Hunting

Best Marine Binoculars & Reviews: The Ultimate Buying Guide for 2019

Updated on October 27, 2019 by Owen Davids

When I first heard about marine binoculars, I wasn’t too sure how differerent they would be a normal pair of binoculars. As I started doing my research, I realized that the ocean presents some very unique challenges that the average pair of binos are not built for.

The one obvious difference is the bigger risk of water damaging your binocs, but the morning fog, glaring sun in the late afternoon and the spray of saltwater makes marine binoculars a very specialized item.

I haven’t even mentioned the incredible difficulty in judging distance when floating on the ocean, and the big temperature swings. These highly specialized binos could very well be alot tougher than their hunting counterparts.

When searching for a good pair of marine binoculars, there are a number of factors that you must keep in mind.

Before we get into these 8 characteristics of a good pair of marine binocs, let’s talk about some of the top marine binoculars brands.

Steiner Marine Binoculars

Bushnell Marine Binoculars

Nikon Marine Binoculars

For nearly 70 years Steiner-Optik has been manufacturing some of the best optics on the planet. It was in 1979, that Karl Steiner created the first binocular with an integrated compass. It was called the Commander. It has been the most successful professional marine binocular ever since.

If you are looking for premium 7×50 marine binoculars, Steiner is the brand you want to go with.

From the value for money Steiner 7×50 Marine, to the recreational Navigator and the premium Commander series, Steiner has advanced optics to offer all anglers, boaters and sailors.

8 Things to consider before your purchase

Fog-proof and Waterproof

Obviously, marine exploration is done in water. It is only but natural that your binoculars must be waterproof . Be careful, however, as there are different kinds available in the market. Get a pair that contains an o-ring seal and charged with dry nitrogen gas.

Binoculars that have these will be free from fogging. This will also ensure that water and moisture does not get inside and damage your binoculars. As a result, your gear will be protected from corrosion as well.

Aside from these, consider also buying a pair that can stay underwater for a long period of time. This is especially if you are worried about them falling off into the water.

Best Magnification

Binoculars are meant for you to be able to see clearly those things that are in a distance. Magnification is a crucial feature in a binocular as it sets the quality of your view. The larger the magnification, the better your view will be. Choose then those binoculars with a high quality magnification to provide the best sight.

However, you should also keep in mind that stability affects magnification. A deck of a boat is never steady. It is then a bad idea to use high powered binoculars as it is impossible to stabilize the image. Get a set that has 7x magnification. This is common among majority of marine binoculars. This gives you a good view of your images without having stabilization problems.

Stabilizing Binoculars

Are not satisfied with the power of the 7x magnification? You can also buy binoculars that have image stabilization built into them. There are many options available in the market.

Objective Lens Size

This means the size of the lens that are at the tip of your binoculars. The lens size determines the amount of light that can get into your binoculars. Large objective lenses allow more light to get in which will produce a brighter image. Take into consideration what time of the day you will use your binoculars. Factor in also the light in the space where you will use them.

Larger lenses, however, would mean bigger and heavier binoculars. Although this may not be a problem to some as they are used on a boat, there are still plenty of sizes you can choose from. Most marine binoculars have objective lenses ranging from 30mm to 50mm.

Field of View

Field of View is the horizontal width of what you can see when looking through your binoculars. This is not a critical factor in marine binoculars. Yet, it is still something that should be taken into consideration.

A wide field of view will allow you to easily see a variety of subjects in your view. But, the extent of your field of view will also affect your magnification. A wider field of view will mean a lower magnification. Hence, you should get binoculars with the right field of view and magnification. Opt for 7×50 marine binoculars. They provide a perfect balance between magnification, lens size, and field of view.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of your marine binoculars really depends on you. Since you are on a boat, bringing small or big ones would not be a problem as you can just put them aside on deck.

Compass

There are many marine binoculars available in the market that features an integrated compass. These compasses also come in different kinds. There are those digital ones or those that light up during the night. Get one that will fit your needs.

Floating Straps

There are unexpected incidents that could possibly happen during your marine exploration. Things can accidentally plummet and dive into the water. It is best that you attach a floating strap to your binoculars if you are worried of them falling into the water. This will ensure that they stay on top of the water long enough for you to fish them out.

Best Hunting Rangefinder For the Money 2019 – Top 3 Picks Revealed

Updated on October 27, 2019 by Owen Davids

If you consider yourself a devoted hunter, you’ll know that investing in a good quality rangefinder is a must. Whether you’re hunting with a rifle or bow, at the simple press of a button you’ll be able to experience a wide range of benefits and be one step ahead of your prey and competitors.

In the past a rangefinder was considered a luxury for hunters and used as a substitute to hunting binoculars, but these days they are so developed and affordable that we decided to compile a list of the three best hunting rangefinders for the money to help you select one that will work for you!

Vortex Optics Ranger 1000

The Ranger 1000 rangefinder from Vortex can be described as compact and lightweight. At only 3.9 x 3 inches and weighing as little as 0.5 pounds, this rangefinder is perfect for hunters who are constantly on the move and need a device that will eliminate the guesswork for them while still being a comfortable fit.

On top of this, the Ranger 1000 is also waterproof and built with a rugged design. This is great since you’ll be able to enjoy hunting in tough situations and harsh weather conditions without having to worry about your rangefinder letting you down during these times. Overall, this rangefinder is a good buy for the money with these and more features that will make your hunting experience a blast!

In a hurry?
==>> Click for pricing and any available discounts on the Ranger 1000

Sig Sauer Kilo 2000 Yard Graphite

Sig Sauer created the Kilo 2000 Graphite Rangefinder with one concept in mind: long-range success. Any great hunter knows that timing is everything when out in the field and when the Kilo 2000 was designed, this was definitely thought about.

This rangefinder has revolutionary light wave DSP technology which makes it range faster it long distances while still providing excellent accuracy and when put in scan mode, it refreshes 4x faster per second.

A built in inclinometer allows you to read incline and decline angles and helps to modify the effective ballistic shooting range to your chosen target. This feature increases your chances of having a perfect shot every time – no matter the situation. Unique benefits are what makes one rangefinder stand out between the rest and the features on the Kilo 2000 are definitely not found on any rangefinder out there.

In a hurry?
==>> Click for pricing and any available discounts on the Kilo 2000

TecTecTec ProWild

The name says it al – hunt like a pro with the ProWild hunting rangefinder from TecTectec. Gain some advantage on your prey by getting closer to them without taking a single step with this rangefinder in hand. This device measures not only distance but speed as well to make sure that every shot you take is a kill shot.

If you’re an adventurous hunter, the ProWild will become your best friend with its rainproof durable body that allows you to use it at every single hunting outing. Never again miss out on that perfect target with this rangefinder by your side.

In a hurry?
==>> Click for pricing and any available discounts on the TecTectec ProWild

Completing the search for the best hunting rangefinder for the money

Finding the best hunting rangefinder for the money is not an easy task or something that should be done in a hurry, but with the rangefinders listed above your journey has just been made more convenient! You would have noticed that all the rangefinders mentioned above eliminate guesswork, help you get closer and make sure about targets and best of all are convenient to carry around.

These great features are provided while still buying something that is affordable. We recommended the three products above, but if we left out your favourite rangefinder, let us know below!

Hunting Rangefinder Deals and Discounts

Looking for the best prices on top rated hunting rangefinders? ==>> Check this Amazon page for rangefinders for sale

Big hame hunting with air rifles might be coming to NY soon

Updated on October 27, 2019 by Owen Davids

I came across this very interesting article on Field and Stream earlier today. While this has not been approved yet, I find it fascinating to see the debate around the issue.

There are people who are opposing this game law, on the grounds that the air rifles might not have enough power to kill big game in a humane way. I, for one, believe that it might be very dangerous hunting big game with air rifles, as you do not want to run into an injured big game animal.

As a side note, remember to check out my top picks for hunting binoculars of 2019.

In late December, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation announced that it is considering amending the state’s game laws to allow big-game hunting with air-powered rifles beginning with the 2016 season.
“The popularity of air-powered firearms is growing, largely because of technological advancements,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos told The Poughkeepsie Journal. “These modern firearms produce the force necessary to efficiently harvest big-game animals. In addition, because big-bore air rifles are not as loud as conventional rifles or shotguns, allowing their use may make hunting more acceptable in locations with higher human densities, including areas where deer are overabundant.”
Source: http://www.fieldandstream.com/blogs/field-notes/new-york-considers-big-game-hunting-with-air-rifles-0

Trailcam Hanging Tips

Updated on June 2, 2016 by Owen Davids

Finding the perfect spot for your camera is important in order for you to have a successful scouting. Mounting your camera is as vital as this as well. Once you find a good place, the next challenge is how to mount the trail camera into a tree.

This is really not that difficult, but there are some guidelines you can apply to make you mounting easier and more secure. Aside from this, you also have to remember to be very quick in installing the camera so that your scent will not stay in the area which the animals may smell. It may also be good if you spray yourself with a scent eliminator.

Here are some tips on how to best mount your trail camera:

Face the camera to the North or South

Avoid facing your camera to the east or west as this will put them straight in the direction of the setting or the rising sun. This is obviously not a good idea as there will be a time of the day where you will get overexposed or underexposed photos because of the light. Facing the camera North is best because you will not have a problem with the backlighting. It is best that you bring a compass with you to determine the right direction.

Make sure there is a clear view

While many of you may want to hide the camera under a bush or something else, make sure that the lens is clear of any obstruction. It is best that you initially test the location so you are sure that the view is not blocked by anything. With this, you save yourself from having useless photos in the end.

Hang about 3 feet of the ground

As much as possible, hang your camera to about three feet above the ground. This height will give you best results. Hanging higher and angling the camera downward may also a bit more difficult rather than hanging it at three feet. Also, you have to do it only if it is possible as this may cause a problem in terms of security.

Angle towards the trail

This may sound simple which is why it is often overlooked by many. Hanging at a 45 degree angle to the trail will increase the trigger time of your device and give you a better quality of the entire animal.

This might sound like a lot to take in, but the more scouting experience you get with the use of your trail camera, the easier these steps will become. It will soon be second nature, and you won’t even be consciously thinking of these things anymore.

If you don’t have a game camera yet, go check out the best value for money trail camera.

Finding the Sweet Spot!

Updated on September 29, 2016 by Owen Davids

One very important thing that should be taken into consideration when scouting is the area where you will place the game camera. This is very crucial as a good spot is one of the keys for you successfully capture the wildlife hanging around in the area. Even the best trail camera in the world will not do you any good if you place it in a spot where animals tend to stay away from.

The difference between finding no pictures, and discovering a good spot is a skill that you will be able to master as you gain more experience in scouting. Trial and error will also be useful. For example, when you see some tracks in the area of your camera but do not see any photos, you may need to adjust the placement of the camera. When you hang your camera, you may also want to try to mask your scent using an eliminator so that it will not be smelled by the animals.

One important tip, make sure to take note of where you left your trail cam, you don’t want to lose it!

Even with the advancements in the technology of modern trail cameras, there is still no specific formula discovered that will tell you exactly where you should hang your camera. There are a few pointers, however, that you could apply when placing your camera. Check them out below:

If you live in an area where it snows, get out immediately after the first snowfall. You will be able to see tracks of the animals and determine the directions they are heading. Follow the trails and you will find out the areas where they congregate. You can place your camera in these areas.

Try to walk 15 minutes or more from any high human traffic areas like public roads or parks. A deer is more comfortable around less travelled areas.

Find the food source. You can use natural ones or plant camouflaged feeders or food plots. You can use this to check out what animals are in the area.

If you live in a hot area, follow the water source. Animals need water too and you can be sure that they thrive on areas with water to quench their thirst on a hot day.

You can also mix and combine the areas. You can hang your game camera in an area where a trail converges to a food or water source.

Place the camera above a deer’s eye level. They will most likely not recognize a trail camera, but they may run away if flashes hit their eyes. When you place it above, it is like imitating a lightning which the animals are used to so they will not be scared by it.

Aside from all of these tips, always remember to take notes every after scouting. With this, you are able to do some improvements the next time you head out and set up your camera.