At Midwest Photo, we proudly offer three Vortex binocular models, two Diamondback and one Crossfire! Each tailored to specific needs. These Binoculars bring distant landscapes, feathered friends, and hidden wonders into sharp focus. 

Whether you’re an avid bird watcher, a wildlife photographer, or hunter, finding a reliable pair of binoculars can transform your experience. Let’s explore the specs, best use scenarios, and costs of these optical companions!

How do the Vortex models compare?

Vortex Binocular Models	Vortex 8X42 DIAMONDBACK HD	Vortex 10X42 DIAMONDBACK HD	Vortex 8X42 CROSSFIRE HD
Overview	Optical Quality Feature crystal-clear HD glass, providing outstanding resolution, reduced chromatic aberration, stunning color fidelity, and edge-to-edge sharpness. Brightness delivers great brightness, making them suitable for various outdoor activities. Comfort Known for their rugged yet comfortable construction. Easy to handle and use for extended periods. Close Focus Close focus distance of 5 feet, they’re versatile for observing nearby objects. Waterproof and Fogproof Argon-filled for reliable performance in all weather conditions. Field of View The wide 60° apparent angle view allows you to capture more of the scene.	Optical Quality Upgraded lens coatings and dielectric-coated prisms enhance brightness, sharpness, and color fidelity compared to previous models. Durability Lightweight, easy to hold steady, and features a grippy exterior.  Comfort The included GlassPakTM binocular harness provides comfort and quick deployment. Close Focus Close focus distance of 5 feet, allowing you to observe nearby objects with clarity. Waterproof and Fogproof Argon-filled for reliable performance in all weather conditions Field of View The wide 330-foot field of view at 1000 yards ensures you won’t miss any action.	Optical Quality The HD glass brings outstanding resolution, reduced chromatic aberration, stunning color fidelity, and edge-to-edge sharpness to an already impressive binocular range. Comfort and Protection The included GlassPakTM binocular harness provides quick optic deployment in the field and superior comfort and protection Close Focus With a close focus distance of 6 feet, these binoculars are ideal for observing nearby birds, animals, or insects3. Field of View The linear field of view is 393 feet at 1000 yards, ensuring you won’t miss any action
Specs	Magnification 8x   Objective Lens Diameter 42 mm   Linear Field of View  393 feet/1000 yards   Angular Field of View 7.5 degrees   Eye Relief 17 mm   Height  5.7 inches   Width  5.1 inches   Weight 21.8 oz   Exit Pupil  5.25 mm   Interpupillary Distance 55-73 mm   Close Focus 5 feet	Magnification 10x  Objective Lens Diameter 42 mm  Linear Field of View 330 feet/1000 yards  Angular Field of View 6.3 degrees  Eye Relief 15 mm  Height 5.7 inches  Width 5.1 inches  Weight 21.3 oz  Exit Pupil 4.2 mm  Interpupillary Distance 55-73 mm  Close Focus 5 feet	Magnification 8x   Objective Lens Diameter  42 mm   Linear Field of View  393 feet/1000 yards  Angular Field of View  7.5 degrees   Eye Relief 17 mm   Height 6.25 inches   Width 5.2 inches   Weight  23.8 oz  Exit Pupil 5.25 mm   Interpupillary Distance 58-75 mm  Close Focus 6 feet
Best use	Great instrument for avid bird watching, hunters, stargazers and nature sightseers	Very universal, great for hunting and sight seeing.  The size, magnification, and weight make it perfect for big game hunting.	Everyday sightseeing, birdwatching, and hunting.
Cost	$239.99	$249.99	$139.99

What do the Vortex Binoculars come with?

Now let’s go over each model… 

Starting with the Vortex 8X42 Diamondback HD Binoculars. This model has a Linear Field of View 393 feet/1000 yards and Angular Field of View 7.5 degrees. It also offers Eye Relief of 17 mm (about 0.67 in) and Exit Pupil 5.255.25 mm (about 0.21 in). Similar specs as the 8×42 Crossfire, however this model is the same size as the Diamondback 10×42, making it a little more compact if preferred.  

Benefits

The 8X42 Diamondback HD Binoculars have amazing brightness and are great to use in low light situations. The build and sport ergonomic thumb grooves make it very comfortable to hold and handle.  

Downfalls

Although the clarity is good for many beginners, some customers who use these for more professional settings don’t find the clarity as impressive as other higher end models. However, for a first pair it will exceed your expectations.

If you are a frequent traveler, nature lover, or avid bird watcher then this model would suit you well. The compact size makes it easy to travel but doesn’t hinder the quality of the other specs it offers.  

Now on to the Vortex 10X42 Diamondback HD Binoculars. Looking at the specs, this model differentiates from the others by having the highest magnification of 10x, out of the three.  It’s the same size as the 8×42 Diamondback, but the weight is just 5 oz less. (Height 5.7 inches, Width 5.1 inches, Weight 21.3 oz).  What makes the 10X42 Diamondback HD Binoculars great is how compact they are, and the clarity.  

Benefits

One of the benefits of the Diamondback HD binoculars is that the optical design contains better lenses, coatings, and prisms. This allows the Diamondback HD to provide a brighter and sharper image than the Crossfire.  

What makes the 10X42 Diamondback HD Binoculars stand out is the magnification as mentioned before. When comparing the 8×42 and 10×42 Diamondbacks you can notice a huge difference in what the 10x magnification offers versus the 8x magnification from the 8×42. If this is an important aspect to have the 10x 42 Diamondback is worth the investment for $10 more.

Downfalls

The only downfall is that the 10×42 Diamondback is on the higher price end of the three but if you are willing to invest in a higher end model and find it’s specs to be all you are looking for, it’s worth it!

 The 10X42 Diamondback HD Binoculars are a great universal use piece of equipment to have for hunting and sightseeing.  If you are looking for good quality binoculars comparable to high-ranking binoculars without the high price, then this would be the way to go! 

Lastly, we have the Vortex 8X42 Crossfire HD Binoculars. The Crossfire HD is  a great all-around hybrid option. Serves well for everyday viewing and any occasion including birdwatching and hunting. This model is the largest size of the three (Height 6.25 inches, Width 5.2 inches, Weight  23.8 oz). What makes it stand out is having the longest linear field of  393 feet/1000 yards and Angular Field of View of 7.5 degrees. It also has the highest Eye Relief  of17 mm and Exit Pupil of 5.25 mm (about 0.21 in) and Inter-pupillary Distance 58-75 mm (about 2.95 in).  

Benefits

Many have commented on how great the clarity and optics of this model is. Even though it’s a bigger size model compared to the other two Diamondbacks models it’s impressive lightweight feel might make you think otherwise!

Downfalls

The eyecups don’t lock in as well as the ones found on the Diamondback models, however it doesn’t cause any trouble when actually in use. A small consideration but could be important to comfortability.

 Overall, this is a great model to start with as a first pair to use for everyday sightseeing and hunting. The Crossfire is also the most cost-effective option for those who want to invest in a good pair but don’t need something high end yet.  

Now it’s your turn!

No matter which model you go with, Vortex is a great brand that Midwest Photo is happy to recommend all around for optics and binoculars.

Have more questions or want to test the binoculars out for yourself? Call or stop into the store and our team would be happy to assist you! 

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