Vortex - 10x50 Viper HD Binoculars (2018 Edition)

A Guide to Marine Binoculars

This updated 2018 version of the Vortex Viper HD 10x50 Binoculars get upgraded with a significantly wider field of view and angle of view in a slightly smaller form factor from the previous iteration to make views more spacious and viewing through them easier and more comfortable.

Optically, these binoculars benefit from proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multicoated optics that maximize light transmission through the light path and improve contrast and color rendition across the entire visual spectrum. The compact roof prisms are dielectric coated. Phase-corrected coatings limit internal interference, light loss, and diffraction while maximizing light transmission through the prism system. These features work together to produce bright, sharp, and clear high-contrast views with accurate color fidelity and crisp resolution. The large 50mm objective lenses draw in generous amounts of light to maintain bright and crisp images even when conditions are less than ideal, such as in the pre-dawn and late dusk hours or when looking into dense brush or using under heavy cloud cover.

Complementing the optical performance are construction details that allow the Viper HD to withstand the rigors of the trail. The optical tubes are O-ring sealed and argon filled to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging if the weather turns or they take an accidental spill in a stream or puddle. Protecting the optical components is a polycarbonate chassis that is lightweight and durable as well as resistant to the expansion and contraction that metal suffers from and which can lead to fuzzy views over time. Vortex includes a GlassPak binoculars harness case that protects the optic when not in use while keeping the binoculars close to your body, preventing swinging and swaying as you move or climb over rough and rocky terrain. Objective lens caps and a one-piece ocular rainguard protect the exterior lens surfaces. To keep the caps and rainguard safe during use, they are tethered to the body and strap, respectively.

Joseph Albanese

5 years ago

Christopher Witt

11 months ago

Todd Vorenkamp

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Christopher Witt

4 years ago

User Manual

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Optical Performance

High 10x magnification brings distant subjects in for close observations

Large 50mm objective lenses provide generous light-gathering capability for improved vision in challenging conditions such as at dawn and dusk

Compact roof prism light path enhances performance while helping to keep the weight and bulk down

Phase-correcting prism coatings eliminate internal interference to improve color and contrast

Dielectric prism coatings boost internal prism reflectivity to greater than 99% to maximize light transmission through the prism with minimal loss and diffraction

High-density (HD), extra-low dispersion (ED) glass lens elements reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations for increased contrast and improved color rendition and sharpness without distortion across the entire field of view

Proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics increase light transmission for accurate color fidelity and improved contrast and clarity

ArmorTek exterior lens coatings resist scratches and abrasions while allowing oil, dirt, and sap to be cleaned off without leaving smudges or residue

Wide 66° apparent angle of view helps to reduce the appearance of the distracting hand shake that is common when holding high-power optics such as this

346-foot field of view at 1000 yards

Use and Handling

Closed-bridge configuration provides a solid platform for the internal focusing mechanism

Large slip-resistant center focus knob is easy to manipulate in cold and wet weather or while wearing gloves

Locking right eye dioptric correction lets you compensate for individual eye prescription for tack-sharp views

56-75mm interpupillary distance range allows easy viewing by a wide variety of users

Twist-up click-stop rubber eyecups for comfortable use with or without eyewear

Tripod mountable with an optional adapter for hands-free use to reduce vibration and arm fatigue

16mm eye relief reduces eyestrain to make for more comfortable viewing, especially over extended periods

Wide 5mm exit pupil will completely cover pupils as they open and fully dilate in low light to ensure the whole scene remains in view without vignetting

Construction Details

Lightweight and impact-resistant polycarbonate chassis

Chassis material is temperature resistant, limiting the expansion and contraction that can occur with metal materials and which can cause the optical components to move out of alignment over time

Rubber armoring provides protection from bumps and impacts while offering a positive slip-resistant grip in cold and wet weather

O-ring sealed and argon filled to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme changes in temperature or environmental conditions

Tethered objective lens caps and one-piece ocular rainguard protect the lens surface without the fear of losing them when not in use

GlassPak binocular harness holds the optic close to your body to keep it safe and secure without swinging or hanging when moving or climbing over rough terrain