eye relief of 16.5 mm. The eye relief of this binocular is sufficient to accommodate the needs of both glass and non-glass wearers.

The rim of the eyecups, which rests against your face, is rounded and not uncomfortable for those who don't wear eyeglasses.

Optical performance


When it comes to optical performance, the Vortex Viper HD does not disappoint. At its price segment, this binocular offers a fabulous viewing experience thanks to its fully multi-coated optics.

Since it has a roof prism design, its prisms feature a phase corrective and dielectric coating.

I was also pleased with the fact that this binocular maintains its performance in all weather conditions.

Also, images do not loose quality when you hit the 10X magnification mark, which is astonishing for a binocular in this price segment

Rugged construction


The Viper HD is not a high-end binocular; it’s a mid-level binocular that performs like a high-end binocular.

That being said, vortex had to cut costs somewhere. In this regard, Vortex opted for polycarbonate in the construction of this binocular. Polycarbonate is a material used as a low-cost alternative to aluminum, which is the material used to make high-end binoculars.

The polycarbonate body of this binocular covered in a tough rubber armour. Overall, I found this binocular to be lightweight and extremely rugged.

Vortex Vip Warranty


Vortex calls its optics warranty its Very Important Promise (VIP) and it's fully transferrable If you sell your binoculars at later stage

. A receipt or a registration card is not necessary to obtain service under the warranty.

 Vortex will, at its option, repair or replace a damaged binocular. We don't know of a better warranty.

Read more about 2022's best binoculars for hunting Reviews

Pros of Vortex Viper HD 10x42

  • Has a lightweight and ergonomic design
  • Is an affordable pair of binoculars
  • Boasts of a waterproof and fog proof construction
  • Produces stunning and bright images
  • Has a comfortable grip
  • Can use both glass and non-glass wearers
  • Works exceptionally well in low lighting
  • Comes with a nice nylon carrying case

Cons of Vortex Viper HD 10x42

  • Has an average field of view
  • The carrying case is not of the best quality

Features of Vortex Viper HD 10x42

  • 10X magnification
  • 42 mm objective lens
  • Bak-4 roof prisms with dielectric coating
  • XR fully multicoated optics
  • O-ring seals for the lenses
  • Tethered objective lens covers
  • VIP unconditional lifetime warranty
  • 16.5 mm eye relief
  • 8.2 ft close focus

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does this binocular weigh

Answer: The Vortex HD 10X42 has a weight of 24.6 ounces

  • Can this binocular be mounted onto a tripod

Answer: Yes, however, you will require a tripod adapter for mounting it onto a tripod

  • What accessories does this binocular come with?

Answer: This binocular comes with a nylon carrying case and a neck strap

Viper HD Model Different Sizes

There are four sizes of Vipers available. The 10X42 size is most popular among avid birders and hunters. Here’s a full overview of all the sizes.

 8X4210X4210X5012X50
Magnification8x10x10x12x
Objective lens diameter42 mm42 mm50 mm50 mm
Eye relief18 mm17 mm16 mm16 mm
Exit pupil5.25 mm4.2 mm5 mm4.1 mm
Linear field of view409 feet/1000 yards341 feet/1000 yards346 feet/1000 yards288 feet/1000 yards
Angular field of view7.8 degrees6.5 degrees6.6 degrees5.5 degrees
Close focus6.5 feet6.5 feet9.5 feet9.5 feet
Dimensions (height/width)5.6×4.9 inches5.6×4.9 inches6.5×5.2 inches6.5×5.2 inches
Weight24.5 oz24.9 oz28.4 oz28.8 oz
Handheldconvenient to use while movingBetter to use when stationaryNot for long hours handholdingA tripod mount is recommended

Conclusion

The Vortex Viper HD 10X42 is binocular that epitomizes ease of use, portability, and exceptional performance while maintaining a reasonable price tag. In my experience, it 's hard to find a binocular that offers excellent performance, portability and is affordable.

Thus, the Viper HD is in a class of its own, and it is until you buy one that you can truly appreciate this.

Moreover, the construction of this binocular and its ergonomic design make it a versatile binocular.

In conclusion, if you want a binocular that is pocket-friendly without compromising on quality and performance, pick the Viper HD 10X42.

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Smith
 

"Smith is an outdoor enthusiast and Just loves everything about binoculars. Since his childhood he has been a fan of optical gadgets & going into the Jungle with his uncle was his favorite pastime. Besides, He loves watching & studying birds & animals. He is a mechanical engineering graduate and New Jersey Resident. He loves to review binoculars and related optical Instruments and loves testing each one of them." When he is not fiddling with one of his binoculars, you can find him playing his favorite sport Pickleball."

  • Jorja says:

    Thanks for sharing. Your post is a useful cotrnibution.

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