Vortex Optics Diamondback is a lightweight and compact binoculars for hiking. It has a lot of magnification power and objective lens models you can choose from. The body is equipped with ArmorTek which makes the binocular able to endure rainy and wet conditions. It also protects and prevents scratches and it is capable of resisting accidental bumps.
Let’s further discuss the features and performance of this binocular based on the following topics: design and build, clarity and brightness, and comfort and ease of adjustment. Keep reading our review to know whether this equipment is good for you or not.
Binoculars are handy when you’re outdoors because they allow you to see clearly within a long-range while keeping your distance. If you’re planning to get this equipment for yourself, we have a few recommendations of the best binoculars for hiking.
Verdict
From what we have gathered from our hikers who tested these binoculars, we conclude that this is a truly durable and compact equipment. What we like is the ability to endure the water and resist accidental collision because the body is protected with dependable rubber. If you are planning to go on an intense adventure we definitely recommend this equipment.
Design and Build
There are many types of binoculars that are well-built and have unique features. From our evaluations and testing, we can say that there is a wide range of selections in the field of this equipment. But, what is the most essential reminder you need to keep in mind before buying this instrument?
We suggest you read some user reviews and have a bit of the spec. If you want to know more, you can check our Everything You Need to Know About Binoculars article. We have summarized the specs and provided some tips on how to choose the perfect binoculars for you.
In this review, we will be focusing on what we have discovered and experienced with Vortex Optics Diamondback binoculars. Just a small idea, the manufacturer, Vortex Optics is a company that produces products like riflescopes, red dots, binoculars, tripods, rangefinders, spotting scopes, monoculars, apparel, and gears.
Now let’s proceed to the design and build of this binocular. The manufacturer has designed this to be purely black. Similar to the Nikon 7577 and other binoculars, the body is armored with rubber to secure and protect the exteriors of the Diamondback.
This is not only to control the damages when accidentally bumped but also to offer a non-slip grip and prevent scratches, oil, and specks of dirt. It is a great feature that is common with this equipment because it makes the body more compact and durable. This rubber material that covers the body is called ArmorTek coating, it is an advanced layer that is really sturdy.
Another feature that caught our attention with this binocular is the water and fog proof ability. Aside from the ArmorTek coating, you can ensure the safety of your equipment under wet weather conditions and different temperatures. The performance of this attribute is due to the O-ring seals which is a gasket to enclose the body of the binocular to prevent leaks.
Waterproofing is embedded by the manufacturer to protect the internal elements of this equipment from rain or water spills. So when you say waterproof, it is fully capable to endure under wet conditions but, water-resistant can only tolerate water drops and it is not advisable to soak it underwater. We included this as there are a lot of people who misinterpret this feature.
The prism lens of this binocular is the roof style. The body is a total lightweight which is an advantage for a hiker because it is a fact that they are traveling from one place to another. Using or carrying it for a long time is not a struggle. The body also allows the use of a tripod or window mount.
Lastly, from what we gathered with our hiker’s feedback, they notice the focus is not that clear and sharp.
Clarity and Brightness
Before we introduce the specs in this section of our review, we would like to inform you that the Vortex Optics Diamondback has several specs but we are focusing right now on the features of the DB-212 model with 8×32 magnification power and objective lens diameter.
The 8x magnification power can give you an extensive and wide view while the 32 objectives diameter is under the category of middle size. The higher the objectives, the better quality image.
As we already mentioned the magnifying ability and objectives of these binoculars, we will continue on its performance. The manufacturer has designed the lens with fully multi-coatings of anti-reflective coating. This type of coating is placed on the outer and inner parts of the lenses with multiple layers.
Anti-reflective coatings work like strainers to diminish the reflections and based on Vortex Optic’s specs description, this is a Dielectric coating that makes the images or views clear, brighter, and have good color quality that looks realistic.
Although we can’t say that the features are perfect, be reminded that this review focused only in one of the Diamondback. This binocular is also available in 10×28, 10×32, 10×42, 10×50, 12×50, 8×28 and 8×42 versions.
For the 8×32 version, the weight is 15.9 ounces or less than a pound. Eye relief is 16 millimeters and field f view is 8.1 degrees. Body dimension is 4.4 inches in height and 4.6 inches wide.
Just like any other hiking equipment, you need to properly take care of your binoculars so that they won’t break easily. If you’re not sure how to do this, read our article to learn how to clean and protect your binoculars.
Comfort and Ease of Adjustment
The body and build of this binocular clearly show a compact and durable structure. Not only can the looks attract you but also the weight and the protective features. Similar to the specs we have discussed in the guide on buying binoculars, you should be careful in choosing a unit for yourself. You should pay attention to the kinds of adventure you are taking or the place you are going to because it will greatly affect the performance of the binocular you bought.
Since this is a water and fog proof type, you can ensure the security of your binocular under rainy conditions or from different temperatures caused by the weather. Those factors can cause water leaks and fogs or moisture to appear on the lens of your equipment but as we have mentioned, it can resist those issues.
On the other hand, the strap provided is the same as other binocular’s strap but this is designed by Vortex Optics. It has a thick width cushioned form of the strap. The design of the strap complements the lightweight features where the carrying and usage make it more comfortable and easy. If you buy this instrument, you will have a padded storage bag for easy carry and secured storing.
Diamondback has the so-called twist up and down adjustable eyecups which is best for those with eyeglasses. The center focus works on both of the binocular’s barrel while the diopter which is positioned on the right eyepiece regulates the view of your eyes.
The focus adjuster is confirmed to be smooth and easy to fine-tune. It’s an advantage to the users for effortless modifications.
Conclusion
If you want to add more to your hiking adventures, we suggest that you pick up a pair of binoculars that will allow you to enjoy a much closer look at your surroundings. One of the binoculars that we recommend is the Vortex Optics Diamondback which we describe as a compact binocular for hiking. We like it because of the lightweight features and sturdy design that can withstand numerous circumstances.
The Armortek coating of this gear is a plus as it protects the binoculars from scratches and strengthens the internal parts when bumped. This coating can also provide the user with a good grip of the equipment making you feel secured in your hold. We recommend this if you are going on an extreme adventure.
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