I’m ready to upgrade my old Crooked Horn bino-bra to something sturdier and potentially more protective. I’m considering the Alaska Guide Creations (based on past input here) and the FHF Gear unit (based on high marks elsewhere), though am open to other suggestions. Initially I was interested in the Badlands too because of its magnetic closure, but I suspect their gimmicky hydration pouch on the back will end up being quite uncomfortable under a pack. I currently carry a Kahles 10x42 and don’t expect to go much, if any, larger with future optics. I will use the unit for big game and predator hunting, as well as general hiking with the family and Scouts. Below are listed my primary criteria
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Sturdy – I want something well-built that will stand the test of time. Durability is important.
Light weight – I’m already packing enough extra weight courtesy of Budweiser, so I don’t need a bunch of extra weight hanging off my chest.
Quiet – Obviously, being quiet is important. This probably means no zippers.
Compatible with backpack – I usually hunt with a full-size backpack (currently an Eberlestock X1A1), so I need a binocular holding system that will be compatible with a pack on long hikes. That means a harness system that can be worn under pack straps all day long without imprinting permanent divots in my back or shoulders.
Tether – Ideally the binocular would be tethered to the unit so I don’t have to put it back in every time. I do a lot of glassing, sometimes spending hours at one location looking for something to go after. Being able to just leave the bino hang free for short breaks would be an advantage.
Pockets – Small pockets or straps for a wind checker, GPS, rangefinder, hand call, etc. would be nice, as long as they don’t significantly add to the overall bulk of the unit.
So, what say you? Pros and cons of my two options? Something you use that I’ve overlooked? Please share your experience with me.
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Sturdy – I want something well-built that will stand the test of time. Durability is important.
Light weight – I’m already packing enough extra weight courtesy of Budweiser, so I don’t need a bunch of extra weight hanging off my chest.
Quiet – Obviously, being quiet is important. This probably means no zippers.
Compatible with backpack – I usually hunt with a full-size backpack (currently an Eberlestock X1A1), so I need a binocular holding system that will be compatible with a pack on long hikes. That means a harness system that can be worn under pack straps all day long without imprinting permanent divots in my back or shoulders.
Tether – Ideally the binocular would be tethered to the unit so I don’t have to put it back in every time. I do a lot of glassing, sometimes spending hours at one location looking for something to go after. Being able to just leave the bino hang free for short breaks would be an advantage.
Pockets – Small pockets or straps for a wind checker, GPS, rangefinder, hand call, etc. would be nice, as long as they don’t significantly add to the overall bulk of the unit.
So, what say you? Pros and cons of my two options? Something you use that I’ve overlooked? Please share your experience with me.