Written By John VanDerLaan
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In this review we will take an in depth look at these high quality Vortex optics and see why they were named an editor's choice for the best hunting binoculars under $200. I put these binoculars to the test, comparing them with some of my favorite binoculars to see how they stack up in head to head testing.
They are available in 8x42 and 10x42 models, both of which are ideal for hunting applications. I tested the 10x42 model
Here is what I found.
Our Rating
Vortex Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars Specs
- Magnification: 10X
- Focus System: Center
- Prism Type: Roof
- Close Focus (ft/m): 6 ft
- Eye Relief: 15mm
- Objective Lens: 42mm
- Exit Pupil: 5.25mm
- Field of View at 1000 Yds: 325ft
- Diopter: Right Eye
- Optical Coating: fully multi-coated
- Waterproof: Yes
- Fogproof: Yes
- Tripod Adaptable: Yes
- Weight: 23 oz
For a thorough explanation of what the numbers mean visit our Hunting Binoculars Buying Guide.
The Vortex Crossfire HD Binoculars features a rubber armor exterior providing a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.
They are nitrogen purged and O ring sealed for 100% waterproof and fogproof performance for those wet days in the field.
The Crossfire delivers crisp, razor sharp images thanks to the HD Optical System. They are optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission.
They also have a wide field of view, which is ideal for picking up moving targets.
These are all features that we are used to seeing in much more expensive binoculars.
RELATED: Best Hunting Binoculars Under $100
Build Quality
We are very impressed with the quality of the Crossfire HD Binoculars, given the under $200 price point.
Usually at this price point you are going to give up some of the higher end options, like Fully Multi Coated glass, but not with the Vortex Crossfire.
Vortex is proving that good binoculars do not have to cost a fortune.
You will find increased light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
RELATED: How To Properly Clean Binoculars
Perhaps the best quality feature is the Vortex VIP Warranty.
- UNLIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY
- FULLY TRANSFERABLE
- NO RECEIPT NEEDED
Design and Functionality
Vortex binoculars are rapidly becoming known for high quality design and functionality and the Crossfire is no exception.
They are lightweight and armor coated for an easy to grip, non slip surface.
They feature a smooth, center focus wheel for fast, comfortable focusing.
Couple that with HD Optical System and Fully Multi Coated Glass for excellent low light performance and you can see why we have chosen the Vortex Crossfire HD Binoculars as one of the best binoculars at this price point.
As an added bonus, the Crossfire comes with a GlassPak Binocular Harness, all at a great price!
Here is a video showing all of the features and optical quality of this entry level optic.
As you can see in the video, the Vortex Crossfire HD comes with the following:
- Tethered Objective Lens Covers
- Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
- Neck strap
- GlassPak Harness
- Manual
- Instruction Manual
- Lens Cloth
All for under $200!
RELATED: Vortex Viper HD Binoculars Review
PROs
- Nitrogen purged and O Ring sealed for 100% waterproof and fogproof performance.
- Armor coated chassis for lightweight, non slip and rugged design.
- Vivid, razor sharp images thanks to the HD Optical System and Fully Multi Coated Glass.
- Tethered objective lens covers.
- The Vortex Crossfire HD comes with the GlassPak binocular harness which keeps the binoculars comfortably on your chest.
CONs
- They are slightly heavier than more expensive binoculars, but it is very slight.
Vortex Crossfire HD 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vortex Crossfire HD 10x42 | Under $200 | 23 oz. | 325 Feet | 6.0 in. | 5.2 in. | 15mm | 6 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Bushnell Trophy 10x42 | Under $200 | 25.3 oz. | 330 Feet | 5.6 in. | 5.1 in. | 16mm | 10 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 HD 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 Viper HD 10x42 | $500 | 24.9 oz. | 341 Feet | 5.6 in. | 5.9 in. | 17mm | 6 Feet | Fully Multi Coated | Yes |
Final Verdict
I am always impressed with Vortex binoculars and it is no different with the Crossfire HD. It is a value price binocular featuring HD optics and rugged performance
We hope that you have found our review helpful.
If you are in the market for a good quality set of hunting binoculars under $200, you should consider the Vortex Crossfire HD, they are some of the best binoculars for the money.
