Eagle Optics Ranger 8x42 (2 Viewers)

[sinaeh]

Hello!

So I am actually not a regular bird watcher, but I have found past posts on the bird forum and figured this would be the place to ask about binoculars!

This summer, I will be doing some field research in primatology and I need a pair of binoculars. I am a student and can only dream of the +$2,000 Swarovski binoculars...
So, I have been trying to find a pair below the $300 price range and came across the Eagle Optics Ranger. How do they compare to other binoculars in that price level and would anyone recommend them for field work?

Thank you!

 

[eitanaltman]

The Ranger is one of the most popular "budget bins" out there for the past 8-10 years, probably second only to the Nikon Monarch. I owned a pair for 5+ years and it travelled with me to many exotic locales. Its advantages are that it it is very bright and has good resolution, it is quite compact and light for a 42mm class bin, and it is backed by an ironclad lifetime unconditional warranty. On the down side, it had a fairly narrow field of view (FOV) relative to the current competition.

In the past few years a lot of new models have appeared in the $300 and under bracket that have provided stiff competition for the Monarch and Ranger. So they are no longer the undisputed class leaders as in the past, although they are both solid and proven models.

I would suggest backing up a step and you telling us about the conditions you will be using them in, and your priorities. You mention primatologist field work... Am I correct then in assuming that this will involve long treks in the rainforest? Some things you may want to consider is how much weight you want to carry, how much magnification you need, how much FOV matters, etc. I would imagine that there will be some lower light conditions, and since you won't be scanning across huge distances magnification may not be that important. You may find that a 32mm model may be a better fit with its lower weight and more compact size. I also imagine you want something rugged with a good warranty. If you will be in the field for long periods of time having the bin fail on you would be unpleasant.

Here's a suggestion, the Meopta Meopro 6.5x32: http://www.eagleoptics.com/binoculars/meopta/meopta-meopro-6-5x32-binocular

Or even cheaper as a demo: http://www.cameralandny.com/optics2/meopta.pl?page=meopta523460

Very light (21oz), a bit more compact, wide FOV, very good optics, rugged with a good warranty, the lower magnification will give you a large exit pupil making them more usable in low light, with a steadier view and good depth of field. Magnification can often be overrated and if most of your work will be at moderate distance under a forest canopy I think 6.5x is plenty.

Even if you get the Ranger, I might think about the 8x32 version as it is compact and lighter and has a wider FOV.

If possible, I would suggest heading into a shop to try some models out to get a sense for what you like. In Texas it shouldn't be a problem finding hunting/sporting stores that carry a few models. Or, at minimum, order two pairs (your too two contenders) from a store like Eagle Optics with an unconditional return policy and return the loser. They are happy to let you do this.

 

[ceasar]

:hi:
Welcome to Bird Forum Ms Sinaeh,

Where will you be doing your research? Some place where wet weather is a factor? And will you be wearing glasses?

You probably want a tough reliable binocular that can handle jungle weather. And if you wear glasses you will need long eye relief.

I have a very early version of the Ranger in 6 x 32 and I can tell you that it is tough and reliable and has long eye relief and has been considerably improved in it's newer version but that is all I can tell you.

You might find an 8 x 42 more useful. I also suggest that you get it in plenty of time to thoroughly put it through it's paces before you leave for parts unknown with it to make sure it has no problems. Eagle Optics has a good 30 day return policy that will make that possible.

Bob

 

[sinaeh]

Thank you eitanaltman and Bob for your answers!

I have been looking at the Monarch to compare, but for some reason the Ranger seems more favorable. The FOV is what concerns me though, since as you said it is more narrow than others.

I was told to buy something around 8x40, so I figured the 8x42 would be almost the same weight? I have no glasses, and I will actually be traveling first to South Africa (subtropical and wintertime/cold), and then Costa Rica (tropical and hot). So, I definitely need a pair that is tough and reliable.

And it's a great idea with ordering two! I think I will try that. This will be my first pair of binoculars, so thanks again for your help!

 

[ceasar]

I live near the Hawk Mountain Bird Sanctuary. It hires interns from around the world each year in a work/study plan to help out during the year. I have noticed that most of them use Nikon Monarchs (Models unknown to me) while they are doing bird counts during the fall migration period.

There are 12 different versions of Monarchs:

http://www.nikonsportoptics.com/en/Nikon-Products/Binoculars/MONARCH/index.page

Eagle Optics will no longer be carrying Nikon products and the ones they have now are on sale. Very few of them are left and they are Excellent and Expensive binoculars so you might be limited to only trying out the Rangers or the other's mentioned by Einanaltman.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/binoculars/nikon

One advantage the Meopta Meo Pro 6.5 x 32 would have is a very generous depth of field view over an 8x binocular. This would be particulary useful in up close jungle conditions while trying to track small birds.

Minox also has "BL BR 8 x 42" (sale priced at Eagle Optics) and "BL 8 x 44 BR Comfort Bridge" binoculars in your price range.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/binoculars/minox

Bob

 

[Chosun Juan]

Sinaeh, welcome to the forum!

If you're looking around the ~$300 mark, probably the best value you'll find at the moment is this $330 demo Zen-Ray ED3 8x43 - 426ft Fov /16.8mm ER, 27oz, 6.5"x5" open bridge: http://www.cameralandny.com/optics2/zenray.pl?page=zenray-zened30843
Being a wide field, dielectric coated prism + ED glass, it's a step up optically over the other contenders. Check that the focusing is free of backlash to your satisfaction, and that both barrels have similar resolution /sweet spot size - if so, you won't do better optically for the money.

Otherwise, you need to make some decisions around magnification, size, weight, and Fov. You should also check that ER adjustment is suitable for you, and that you are happy with ergonomic fit (holding, facial fit). As mentioned already, it's best to try before you buy, and find a seller / manufacturer that will stand behind their service /products. All the recommendations you'll get on the forum are solid. As you mentioned you are a student, I take it that your age leans more toward tender, rather than well done! As such, I'd stick with at least a 5mm exit pupil (objective size divided by magnification), and you'd even benefit from 6mm - especially in the deep dark jungle and /or during quick-snap viewing (due to the easier eye placement) .

If your viewing ranges will be in denser cover /closer, rather than regularly open /distant, you might want to consider 7x. (if you'll be perpetually nose-up-against-shrubbery then you might even consider 6.5x as mentioned). These lower powers will give much better dof (depth of field), along with wider Fov, making for easier viewing close-in. Here are some 7x's to consider:

$409, Zen-Ray ED3 7x43 - 440ft Fov /18mm ER, 27oz, 6.5"x5" open bridge: http://www.zen-ray.com/shop/binoculars/zened3/zened3-8x43-37.html
$390, Celestron Granite ED 7x33 - 477ft Fov /15mm ER, 21.2oz, 5.5"x4.9" open bridge: http://www.eagleoptics.com/binoculars/celestron/celestron-granite-7x33-binocular (Eitanaltman is the one to ask about it's performance, some other opinions on here about this, being less reliable)
$107, Nikon 7x35 Action EX Extreme - 487ft Fov /17mm ER, 28.2oz, 7.2"x4.7" (porro, 16ft close focus) http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/319406-USA/Nikon_7237_7x35_Action_EX_Extreme.html

In the 8's (a good allrounder magnification), there is:
$349, (due to lob in ~2weeks?) Zeiss 8x42 Terra ED - 375ft Fov /18mm ER, 25.4oz, 5.5"x4.7" closed bridge: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/920175-REG/zeiss_524205_8x42_terra_ed_binocular.html
$300, Eagle Optics Ranger 8x42 - 341ft Fov /19.5mm ER, 21.8oz, 5.5"x5.1" closed bridge: http://www.eagleoptics.com/binoculars/eagle-optics/eagle-optics-ranger-8x42-binocular
$297, Nikon 8x42 Monarch 5 (ED) - 331ft Fov /19.5mm ER, 20.8oz, 5.7"x5.1" closed bridge: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/910856-REG/nikon_7576_8x42_monarch_5.html
$250, Vanguard Endeavor ED 8x42 - 367ft Fov 19mm ER, 25.7oz, 6.1"x5.1" open bridge: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...EAVOR_ED_8420_Endeavor_ED_8x42_Binocular.html
$225, ZRS HD (SUMMIT) 8x42 - 393ft Fov /17.3mm ER, 22.7oz, 5.5"x4.8" closed bridge: http://www.zen-ray.com/shop/binoculars/zrshd/zrshd8x42.html
$200 Bresser Everest ED 8x42 - basically an open bridge version of the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD optical spec-wise, read FrankD's thread here: http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=252458

Out of all of those, only the Zen ED3, Celestron Granite ED, and the Nikon Monarch 5 (ED) have confirmed dielectric prism coating (brighter light transmission, although we don't yet know if the Nikon's is as good as the Zen's) + ED glass. This is my preference for an optical prescription, and I'd recommend the Zen ED3's in 8x, or in 7x (with its 6mm exit pupil).

Otherwise, you have to decide how much Fov to sacrifice to get the weight down. In the 7x you could go with the Celestron Granite ED 7x33 (note the 4.7mm exit pupil only though), or in the 8x42's pick between the Zen ZRS HD (SUMMIT), or the Vanguard Endeavor ED (both with excellent reputations), and save yourself $100-odd over the Zeiss Terra ED's. I think that both the EO Ranger and the Nikon Monarch have too small an Fov for what you're likely after. Preferably that's something you'll have to try first-hand, and sort out for yourself though.

Good luck!


Chosun :gh:

 

[sinaeh]

Hi Chosun!

Thank you for your help!
I have now been looking at the Zen Ray ED - and also the HD Summit. How do they compare (other than being ED)? I must admit the ZRS HD Summit fits perfectly with the price range, FOV, and weight! Can anyone tell me more about it?

EDIT: Does ZRS HD have any fog protection?

 

[Tantien]

Zen Ray ED = Atlas Optics Intrepid ED

Hi Chosun!

Thank you for your help!
I have now been looking at the Zen Ray ED - and also the HD Summit. How do they compare (other than being ED)? I must admit the ZRS HD Summit fits perfectly with the price range, FOV, and weight! Can anyone tell me more about it?

EDIT: Does ZRS HD have any fog protection?

:hi: Welcome sinaeh!

I have a pair of re-branded Zen-Ray EDs Here's the Zen Ray and here's my Atlas Optics Intrepid EDs that I reviewed. See the similarities?

I can honestly say that I love the price to performance that I got out of these and they've been more than satisfying to use. The only change I would make would be to get the 8x42s for the wider FOV (yeah they are still a little hefty at 27oz) but they are magnesium bodied, waterproof, fog-proof and argon filled, they are really lots of bino for under $300. The open hinge design is also a plus.

And they have a great warranty too. The only problem over the years I had was a loose twist-up cup that needed to be re-secured and it was repaired for no cost except my shipping.

So if you can get either of the the Zen-Ray versions, I'd say "Go for it!" :t:

 

[gcole]

Hi Chosun!

Thank you for your help!
I have now been looking at the Zen Ray ED - and also the HD Summit. How do they compare (other than being ED)? I must admit the ZRS HD Summit fits perfectly with the price range, FOV, and weight! Can anyone tell me more about it?

EDIT: Does ZRS HD have any fog protection?

HI Sinaeh ... I was given a pair of the ZRS HD Summit HD 3 weeks ago as a gift so that's why I could not comment until now(today) when I came across your questions. First I would like to answer your edit question ... on the box it says its waterproof/fogproof. Since I have looked thru the Atlas & owned the Zen Ray ED & the Ed2,ED3 models I think the Summit 8x42 HD is no doubt one of the best price to value binoculars I have ever had the pleasure to use. Now to the good part & I can not believe I would ever say this about a $200 Bino made in China ....... of all the 8x42 binoculars I have owned I can honestly say, while looking thru these I could not see any significant difference optically. I mean If I were buying a pair of 8x42 binoculars for the first time , I would buy the Summit 8x42 HD given their unbelievable price. How Zen Ray can market & produce such a nice binocular for $200-215 is amazing. If you need a binocular with great eyerelief/compact & with all the quality of a higher end product you really should try the Summit HD first. ....gwen:t:

 

[WiscTJK]

:hi: Welcome sinaeh!

I have a pair of re-branded Zen-Ray EDs Here's the Zen Ray and here's my Atlas Optics Intrepid EDs that I reviewed. See the similarities?

I can honestly say that I love the price to performance that I got out of these and they've been more than satisfying to use. The only change I would make would be to get the 8x42s for the wider FOV (yeah they are still a little hefty at 27oz) but they are magnesium bodied, waterproof, fog-proof and argon filled, they are really lots of bino for under $300. The open hinge design is also a plus.

And they have a great warranty too. The only problem over the years I had was a loose twist-up cup that needed to be re-secured and it was repaired for no cost except my shipping.

So if you can get either of the the Zen-Ray versions, I'd say "Go for it!" :t:

Zen-Ray and Atlas (Eagle Optics brand) are produced in the same factory, but you are dealing with 2 different companies. So there is Zen-Ray www.zen-ray.com and then there is Atlas www.eagleoptics.com.

Hope that helps.

Todd

 

[FrankD]

Close but not quite. The ZR ED and ED2 might have been made at the same factory as the Atlas Intrepid but ZR bought their own factory and started producing the ED3s and the Prime HDs there.

 

[Tantien]

Close but not quite. The ZR ED and ED2 might have been made at the same factory as the Atlas Intrepid but ZR bought their own factory and started producing the ED3s and the Prime HDs there.

Great info Frank. I will do some additional digging now. Thanks for the correction.

 

[Tantien]

Some interesting background about both Vortex and Eagle Optics: http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_2_277/159590_Who_is_Vortex_Optics_.html

 

[WiscTJK]

Some interesting background about both Vortex and Eagle Optics: http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_2_277/159590_Who_is_Vortex_Optics_.html

Great article and more information than I was aware and they are local to me. Thanks for sharing.

Frank thanks for correcting me. Where does one find that information on Zen-Ray buying its own factory?

Todd

 

[eitanaltman]

I think that's just inside info gleaned from talking to Charles (owner of Zen-Ray). When he came out with the ED3 line they discussed on this forum about how they had switched factories to try and get a tighter grip on quality control.

Interestingly, the ZRS HD seems to rarely get any quality control complaints despite being at a lower price point than the ED/2/3 series. I wonder if it's just that it's a simpler design so less to go wrong??

 

[FrankD]

Yes to Eitan's first paragraph and, good point, to the second. I didn't think of that before. If I remember correctly EDZ, over on cloudy night, actually found the ZRS to have better resolution in the two samples he compared.

 

[Steve C]

I know I brought up ZR's new OEM capabilities in my review of the ZEN ED 3 series. Charles told me he was thinking seriously of doing this. He had some problems with QC on the ED 2 series when that company lost some key personnel and couldn't replace them.

There really is very little difference in the optics of the ZRS and the ED 2-3 series. The best advantage for the ED series is in the ED glass for better control of color fringing, for those who are affected by it. If you are not, you would never guess the ZRS was not ED equipped.

The big advantage for the ZRS is the fact that it ius pretty small and compact for a full size 43 mm binocular.

 

[jaymoynihan]

This summer, I will be doing some field research in primatology and I need a pair of binoculars. I am a student and can only dream of the +$2,000 Swarovski binoculars...

sounds fun. Have you asked the primatologists what they use?
The type of primate and its habitat may affect my answer. I do not study primates, rather as a hobby, for me it is American Common Crow behavior, (AKA "flying monkeys") One of the binos I use is the Vortex version of this EO one (same bino/company) http://www.eagleoptics.com/binoculars/eagle-optics/ranger-ed-8x42-binocular They are really quite good.
They are my always near the front seat of the car bino.
The 42mm will be a plus if you are under a canopy or viewing into/past dusk. If it is Baboons you might wanna go with 10x42, given the more wide open (relatively speaking) habitat.
Anyway, I would suggest not dropping below 8x for behavior observation.
Have fun!