With every passing season, more hunters are coming around to the benefits of compact hunting optics. But are these optics right for you? Let’s take a closer look.
If you’re used to large format optics, compact spotters like the Razor® 13-39x56 are surprisingly small. But that reduction in size does not mean a reduction in performance.
What Is a Small Format/Compact Optic?
If you put a large format optic and small format optic together, the differences are very clear. Compact optics will be shorter, with smaller objectives. Other than that, the controls will be the same and you’ll still need to run spotting scopes on a tripod. (Take a deep dive on compact optics with this podcast.) Also, with lower maximum magnifications on compact optics, you will not be able to punch out as far.
So, if it’s smaller with less power, what’s the benefit of carrying a compact optic?
Lighter, Faster, More Mobile.
The most obvious benefit of compact optics is they’re smaller, meaning you can carry less and take up less space in your pack. This is ideal for the weight weary hunter, or the backcountry hunter looking to shave ounces off their pack. Crucially, shaving those extra ounces does not mean you are compromising on performance.
The incredibly efficient optical systems and lens coatings in compact optics can make up for the smaller objective sizes in most scenarios. (Get more on light transmission with this short podcast.)
Deciding between large format and small format optics is a balancing act. Smaller format binoculars like our Razor® UHD 8x32, for example, give hunters who have their hands full an incredibly stable glassing experience even with one hand.
In addition, compact optics are perfect for hunters on the move, and even better for hunters in the trees. Binoculars like our Razor® UHD 8x32 combine a smaller magnification with an incredible optical engine to create some of the most stable glassing you can have in a tree stand or saddle. Even held one handed, you’ll enjoy crisp views and superior brightness.
One final advantage? Compact optics, with their lower mag ranges, give you a wider field of view. That means you can scan large areas quickly, and track moving game easier. (For more on finding the balance between magnification and field of view, check out this blog.
While it doesn’t have the massive objective of larger format optics, the Crossfire® HD 12-36x50 delivers a wide field of view, ideal for covering ground.
Are Larger Format Optics Still Worth It?
Absolutely, but again, you need to match your optics to your application. If you’re in a truck glassing for bucks or bulls from the driver’s seat, a large format optic on a window mount will give you the optical horsepower to spot game from miles away. The weight and size savings of a compact optic aren’t as big of a benefit.
You also don’t have to choose one or the other. For example, a large format spotter paired with a small format spotter gives you the power to find game and habitat at distance, and the flexibility to carry a lighter spotter on your actual hunt/stalk.
Here’s a question: What is your hunting need? If you can satisfy that need with a small format optic, you will end up carrying less and getting more out of your glass. As they say, the one you will carry the most is the one you will use the most.If you would like help matching your optical loadout to your hunting style, call us anytime to speak with an expert, or give our Optics Finder a try. If you want some advice on glassing all types of terrain, try this blog.
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