How Do You Choose the Perfect Night Vision Goggles Size for Big Game Hunting?

Before discussing the specifics of size and magnification, it's essential to understand the key components of binoculars.

Magnification is often the first thing people look at when buying goggles. If you see something like "10x" or "12x" on the label, it refers to the magnification power. This number tells you how many times larger the image will appear compared to what you’d see with the naked eye. For example, a 10x magnification will make the image appear ten times closer.

While higher magnification seems like a no-brainer, it’s important to remember that with increased magnification comes increased weight and often a decrease in image stability. You’ll also need a tripod for binoculars above 12x, as hand tremors become more apparent at higher magnifications.

The second number in a binocular’s description refers to the objective lens size, such as the "42" in a 10x42 pair of binoculars. This lens, measured in millimeters, affects how much light enters the optic. Larger lenses (like 50mm) gather more light, making them ideal for low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk. However, larger lenses also mean heavier binoculars.

Not all binocular glass is created equal. High-end binoculars such as the NatureView NV6000 night vision binoculars typically offer superior glass quality, producing sharper images and better performance in low-light conditions. Brands like Swarovski, Leica, and Vortex have built their reputation on delivering optics with crystal-clear images.

So, investing in better glass is a smart choice if you want the best possible view of your target. However, plenty of affordable options offer solid performance for the budget-conscious hunter.

Not all binocular glass is created equal. High-end binoculars typically offer superior glass quality, producing sharper images and better performance in low-light conditions. Brands like Swarovski, Leica, and Vortex have built their reputation on delivering optics with crystal-clear images.

So, investing in better glass is a smart choice if you want the best possible view of your target. However, plenty of affordable options offer solid performance for the budget-conscious hunter.

Selecting the right size binoculars depends heavily on the type of terrain, game, and hunting style. Here’s how you can match your binoculars to different hunting environments.

Increasing the magnification in hunting in more open terrains such as the prairies or mountainous terrains is even more necessary. In these areas if you haven't got the best wildlife trail camera to use instead, you, more often than not, have to scan large distances, sometimes miles away.

Anywhere from 10x to 15x is perfect for this type of hunting. The magnification ranges that come with a 10x42 are ideal, considering that the larger lens size can be a bit cumbersome while hiking. For those willing to take the extra weight, 12x50 or 15 x 56 binoculars mounted on a tripod are favourites for distance viewing.

However, as is often the case with higher magnifications, the size and weight of the Micro Four Thirds lenses are a trade-off. Binoculars with larger objective lenses and higher magnification power are a bit bulky and difficult to carry while hunting, especially if they are used for long treks. Therefore, one should always ask whether the additional weight is worthwhile for better distance viewing.

Hunting in thick brush or dense forests presents an entirely different challenge. Visibility is limited, and you’ll likely be glassing much shorter distances. Binoculars with 8x or 10x magnification work best in these environments, providing a wider field of view, essential for spotting animals in tight spaces.

Higher magnification binoculars aren’t ideal in these settings because they limit your field of view and make it harder to spot animals at close range. Moreover, carrying bulky binoculars in the woods can quickly become a burden.

Different hunting strategies require different tools. If you're employing a spot-and-stalk method, locating animals from a distance, and then making your move, higher magnification binoculars (10x42 or 12x50) are your best bet. These allow you to spot animals from afar and plan your approach more effectively.

On the other hand, hunters who rely on calling, especially in close quarters like dense woods, should opt for smaller, more lightweight binoculars. An 8x42 or 10x42 binocular provides a wider field of view and is much easier to handle when you're quickly trying to spot a game that could be just a few hundred yards away.

If there’s one size of binocular that stands out as the most versatile, it’s the 10x42. This size offers the best of both worlds: a powerful enough magnification for scanning open landscapes while remaining lightweight and compact enough for use in more confined environments like forests or hillsides.

A 10x42 is also highly portable, making it easier to carry around your neck or in a harness without feeling weighed down. This size becomes their go-to for many hunters because it works in almost every hunting scenario.

When shopping for binoculars, it’s tempting to cut costs. After all, hunting gear can get expensive fast. However, skimping on binoculars can significantly impact your hunting success. The quality of the glass in your binoculars directly affects image clarity, brightness, and performance in low-light conditions.

Another factor often overlooked is eye relief. Higher-end binoculars offer better eye relief, allowing you to look through them for extended periods without straining your eyes. Cheaper binoculars usually cause discomfort and headaches after long sessions of glassing.

While you don't have to break the bank, investing in the best binoculars you can afford is wise. Brands like Vortex, Nikon, and Leupold offer excellent mid-range options that provide good glass without the hefty price tag of top-tier models like Swarovski and Leica.