Written By Jesse Gillotti
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Wondering if the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars are worth it for your outdoor adventures? This Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars review covers their waterproof design, build quality, and optical performance to help you decide.
We first became aware of the Bushnell H2O Binoculars when we were doing research for our guide to the Best Hunting Binoculars. We reached out to our readers and asked "What are the best hunting binoculars under $100?".
There were a number of responses that came back with the Bushnell H20 Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binoculars.
Key Takeaways
- The Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars are fully waterproof, lightweight, and optimized for outdoor activities, but have limitations in low-light performance.
- User comfort is enhanced by a textured grip for handling in wet conditions, although the strap lacks features for prolonged comfort during extended use.
- While the binoculars offer good value for casual use, challenges such as clarity issues, limited field of view, and collimation concerns may affect overall satisfaction.
At first glance, the Bushnell H2O waterproof binoculars don't seem very special, aside from the fact that they're Bushnell binoculars.
But then you take a closer look, and you’re again reminded why Bushnell has acquired such an elevated reputation in the binoculars industry.
Even with the entry-level price, you will quickly realize that these hunting binoculars give you a lot of bang for your buck.
Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars are notable in the high-performance sports optics market. They are fully waterproof, designed to perform in the wettest conditions. This makes them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts facing unpredictable weather. Bushnell binoculars also offers a 20-year Ironclad warranty, underscoring their confidence in the product’s durability.
These binoculars cater to various outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and general nature exploration. Featuring 10x magnification and 42mm objective lenses, they offer detailed views of distant subjects. The non-slip texture and ergonomic design enhance grip and comfort, even in wet conditions. Independent tests confirm their waterproof capabilities, ensuring reliable performance during rainy adventures.
Despite the impressive manufacturer claims, a degree of skepticism remains. Are these binoculars truly game-changing? Our thorough review will scrutinize every detail to provide an honest assessment.
RELATED: Best Hunting Binoculars Under $200
Aesthetic and Build Quality
The Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars boast a functional and appealing design. The textured rubber armor offers a rugged look and enhances grip, making them easier to handle in wet conditions. Despite their full size, they are lightweight at approximately 620 grams, thanks to the aluminum body that balances durability with portability.
The build quality of the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars ensures they can endure challenging outdoor conditions. They are waterproof and fogproof, capable of withstanding immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without leaking. This construction ensures reliable performance even in rain or fog. Additionally, the binoculars can handle falls without significant damage, highlighting their sturdiness.
The neoprene neck strap enhances durability, providing a secure connection and comfort while carrying. However, the strap lacks distinctive features for prolonged comfort. Overall, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars are designed to be a reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts, capable of withstanding the rigors of nature.
Ergonomics and User Comfort
The ergonomics of the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars are designed for user comfort. Weighing 23.1 ounces, they are relatively light for their size, suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. The well-balanced design allows for steady holding over longer periods.
Grip and handling are critical aspects, and the Bushnell H2O 10x42 does not disappoint. The textured surface, with small dimples and bumps, aids in securely gripping the binoculars, even in wet conditions. This soft texture grip ensures they remain firmly in hand, reducing the risk of accidental drops.
While the strap is functional, it lacks features enhancing prolonged comfort. For extended use, this might be a minor inconvenience. Nonetheless, the balanced design and textured grip make the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars a comfortable choice for outdoor adventures.
Optical Clarity and Magnification
Optical clarity and magnification are standout features of the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars. They utilize fully multi-coated optics and BaK-4 prisms, known for improving light transmission and delivering sharper images. In bright conditions, the clarity and detail are impressive, making them suitable for activities like birdwatching and hiking.
However, performance in low light conditions is lacking. Users report that the binoculars are not well-suited for bird watching in low-light scenarios. The clarity and brightness are subpar, limiting usability after sunset. This is a significant drawback for early morning or late evening wildlife observation.
The Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars offer clear views up to around 1000 yards (914 meters) theoretically. However, stability can be an issue at higher magnifications, especially in windy conditions. Despite these challenges, the high magnification and quality optics make these binoculars a solid choice for detailed viewing in favorable lighting.
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Field Testing in Various Conditions
Field testing in various conditions revealed mixed results. In bright weather, the binoculars perform adequately, providing clear and detailed views. The waterproof design proves beneficial in rainy conditions, maintaining visibility without water damage.
In wet conditions, the fogproof design helps maintain clear viewing, preventing internal fogging. However, stability becomes a challenge at higher magnifications during windy conditions, impacting overall usability, especially in the most challenging conditions. This is particularly noticeable during activities like stargazing, where steady hands are crucial.
Testing in foggy conditions showed that these binoculars maintain visibility due to their fogproof design. However, performance in such challenging conditions may not match higher-end models. Despite these limitations, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars remain a reliable choice for most outdoor activities, from hiking to casual nature observation.
The center focus knob is large so it’s easier to adjust, and you also have adjustable twist-up eyecups, giving you up to 17mm of eye relief, making them perfect for those who wear eyeglasses or sunglasses.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite their strengths, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars have challenges and limitations. Clarity issues were noted during testing, with users experiencing blurring and vignetting, which can be frustrating during extended use. Brightness levels measured at 411 Lux indicate that the binoculars do not transmit as much light as some higher-end models, affecting performance in low-light conditions.
Customer feedback has highlighted issues with collimation and focus, leading to eye fatigue and headaches during prolonged use. The close focus range of around 11.8 feet is less than ideal for observing nearby subjects, limiting versatility. Additionally, focusing with the right eyepiece can be tricky, requiring patience and precision.
The field of view is somewhat limited, creating a tunneling effect that can detract from the overall viewing experience compared to higher-end models. While budget-friendly, these quality concerns may raise doubts about long-term reliability and durability. Potential buyers should weigh these factors when considering their purchase.
Pros and Cons
Now that we've discussed the features of the Bushnell H20 Binoculars, let's take a look at the pros and cons of these entry level hunting binoculars.
Pros
- At this price range, the images are exceptionally sharp, bright, and clear. You’ll be hard-pressed to find the same image quality among similarly priced binoculars.
- They utilize fully multi-coated optics and BaK-4 prisms
- They work well in low light conditions.
- They have good field of view.
- O ring sealed and nitrogen purged.
- They are lightweight, weighing in at 25 ounces.
- The large focus knob is extremely accessible, with lots of textured areas on the sides and on top, you can make sure that your grip won’t slip even when it’s raining.
- Completely waterproof and fogproof and can even survive being fully submersed in water.
- The adjustable long eye relief is ideal for those hunters that wear eyeglasses or sunglasses while hunting.
- The H20 comes with a neck strap and a carrying case.
- The biggest pro has to be the price. These hunting binoculars have a lot of great features for under $100.
Cons
- As good as all that sounds above, the Bushnell H20 binoculars are still an entry level binocular and the image quality will not compare to the more expensive hunting binoculars.
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Overall Assessment and Value for Money
The Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars offer a mix of strengths and weaknesses. They deliver adequate quality for casual outings or occasional use, with many users finding them satisfactory for their needs. However, they are not recommended for situations requiring high reliability and performance. The binoculars do not always provide the clearest view under all conditions, particularly in low light.
Despite some negative reviews, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars offer good value for money at their price point. They are accessible to a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. However, potential buyers should consider the cost of maintenance and repairs when weighing their options.
In conclusion, while not the best on the market, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars offer a decent balance of performance and affordability. For those seeking a budget-friendly pair for casual use, they are worth considering.
Alternative Options
Several alternatives to the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars provide better performance or value. The Nikon Monarch M7 10x42 is celebrated for its outstanding close focus range and ease of adjustment, making it a great choice for both hunters and bird watchers. Meanwhile, the Zeiss Terra Ed 10x42 binoculars offer exceptional clarity and construction quality, though they come at a premium price.
Other notable options include the Vortex Diamondback HD 10x42, which provides commendable brightness and clarity at a competitive price, ideal for beginners. The Burris Droptine 10x42 is another affordable option delivering good image quality, suitable for those new to binoculars.
These alternatives offer a range of features and price points, enabling users to find the perfect pair for their needs.
RELATED: Best Binoculars With Rangefinder
Final Verdict
Summarizing the review, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars are a solid choice for casual outdoor enthusiasts who need a budget-friendly option. They offer adequate optical clarity and durability for most conditions, though they fall short in low light performance. The binoculars’ ergonomic design and waterproof features make them a reliable companion for various outdoor activities.
However, potential buyers should be aware of their limitations, including clarity issues, collimation problems, and less-than-ideal close focus range. For those seeking higher performance, exploring alternative options like the Nikon Monarch M7 or Vortex Diamondback HD may be worthwhile. In conclusion, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars provide reasonable value for their price, making them a viable option for casual users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars truly waterproof?
Yes, the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars are fully waterproof and can endure immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without leaking.
How do the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars perform in low light conditions?
The Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars do not perform well in low light conditions, as users have noted issues with clarity and brightness. Therefore, they are better suited for brighter environments.
What are the main ergonomic features of the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars?
The Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars feature a well-balanced design and a textured surface for improved grip, ensuring comfort during use. These ergonomic elements enhance your viewing experience, making them a reliable choice for outdoor activities.
Is the Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars a value for the money?
The Bushnell H2O 10x42 binoculars provide good value for casual use, making them a suitable option for those who prioritize affordability over high-end performance. However, they may not meet the needs of users requiring top-tier reliability.
