Best monocular for hiking

 

Hiking monoculars – Buying guide & Comparison

 

Whether you’re a bird watching enthusiast or an accomplished hiker, having the best nature monocular can enhance your outdoor adventures and offer you high-resolution close-ups of your favorite animals and landscapes. But with so many models both large and small on the market, choosing one that’s appropriate for your style and preferences can be tough. We’ve done our research on some of the most popular monoculars out there to ensure you get to buy the right one. We recommend the Wingspan Optics Scout 6X32 as a prime choice. This optical device is small, sturdy, lightweight, waterproof and can offer magnification of 6x so you never miss a rare bird sighting or a distant weather event, all that while costing a fraction of the price of professional models. If you find that this product is sold out, then you should also consider getting the Wingspan Optics ProSpotter 10X42.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

If you don’t know much about monoculars yet wish to buy one, there are some things you might want to learn first about these simple yet highly effective optical instruments. Before reading our hiking monocular reviews, here are some things that will help you make a better choice regarding your first monocular.

Magnification, lens diameter, and size

Most compact monoculars have magnifications between 6x and 10x. If you ever wondered what an 8X25 meant, the first number is the magnifying power while the second is the lens diameter. While magnification is important to make distant objects appear bigger in your eyepiece, the lens diameter is also important. The larger it is, the more light it will gather and the higher resolution the resulting image will have.

With a larger lens you’ll also get a larger field of view, so you can also admire far away scenery or groups of animals.

However, the larger the lens, the bigger and heavier the monocular will be. For most hiking and birdwatching scenarios, a compact monocular should do. It will be easy to transport and use at any time, and you can even carry it in your pocket or around your neck. With a heavier instrument, you sacrifice portability for high-quality, and for larger models, you’ll almost certainly need a sturdy tripod as well.

 

Get the waterproof versions

If you want the best monocular for hiking to hold well even under extreme weather, then you need one of the waterproof models. These have protective rubber coatings, O-ring seals and some are even treated with gas to ensure a watertight seal and prevent water, dust and other forms of debris from entering the device and affecting its performance.

But just because a manufacturer boasts water- and fog-proofing capabilities, it doesn’t mean that you can just leave your favorite monocular under heavy rainfall or submerge it underwater. Use common sense and protective cases when required, many products actually include the latter in the package.

 

Affordable choices abound

One of the best things about monoculars is that you don’t have to break the bank to get one. As opposed to telescopes, DSLR cameras or other optical devices, you can find affordable monoculars for sale. You don’t have to compromise quality for a lower price since many models sell for the price of a few beers, and yet they offer great quality and handling.

You can still go for one of the more expensive models out there, especially if you plan on coupling it with a digital camera for scoping photography, but the good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a lot of fun on your adventures and still get the best hiking monocular you can afford.

 

 

5 Best Hiking Monoculars (Reviews) in 2024

 

If you’re passionate about outdoor adventures and long treks yet haven’t got the slightest clue which monoculars are best suited for these types of activities, then you should be glad to learn that we’ve studied all kinds of models on the market so that you don’t have to. Read our birdwatching monocular reviews and check out their features so you can pick the right one for your needs and budget.

 

 

1. Wingspan Optics Scout 6X32 Compact Wide View Monocular

 

This small and compact monocular is ideal for hikers or bird watchers who want a reliable optical device on hand for every type of situation. Thanks to the easy-go clip, you can immediately grab this device and ensure you don’t miss a wildlife action or a rare bird sighting.

This monocular is durable and sturdy, capable of withstanding the elements for a long time and great for enhancing your outdoor adventures. The Optics Scout 6X32 is also waterproof so you don’t have to worry about moisture from rain or fog from seeping through the lens and damaging the interior.

With this all-weather monocular, you get a wide field of view and a magnification of 6x to enjoy close-ups of your favorite wildlife species and scenery from afar.

Thanks to its lightweight and small design, you can take this monocular with you anywhere. This product also comes with protective covers, a cleaning cloth and a neck strap for easy carrying.

 

Pros

This device is, above everything, compact. Therefore, you won’t find it challenging to carry it with you when you go hunting or bird watching.

The model has a tank-like exterior that is waterproof so that you can utilize it even when the weather is bad.

The product supplies its buyers with a wide view. Moreover, the user is provided with exact depictions of the sights that he/she might be analyzing.

As expected, this model is covered by a warranty. If you are not happy with it, you can return it in the first 30 days.

 

Cons

Some users have stated that this model is rather expensive for a monocular. Nonetheless, there are many buyers that are happy with their investment.

A small number of previous buyers pointed out that the way in which the carrying strap is attached to the model might not be very practical.

 

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2. Wingspan Optics ProSpotter 10X42 Compact Monocular Scope

 

Despite its small size, the ProSpotter is an impressive monocular able to offer quality close-ups to hikers and wildlife enthusiasts around the world.

With a small and sturdy frame, this monocular is built to last. It is waterproof, drop-proof, and debris-proof so that you don’t have to worry about handling it, as any rainfall or accidental slip won’t affect its performance.

Capable of zooming in at 10x magnification, this instrument can bring you a lot closer to the world and the animal species you love, and handling it is a breeze even when in a hurry.

With the adjustable eyecups, you can get comfortable viewing conditions regardless if you’re wearing eyeglasses or not. The focus wheel is easy to turn with just one hand so that you can bring into focus any object in record times. The package includes a nylon protective case, a neck strap, protective lens covers, and a cleaning cloth.

 

Pros

This model comes provided with adjustable eyecups, which makes the device suitable to be used by those that wear glasses.

The product is easy to use, and it can capture clear images of the wildlife in precise detail. Because of this, the model is highly appreciated by nature lovers that like to admire the wildlife in all its aspects.

This monocular is resistant to dust, debris, and water spills. Consequently, the model can be utilized in various meteorological conditions.

This device can be focused manually so that one can have a clear view of objects at all times.

 

Cons

The model has received good reviews from users. However, some of them pointed out that the product that they had received was heavier and bulkier than they had expected it to be.

Additionally, the device is often considered kind of expensive, given the fact that the market is filled with similar models that are more budget-friendly.

 

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3. Vortex SOLO 8X25 Binoculars Black

 

If you’re looking for a resistant monocular for your rough outdoor trips, then the Vortex Optics Solo is just what you need.

Built to resist the elements, this instrument is equipped with O-rings which seal the body completely, ensuring protection against water and dust so that you won’t have to fear using it even under extreme weather events.

The Optics Solo offers 8x power, capable of delivering a 378-foot field of view at a maximum of 1000 yards. You will be able to admire your favorite animals and natural scenes with ease without missing a single sighting with the 25mm objective lens which will offer you crystal clear views.

Viewing can be done comfortable thanks to the 10mm eye relief. You can easily wear this monocular with the neck lanyard and ensure you always have it on hand, or you can protect it from damage with the soft carry case that’s included in the package.

 

Pros

The product was specially built so that it can resist the impact of the elements. Furthermore, the unit includes practical O-rings that completely seal the body of the product.

The device has a 25 mm objective lens and a 378-foot field of view at 1000 yards that can supply the buyer with clear viewings at all times.

Because of the incorporated eye-relief, this particular unit is also compatible with those users that wear glasses.

The model can magnify an image up to eight times, which is more than enough for a hunter and the device comes supplied with a full rubber armor that is easy to hold.

 

Cons

A former buyer noted that the carrying case supplied by the manufacturer is not very durable.

The product does not have a function for long-distance focusing, and it does not include an eyepiece cover. However, many are happy with its quality and results.

 

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4. Gskyer Telescope, Instruments Infinity 60mm AZ Refractor

 

The Alpen Optics monocular is of a small yet sturdy design that’s meant to withstand long-term usage and unfavorable weather.

Its outer case is rubber-coated to ensure a sealed medium and protection against damage while also offering a comfortable and firm grip.

The outer housing is waterproof and fogproof so you won’t get condensed droplets on the inside of the lenses.

You get to enjoy superior imagery with the BaK-4 multi-coated glass elements and 8x magnification which will provide bright crystal clear optics with sharp edges and high resolution so that you can study nature and rare animals in detail.

Measuring only 4.75 inches and weighing 5 ounces, this monocular is extremely small and light, so you can rest assured that you can carry it in your pocket at any time and make sure you’re prepared for that rare bird sighting.

 

Pros

This compact monocular stands out because of its 25mm objective lens and its ability to magnify an image up to 8 times. Therefore, you’ll be able to see bright, crystal clear images with it.

The model features a rubber coating, and it has an ergonomic grip that is safe to use as the unit won’t slip from your hands.

The product has a long eye relief, and it also features a nylon carrying case and a wrist strap for effortless transportation.

The device is 4.75 inches long, and it has a total weight of 5 ounces. As a result, the model is effortless to transport.

 

Cons

Because of the poor quality control, there is a high chance that you will end up with a unit that does not perform well. If this happens, go ahead and contact the seller.

Additionally, the model could be considered rather expensive. Still, this monocular has many buyers that are happy with their investment.

 

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5. Celestron 71210 Nature 10 x 25 Monocular

 

The Celestron 71210-CGL is a compact and affordable monocular that’s a good addition to any hiker’s backpack.

In fact, it’s so small that you can even carry it in your pocket. The 25mm lens is multi-coated to improve light transmission and contrast while eliminating defects such as flare and chromatic aberrations.

At 1000 yards, you get a field of view of 331 feet, an impressive feature given the small size of this product.

The 14mm eye relief is made to provide maximum comfort even after prolonged use. Close focus with this monocular is at 18 feet, and the apparent field of view is 5.8 degrees.

The rubber cover will offer protection against mechanical damage as well as give you a soft yet firm grip so that you can effortlessly handhold this instrument for extended periods of time. The Celestron 71210-CGL handles damp environments well as it is both waterproof and fogproof.

 

Pros

This item is affordable, and it includes many features that you will certainly appreciate. For instance, the unit has a 331 field of view at 1000 yards.

The product is fitting to be used by hunters that wear glasses, as the product includes a 14 mm eye relief.

The device is covered in rubber. Because of this, the model will not slip from your hands easily.

This monocular is both fogproof and waterproof. Consequently, you can use it in various weather conditions without fearing that it will be affected by the rain.

 

Cons

Although the model has great ratings, a user claimed that the focus ring included in the design of the product is rather stiff and, thus, difficult to use.

The product is often regarded as a great investment for those that have small hands. Because of this, if you have wider palms, it might be best to look for a different model.

 

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