optics..Nikon vs Vortex

[Teamroper]

Still need to introduce myself, but in the mean time I have a question...I had a set of Bushnell Legend 10X42's stolen from me so I guess its time for some new glass. Dont want to spend a heck of a lot of money and was looking for opnions from you guys. I have seriously been considering the Nikon Monarchs or the Vortex Diamondbacks both in 10X42 power. 

Whats your thoughts? I will be using the glass mostly for deer and elk and occasionally waterfowl..thanks fellas

Im sure this topic has been discussed a bunch already, but im new yet 

[snohohunter]

I bought the Vortex Vipers from Elknut and they're outstanding.  I can't say enough good things about them.

In regard to Vortex warranty and customer service..I first lost the top lens cap ( ), so I called and no questions, just sent me a new one, but they also sent me spare bottom caps as backup, anti-fog solutions and a lens pen. 

[Intruder]

I bought the Vortex Vipers from Elknut and they're outstanding.  I can't say enough good things about them.

In regard to Vortex warranty and customer service..I first lost the top lens cap ( ), so I called and no questions, just sent me a new one, but they also sent me spare bottom caps as backup, anti-fog solutions and a lens pen. 

+1... I had the same experience with my vortex spotter.  Vortex has a warranty policy that's awesome.  I think they are making some of the best values in optics out there and backin em with a no questions asked warranty.  Those Vipers are especially nice binos for the $. 

[columbiaman]

I have a pair of Monarch and they are great glasses. You won't go wrong with them. There have been some discussion on new zen-ray VISTA lately. It seems everyone who has tried it likes it. For $100, it seems to be one heck of deal, epsecially its quality is as good my Monarch. I compared diamondback with my monarch and found the Monarch still wins hands-down for sharpness and easy of use. Vortex Razor is quite good, almost as good as those expensive Swaro binoculars. just my 

[thinkingman]

No experience with Vortex except Razors.
Monarch is very good glass in that price range.
Good 10X is more difficult to produce in that price range.
Maybe be happier with 8X?

[Tony 270WSM]

I like Nikon products, but the Monarch binos never fit my eyes. No matter how much I try to adjust them, using both adjustments, I can't get them to look like they are one working together. My eyes strain a little to focus and then have to refocus when I take them away. The Diamondbacks looked and felt great from the start.

[jackelope]

hit elknut1 up on here for some info on the vortex diamondbacks...he's a dealer and a site sponsor.

[Bean Counter]

I own Nikon 8x42 Monarch ATBs and love 'em.

If you're even thinking that you could afford Nikon, don't even look at the Vortex or Zen Rays unless they have fully multicoated lenses.  Just my $0.02. 

[robodad]

I have a pair of the Zen-Ray's Vista in 8X42 that I am field testing and I have to tell you that they are very good optics, everyone I show them to are impressed with them. they are fully multi coated water/fog proof and built like a tank with an almost armor coating !!! Don't be discouraged by the cheap price tag either, these are quality optics 

[columbiaman]

I have a pair of the Zen-Ray's Vista in 8X42 that I am field testing and I have to tell you that they are very good optics, everyone I show them to are impressed with them. they are fully multi coated water/fog proof and built like a tank with an almost armor coating !!! Don't be discouraged by the cheap price tag either, these are quality optics 

It is fully multi-coated/waterproof and equals to my Nikon Monarch under all conditions. I am wondering how long they will run this promotion. But if you have $300 to spend, get this one and keep the rest for something else.

[stumprat]

I just bought a pair of vanguard binos. Seem brighter than my nikon monarchs. Bak4 prisms and fully multi coated $169.