The Vortex Viper HD 10x42 Binocular gets upgraded with a wider field of view and longer eye relief from the previous iteration to make views more spacious and viewing through them easier and more comfortable.
Optically, this binocular benefits from proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated 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 larger objective lenses boost its light-gathering capabilities to draw in the available light and maintain bright 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 argon filled and O-ring sealed 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 binocular harness case that protects the optic when not in use while keeping it 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.
Optical Performance:
High 10x magnification brings distant subjects in for close observations
42mm objective lenses boost light-gathering capability versus smaller lenses for improved vision in challenging conditions such as at dawn and dusk
Compact roof prism light path ensures performance without adding excessive weight and bulk
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 65° 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
113.21 m field of view at 1000 m
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
56-75 mm 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
Long 17mm eye relief reduces eye strain to make for more comfortable viewing, especially over extended periods
4.2mm exit pupil will completely cover most pupils as they open and 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
Argon-filled and O-ring sealed 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 them safe and secure without swinging or hanging when moving or climbing over rough terrain
Vortex Viper Specs:
Magnification 10x
Objective Lens Diameter 42 mm
Angle of View 6.5° (actual)
Field of View 113.21 m @ 1000 m
Minimum Focus Distance 2 m
Exit Pupil Diameter 4.2 mm
Eye Relief 17.0 mm
Interpupillary Adjustment 56.0 - 75.0 mm
Dioptric Correction Not Specified by Vortex
Focus Type Center
Tripod Mount Yes (Adapter Optional)
Dimensions 142.2 x 124.5 mm
Weight 705.9 g