Written By John VanDerLaan
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In this review we will take a look at this inexpensive binocular to see if it offers the features and durability that you are looking for. I had the opportunity to test the Bushnell Trophy 10x42 binoculars over the past year.
I carried them, along with a second set of binoculars when I was glassing fields for deer in the summertime, and then in my pack when I was hunting.
By always carrying two sets of binoculars I was able to compare the optical performance of each in all types of conditions.
Here's what I found.
Our Rating
Bushnell 10x42 Trophy Binoculars Specs
- Magnification: 10X
- Focus System: Center
- Prism Type: Roof
- Prism Glass: BAK4
- Close Focus (ft/m): 10 ft
- Eye Relief: 15.2mm
- Objective Lenses: 42mm
- Exit Pupil: 4.2 mm
- Field of View at 1000 Yds: 330ft
- Diopter: Right Eye
- Optical Coating: fully multi-coated
- Waterproof: Yes
- Fogproof: Yes
- Tripod Adaptable: Yes
- Weight: 25.3oz
For a thorough explanation of what the numbers mean visit our Best Binoculars For Hunting Buyers Guide.
The Trophy Binoculars feature an ergonomically designed body that feels great in your hands.
They are armor coated and 100% waterproof thanks to being O-Ring sealed and Bushnell's IPX-7 waterproof construction.
They are also fogproof thanks to being nitrogen purged.
These Bushnell Binoculars are rich in features and deliver best in class durability and clarity.
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Build Quality
Bushnell Trophy Binoculars deliver on quality by providing many of the features of higher end binoculars at a much lower price.
Trophy Binoculars feature BAK4 prisms and fully multi coated lenses that deliver bright, high contrast images.
They also have lead free glass and the armor coating makes them easy to grip, while providing protection from drops and bumps.
Heavy-duty, 100% waterproof and fogproof construction
I love the fact that Bushnell stands behind their product, but the "No Questions Asked" Lifetime Warranty takes that to another level.
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Design and Functionality
These binoculars feature a small ergonomic design, with a textured, non glare, non slip rubber coating and a large focus wheel that makes focusing easy, even with gloves on.
We love the objective lens covers that actually fit, unlike some other binoculars in this class.
They performed very well for me in low light conditions, especially considering the price point.
Couple that with lead free glass, BAK4 prisms and fully multi coated lenses and you can see why we have chosen the Bushnell 10x42 Trophy Binoculars as one of the best hunting binoculars under $200.
PROs
- Nitrogen purged and O-Ring sealed for 100% waterproof and fogproof performance.
- BAK4 Prisms
- Slim, Ergonomic shape with a no slip grip and large focusing wheel for easy, quick focus, even with gloves on.
- Bright, clear images thanks to fully multi coated lenses
- Lead Free Glass
- Bushnell Lifetime Warranty
CONs
- They are on the heavy side.
- While they are a good pair of binoculars, they do not compare to more expensive models.
- Does not include a harness.
Bushnell Trophy Binoculars Compared To Other Binoculars We Have Tested
Price (approx): | Weight: | Field Of View | Length: | Width: | Eye Relief: | Close Focus | Lens Coatings: | Waterproof and Fogproof | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bushnell Trophy 10x42 | Under $200 | 25.3 oz. | 330 Feet | 5.6 in. | 5.1 in. | 16mm | 10 Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
Celestron Outland X 8X42 | Under $100 | 23.6 oz. | 368 Feet | 5.75 in. | 4.96 in. | 17.8mm | 13.1 Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
Nikon Prostaff 10x42 P7 | Under $200 | 21.2 oz. | 367 Feet | 5.9 in. | 5.1 in. | 15.7mm | 9.8 Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
CARSON 3D 10x42 | $300 | 22 oz. | 314 Feet | 5.5 in. | 5.0 in. | 16mm | 9.8 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Nikon MONARCH M5 10X42 | $300 | 22.6 oz. | 293 Feet | 5.7 in. | 5.1 in. | 18.4mm | 8.2 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Nikon MONARCH M7 10X42 | $500 | 24 oz | 362 Feet | 5.6 in. | 5.1 in. | 16.5mm | 8.2 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Vortex Diamondback 10x42 | $200 | 21.3 oz. | 330 Feet | 5.7 in. | 5.1 in. | 15mm | 5 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Burris Droptine 10x42 | Under $200 | 26 oz. | 330 Feet | 5.6 in. | 4.8 in. | 15mm | 7.5 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Vortex Crossfire 10x42 | Under $200 | 24 oz. | 325 Feet | 6.0 in. | 5.2 in. | 15mm | 6 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Vortex Viper HD 10x42 | $500 | 24.9 oz. | 341 Feet | 5.6 in. | 5.9 in. | 17mm | 6 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
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Final Verdict
The first pair of binoculars that I ever owned were Bushnells, and even though that was more than 40 years ago, I still have a soft spot for Bushnell products.
That being said, these are entry level binos that perform okay in low light conditions and provide great value.
I found these binos to be significantly heavier than others that I have tested, making it difficult to glass fields over long periods of time without fatigue setting in.
If you can afford a little more expensive binoculars, you will find a big jump in image quality and optical performance.
If you are in the market for a new pair of binoculars with decent image quality at a low price, you should consider the Bushnell Trophy Binoculars.
