With hunting season coming up soon, we know that many readers will be out in the field — with a set of binoculars. On most game hunts, you’ll speed a lot more time glassing with binocs than looking through your riflescope. With wide field of view and extended low-light capability, a good set of binoculars will be your most important game-finder. And with premium LRF binoculars, such as the ZEISS Victory series, one tool serves both for spotting and laser ranging.
“Without the stabilization of your binoculars [provided by] a tripod … you will be missing a majority of the game you are glassing for.” — Outdoorsmans.com
In this article, Vortex Optics’ Mark Boardman, an experienced hunter, explains the benefits of using a tripod with high-magnification binoculars. Everybody knows that powerful spotting scopes work best when mounted to a stable tripod or otherwise secured to a steady mount. Yet when most folks use binoculars, they never even think of using a tripod, despite the fact that tripod adapters are available for many premium binoculars.
Outdoorsmans Tripod Adapters Outdoorsmans.com sells tripod adapters for various kinds of binoculars. These really work: “Mounting your binoculars to a quality tripod is a must for the serious western hunter. Without the stabilization of your binoculars [by] mounting them to a tripod … you will be missing a majority of the game you are glassing for.”
A serious hunter should learn how to glass with tripod support, using methods outlined here. With binoculars offering more that 8X magnification, you can really benefit from a steady mount. You’ll be amazed at the difference the tripod will make.
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If you need any kind of optics, head over to Sportsman’s Warehouse this month. There are big savings on riflescopes, spotting scopes, laser rangefinders, binoculars, Red Dot sights, tripods and more. Plus, with this Sportsman’s exclusive Leupold Gold Event you get valuable Gift Cards with each purchase of $100 or more. These Gift Cards can be used to purchase additional merchandise at any Sportsman’s Warehouse store or online at Sportsmans.com. The max Gift Card Value is $300.00. And you can get combined Gift Card value for multiple Leupold purchases. For example, get up to a $230 Gift Card with a Leupold VH6-HD riflescope and get a $180 Gift Card with a Leupold SX-5 Spotting Scope.
Sportsman’s Warehouse Gift Cards up to $300 in Value
You can profit TWO ways during the Leupold Gold Event. First, you can save 20% or more, with major discounts on scopes, spotting scope, binoculars, LRFs, tripods and more. Second — pay attention here folks — when you buy Leupold products you can get additional FREE Sportsman’s Gift Cards worth up to $300. For qualifying Leupold products you get $10 in Gift Card Value for every $100 you spend. So, for example, if you buy a Leupold SX-4 spotting scope for $649.99 on SALE you’ll get a $60 Gift Card. These Gift Cards can be used dollar for dollar for other purchases at Sportsman’s Warehouse.
Leupold Ultimate Hunting Package $16,000+ Contest
The 2022 Leupold Gold Event includes a major give-away contest with over $16K in prizes. Enter to win an Ultimate Hunting Package with gear from Leupold, Christensen Arms, Hornady, Garmin, Zamberlan, Killik, Benchmade, Kodiak Canvas, Lost Creek, Traeger, and MTN OPS. The total prize package is worth over $16,000.00.
Leopold states: “This prize package not only comes with the best riflescope, rangefinder, binoculars, and accompanying products from Leupold but also dozens of other high-end products from top collaborating brands. Get everything you need for a fully outfitted hunt, including a full camo system, pellet grill, canvas tent, and more[.]”
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With hunting season underway (or coming up soon), we know that many readers will be out in the field — with a set of binoculars. On most game hunts, you’ll speed a lot more time glassing with binocs than looking through your riflescope. With wide field of view and extended low-light capability, a good set of binoculars will be your most important game-finder. And with premium LRF binoculars, such as the new Vortex Fury, one tool serves both for spotting and laser ranging.
“Without the stabilization of your binoculars [provided by] a tripod … you will be missing a majority of the game you are glassing for.” — Outdoorsmans.com
In this article, Vortex Optics’ Mark Boardman, an experienced hunter, explains the benefits of using a tripod with high-magnification binoculars. Everybody knows that powerful spotting scopes work best when mounted to a stable tripod or otherwise secured to a steady mount. Yet when most folks use binoculars, they never even think of using a tripod, despite the fact that tripod adapters are available for many premium binoculars.
Outdoorsmans Tripod Adapters Outdoorsmans.com sells tripod adapters for various kinds of binoculars. These really work: “Mounting your binoculars to a quality tripod is a must for the serious western hunter. Without the stabilization of your binoculars [by] mounting them to a tripod … you will be missing a majority of the game you are glassing for.”
A serious hunter should learn how to glass with tripod support, using methods outlined here. With binoculars offering more that 8X magnification, you can really benefit from a steady mount. You’ll be amazed at the difference the tripod will make.
Story tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Mc3 Stocks — 20% Off All Stocks and Accessories
Here’s a great oppotunity — get 20% Off all Mc3 products during the April Stay Healthy 2020 Sale. Do you have a rifle you’ve been wanting to upgrade? You can get 20% off EVERYTHING in the McMillan Mc3 store. Save on Hunting Stocks, Tactical Stocks, Bottom Metal, Magazines and other accessories IMPORTANT: To save 20% use Code STAYHEALTHY during checkout. Thanks to ELR Researcher for this tip.
2. Precision Reloading — HUGE Clearance Up to 50% Off
Precision Reloading is running a Big Clearance on a wide range of products including bullets, loaded ammo, reloading tools, dies, holsters, storage boxes, and more. You find some truly great deals, with many items up to 50% off. There are over 400 items on sale, including Berger, Barnes, and Nosler Bullet Sample Packs, cleaning kits, and more.
3. FREE FL Die Set with RCBS MatchMaster Dispenser
Have you been wanting to try the impressive new RCBS MatchMaster powder dispenser but you’ve been waiting for a special deal? RCBS is now offering a FREE Die Set Promo. Purchasers of a MatchMaster Scale/Dispenser qualify for a free set of MatchMaster Dies, with a $185.00 MSRP. This Promotion applies to MatchMaster machines purchased from any retailer including Amazon, Graf & Sons, and Midsouth Shooters. After completing your purchase, submit the RCBS Redemption Form to get your FREE set of MatchMaster FL dies. Die sets for 23 different cartridge types are available. MORE INFO HERE.
4. Midsouth — Aguila .22 LR Ammunition in-stock
Has the recent run on supplies got you thinking that you could use some more rimfire ammo? Well Midsouth Shooters has a full selection of reliable Aguila .22 LR ammunition at very affordable prices. A wide variety of Aguila .22 LR rimfire ammo is currently in-stock and ready to ship.
5. Bruno Shooters — McMillan Stock Sale
McMillan makes some of the best stocks available, with proven designs for just about any discipline or action type. If you’ve been in the market for a new stock, head over to Bruno Shooters Supply. Bruno’s has discounted a wide selection of McMillan stocks including popular tactical, hunting, and benchrest stock designs. Save money and avoid the manufacturer’s waiting period.
6. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Savage AXIS II w/scope, $399.99
If you’re in the market for a good basic rifle packaged with a 3-9x40mm scope, here’s a great deal. Sportsman’s Warehouse has the Savage Axis II with optic for just $399.99!. Currently this package deal is offered with 12 different chamberings including the popular .223 Rem, .243 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, and .30-06 SPR. This is a great value for a basic hunting rig.
7. Natchez — Bushnell Gold Binoculars, $49.99
We love high-end binoculars, but it makes sense to have a lower-cost set of binoculars that you might keep as a spare, lend to a friend on request, or use on camping trips. Right now Natchez is selling Bushnell 8x42mm Custom Gold Binoculars for the crazy low price of only $49.99. Hard to beat that price (under fifty bucks) for a brand name optic.
8. Amazon — Tactical Survival Knife, $18.95
Good knives are vital tools, particularly during times of crisis. When we saw this cool tactical survival knife for only $18.95 we couldn’t resist sharing. With a G10 handle and full tang design this tactical chopper is equally at home around the shop as it is out in the field. The knife features a serious square-front 3.5″ blade, and ships with a rugged nylon carry sheath. Choose either Black or Silver, both with 3mm-thick stainless steel blades. A this price you could grab a pair — one in each color.
Are you sitting around in Coronavirus lockdown trying to figure out what to do? How about organizing your reloading area with these handy wall-mounted storage bins. At just $24.97 for 30 units — nearly 50% Off the regular price — this storage set is a great bargain. Use these for bullets, brass, ammo boxes, small tools — you name it. At this price you can get all those odds and ends put in their place and be ready for when the world gets back to normal.
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It’s hunting season in many areas of the country already. If you’re planning a fall hunt you want to do your homework — make sure your gear is checked out, your rifle zeroed, and your hunting grounds plotted. You’ll want to sight in your rifle, get the right clothing, make sure you have your hunting license, deer tags, and other needed paperwork.
Cabela’s has a ton of helpful information for hunters on its Deer Nation website. You’ll find numerous videos as well as articles from expert guides and experienced hunters.
This episode of Cabela’s Whitetail Season highlights ground hunting. While some hunters prefer a stand, the cover provided by the background and tall grasses can help with your stalks.
In this video, Bill Winke, host of Midwest Whitetail, shows how he hunts over small food plots.
Cabela’s Deer Nation portal offers over 100 informative articles for hunters. Here are six of our favorite features:
We all know Zeiss makes good optics, and now you can save $50-$150 on Zeiss binoculars or Zeiss riflescopes. As part of the Zeiss Summer Field Days promotion, Zeiss is offering $50.00 cash back on select scopes and binoculars (and $150.00 on the Victory HD binos). Hunters may want to take advantage of this offer for the CONQUEST HD5, and Victory HT Scopes with RAPID-Z ballistic reticles. Those are nice optics. To claim the rebate, purchase eligible products between 7/1 and 8/31/2015 at any participating ZEISS Authorized Dealer, then visit the Zeiss Online Rebate Center to register your rebate. Be sure to save your product receipts.
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If you’re thinking of spending thousands of dollars on a new rifle scope or spotting scope, do your homework first. You need to understand key design features, such as first focal plane vs. second focal plane, and turret click values. You should learn about light transmission, resolution, and other factors that distinguish a great optic from a not-so-great one. You also need to analyze your specific requirements before making a buying decision: How much magnification do you really need? Is illumination important? How much scope weight can you reasonably tolerate?
Sport Optics, a new book by Alan Hale, helps you answer all these important questions. Hale, former CEO of Celestron Optics, has more than 50 years of experience in the optics industry. His book, Sport Optics, is an up-to-date, comprehensive guide to Riflescopes, Spotting Scopes, and Binoculars. Hale surveys products from dozens of domestic and foreign manufacturers. Hale explains, in easy-to-understand terms, the technical jargon used by optics-makers. This helps buyers make informed decisions.
The new book is full of good, sound advice. Respected gun writer Chuck Hawks says: “Alan Hale has impeccable credentials in the optics industry. Sport Optics is written for the layman in a clear, understandable and interesting manner.” Bill Thompson, co-publisher of Bird Watcher’s Digest adds: “Alan Hale is one of the Zen masters of sport optics[.] He knows more about how optics work, how and where they are made, and how to put them to their highest possible use than most outdoor sport optics writers. Read this book before you make any optics purchase[.]”
FREE Book Preview at Amazon.com
The Sports Optics book is offered at Amazon.com for $21.95. To preview the book, go to the Amazon web page for Sports Optics, and click the cover photo that says “Look Inside”. This lets you see front and back covers, complete table of contents, and many sample pages (such as those shown below):
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A while back your Editor was in New Mexico, on a prairie dog expedition. While in the field, my companions and I used two pairs of Steiner 8x30mm Military/Marine binoculars to spot the critters. Finding the Prairie Dogs (PDs) could be challenging in the high grass. Often, a PD would reveal only its head — a small target at distances approaching 400 yards. We really needed sharp optics with high contrast to spot the dogs hiding behind tufts of grass or dry brush.
The Steiner Military/Marine binoculars performed superbly. I came away very impressed with these armored 8x30mm binoculars. The glass is bright and super-sharp. And the rubber-armored body is truly rugged. These binoculars offer both right and left diopters — important for me as my right eye requires more correction than the left eye. One great feature of the Steiners is the focusing system which keeps everything you can see in focus. This really is a big deal. You don’t have to constantly fiddle with focus — everything past about 20 yards is in sharp focus all the time. As one Steiner owner reports: “Focusing set-up is worth the price of admission. Set it and forget. Amazing. This single feature makes these worth owning.” And the sharpness is impressive. I compared the Steiners’ image with a 6.5-20×40 Leupold EFR riflescope set at 8X. Both 8×30 Steiners were brighter than the Leupold scope, and the Steiners resolved individual blades of grass and fine details better than the Leupold. Of course, comparing a binocular optic with a riflescope is like comparing apples and oranges. The advantages of binoculars (compared to a monocular scope) are well known — the brain combines the two images (left eye and right eye) to create a more vivid, 3D effect, with greater perceived contrast.
Good Binoculars are a “Must-Have” Item for Hunters
After three days in the prairie dog fields I came away convinced that a good set of binoculars is absolutely essential for any varmint hunter. As the PD population was fairly thin where we were shooting, we probably spent five minutes glassing for every minute actually behind the trigger. Over 90% of the dogs were first spotted with binos rather than riflescopes. We had a fixed (non-rotating) bench so it was difficult to swing the rifle more than about 30° from one side to another (60° total arc). With the binoculars, and their wide field of view, we could quickly scan a much wider arc.
Steiner 8×30 Military/Marine Binocs are Just $227.98
At the end of our hunt, I told my host that I planned to purchase a Steiner 8×30 Military/Marine Binocular just like the one we used during our hunt. When I arrived home I was amazed to see that the Steiner 8×30 Military/Marine is available for just $227.98 on Amazon.com, with free shipping for Prime members. That’s a great value, considering the ruggedness and optical quality of the unit.
The 10×50 Steiner Military/Marine is also offered on Amazon.com. It has more magnification and better low-light performance. However, it currently runs about $489.98, more than twice the price of the 8×30 Military/Marine! Unless you really need the 10×50’s extra low-light capability, the 8×30 M/M is the smart choice.
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As a Father’s Day Promotion, Bushnell is offering rebates on Trophy XLT and H20 full-size binoculars and a GPS tracker for hikers/hunters. CLICK HERE to learn more about these “Deals for Dad” which are valid from today (May 11, 2013) through June 16, 2013.
Promo found by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
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Camera Land has announced a remarkable Combo Optics Sale on Minox Optics products. If you purchase a qualifying Minox rifle scope from Camera Land, you can get a Minox Binocular or Minox Monocular for just one penny more. Yes, that’s correct, add your choice of four Minox BF Binocular models or the MD 8×42 CWP Monocular for just $.01. That’s an awesome deal — consider that the Minox BF 10×42 binocular (by itself) sells for $150.00-$199.00 elsewhere. Note: Purchasers are limited to a single $0.01 Binocular or Monocular per new riflescope ordered.
New ZA 3 and ZA 5 Minox Scopes Are Good Buys
These are current production, quality scopes. The new Minox line of riflescopes is impressive, with German Schott glass, strong monotube construction, and a no-fault, lifetime warranty. Just last week we reviewed the new Minox ZA 5 6-30x56mm scope and concluded it offers an impressive set of features for the price. Retailing for $799.00 to $829.99 (depending on reticle) the 6-30X ZA 5 is an outstanding value for a high-magnification, side-focus, 30mm-tube scope with premium glass. The 6-30X ZA 5 is more than two hundred bucks cheaper than a Leupold VXIII 8-25x50mm LRT, yet the Minox offers more magnification, plus a true diopter eyepiece not found on the Leupold. The Minox scopes from Camera Land even come with a Scopecoat cover at no extra cost.
Camera Land reports very positive buyer feedback on the new Minox ZA-3 and ZA-5 riflescopes: “We’ve sold a ton of these. Buyers tell us they are impressed with the glass and the overall quality. These scopes hold zero, the controls are positive, the warranty is great. The Minox rifle scopes are an excellent value right now.”
How to Purchase Minox Scope with Companion Optic
NOTE: Not all binocular/monocular options for this promo are displayed on the Camera Land web site. To secure the companion binocular/monocular you want with your Minox rifle scope: 1) Call 212-753-5128 and speak with Doug or Neil, or 2) Purchase the scope you want, select the one binocular shown to be offered, and in the note area of the order type in “Minox Promotion” and list the binocular/monocular you prefer. To keep it simple, we recommend you just call Doug at 212-753-5128 and ask about the Minox “Penny Promo”. Please mention AccurateShooter.com. Doug can take your order or he can send you a Paypal invoice listing the Minox rifle scope the Binocular/Minocular of your choice.
Open Box Bargains on Minox Rifle Scopes
In addition to the 1 cent combo sale, Camera Land has some great “open box” bargains on Minox rifle scopes. Open Box #66030 ZA-5 4-20×50 Plex (#66030) have been discounted from $699.00 to only $449.99. Likewise Open Box ZA-5 3-15×42 Plex (#66020) have been discounted from $499.00 to $319.99. NOTE: All open box items may not be listed on the Camera Land website. Call 212-753-5128 and speak with Doug or Neil about these special discounted items.
Promo Tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
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Through the end of this year (2012), Steiner is offering substantial rebates on a wide variety of Steiner binoculars. This year’s rebates range from $30 to $200, for the 27 Steiner binoculars listed below. To get your rebate, complete the Steiner Cash for Glass Rebate Coupon and send it, along with your original sales receipt and original UPC barcode, to: Steiner Cash for Glass Rebate, MPS Dept. No. 446-STNCASH 2012, P.O. Box 3250, Cinnaminson, NJ 08077.
Note: No photocopies or mechanical reproductions of UPC barcode or sales receipt will be accepted. Mail must be signed and postmarked by January 31, 2013, and received by February 15, 2013, to be eligible for the rebate. Offer valid in USA only, and limited to one claim (rebate) per household.
Promo tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
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OpticsPlanet.com has a vast selection of riflescopes, spotting scopes, binoculars, red dot sights, and rangefinders. But OpticsPlanet sells much more than just optics. You’ll also find compasses, knives, flashlights, sunglasses, even hunting boots and outdoor clothing. And now you can get $35.00 off with any order of $300.00 or more. What’s more, OpticsPlanet provides FREE UPS Ground shipping to the contiguous 48 states on most orders over $29.95. To save on your OpticsPlanet.com order, use Coupon Code 69B8A7F during online check-out. (Some restrictions apply).
Steiner Binoculars Offer Good Value While you’re shopping Optics Planet, check out the Steiner Military Marine 8×30 Binoculars ($249.00) and 7×50 Marine Binoculars ($324.99). This Editor has used these binoculars on hunts and hikes, and they offer excellent performance for the price. Steiner binoculars, with their wide porro-prism design, may seem old-fashioned, but don’t let that put you off. At SHOT Show an executive of a competing optics maker told us: “The porro-prism offers great field of view and depth of field at 7-8X power. You can produce a better optic at a lower price with this porro-prism design. However, we don’t use the porro-prism in our binoculars because we think consumers prefer the narrow styling of roof prism [straight lens body] designs.”
If styling were not a controlling factor, you’d see more porro-prism binoculars. Experts says that porro-prism binoculars will produce a brighter image than roof-prism binoculars of the same magnification, objective size, and optical quality, because the roof-prism design employs silvered surfaces that reduce light transmission by 12% to 15%. Roof-prisms designs also require tighter alignment tolerances for their optical elements (collimation). This adds to their expense since the design requires the use of fixed elements that need to be set at a high degree of collimation at the factory.
Discount Code Tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
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Outdoorsmans Tripod Adapters
If you’re thinking of spending thousands of dollars on a new rifle scope or spotting scope, do your homework first. You need to understand key design features, such as first focal plane vs. second focal plane, and turret click values. You should learn about light transmission, resolution, and other factors that distinguish a great optic from a not-so-great one. You also need to analyze your specific requirements before making a buying decision: How much magnification do you really need? Is illumination important? How much scope weight can you reasonably tolerate?
A while back your Editor was in New Mexico, on a prairie dog expedition. While in the field, my companions and I used two pairs of 
Steiner 8×30 Military/Marine Binocs are Just $227.98
As a Father’s Day Promotion, Bushnell is offering rebates on Trophy XLT and H20 full-size binoculars and a GPS tracker for hikers/hunters. 
Through the end of this year (2012), Steiner is offering substantial rebates on a wide variety of Steiner binoculars. This year’s rebates range from $30 to $200, for the 27 Steiner binoculars listed below. To get your rebate, complete the Steiner 
While you’re shopping Optics Planet, check out the Steiner Military Marine 8×30 Binoculars ($249.00) and 7×50 Marine Binoculars ($324.99). This Editor has used these binoculars on hunts and hikes, and they offer excellent performance for the price. Steiner binoculars, with their wide porro-prism design, may seem old-fashioned, but don’t let that put you off. At SHOT Show an executive of a competing optics maker told us: “The porro-prism offers great field of view and depth of field at 7-8X power. You can produce a better optic at a lower price with this porro-prism design. However, we don’t use the porro-prism in our binoculars because we think consumers prefer the narrow styling of roof prism [straight lens body] designs.”
