Viper HD vs Talon HD (1 Viewer)

[snakyjake]

I'm considering either the Vortex Viper HD or Talon HD, in 8x42 or 10x42.

I've read Vortex's specifications, and the Talon has a wider field of view which I would assume to be a major advantage over the Viper. I tested them both out in the store, and it was difficult to tell the difference, except for the field of view. But perhaps the store isn't the best place for testing, or I didn't know what to look for.

Everyone says the Viper is better, but I don't know why.

What have people noticed to be the major differences between the two?

What else should I consider?

What should I look for when trying them out at the store?

Why the 8x and not the 10x?
I noticed magnification differences and depth of field (almost 3D effect).
Most of the birds I see are across water or fields, not in the woods.

Thanks,
Jake

 

[jremmons]

Hello Jake,

I have not personally used the Talon HD; I've read it is comparable in many respects to the Zen-Ray ED2 which if you search around the forums has received quite good reviews. Although this is a Made in China model, it is supported through Vortex which, if you read around, have some of the best customer and warranty service you could ask for. A BRIEF NOTE: if you are looking at the Talon HD, look instead at the Eagle Optics Ranger ED; it is currently available for around $330, and is an identical binocular sold by the same parent company with the same customer/warranty service. The only difference is the coloring of the armor and the logo.

I have handled the Viper in several configurations: 6x32 HD, 8x32 non-HD, and 8x42 HD. If the eye relief were a tad better, I believe the 8x32 HD would be the best of the configurations in that lineup; as I wear glasses, I found the ER just a bit short. That being said, the build quality of the Viper series is absolutely superb; the focus was perfect with no play/slop and just the right amount of tension, the eyecups were responsive and snapped in position, and it felt as if it could be run over by a vehicle and still function (note: I doubt this is the case).

If you want an all-purpose, general workhorse binocular you can't really go wrong with 8x magnification; it allows for easier scanning, easier handheld stability, and better depth of field. I find I only really use my 10x for distant waterfowl, perched raptors, and on occasion shorebirds.

Happy birding,
Justin

 

[typo]

Jake,

Making judgements in a store is very difficult. The lighting levels are low so sharpness differences won't usually be apparent, and the spectrum of the illumination can be very odd.

The Viper Talon/Zen-Ray ED2/EO Ranger/Hawke Frontier ED have been very popular models, offering a lot of performance for the money. As Justin says, the build quality of the Viper seems better, but also the lens and prism coatings and optical design. The differences may be small, but I think you would notice in a more extensive outdoor comparison that the Viper colours were a little brighter and cleaner, perhaps better contrast and less distortion. Only you can judge whether it's worth the price difference.

I'd again agree with Justin that the 8x32 is a real treat to use (fine with my glasses). Although I favour a light, low power models for general use, for longer distances in open countryside or the coast then I'll use a higher power and I suspect the bigger Talon might offer a steadier view for me. That is something you would need to check for yourself.

David

 

[winwinbino]

Hi Jake,

They are both very good bins at their price range. The Talon is slightly yellowish than Viper but sharpness same. The FOV of Viper 8x42 is too narrow at today's standard. Just pick anyone which is, according to yourself, more comfortable to hold and view. You won't be regreted.

Andy

 

[MPeoples]

I own a Viper 8x42 love them!!!!

 

[IHuntNUtah]

vipers felt better in my hands and color seemed just a little better. I would get them outside and choose whichever you like best. Cant go wrong either way.

 

[OpticsNerd1]

I know this thread is a month old but:

The Viper is made in Japan by Kamakura, Talon is Chinese. While the Vipers might have a slightly narrower field of view the built quality and glass quality are both better. I've looked at a lot and unless I find a deal on some Meostars or Kahles I will be getting 8x Vipers.

 

[Sam42]

I know I'm weighing in rather late here, but I will say that I've tried out both the Viper and the Talon and found the image on both to be great. For me, the ergonomics of the Talon were what sold me on it; in my hands, it feels better than the Viper.