Hey there, fellow night vision enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, and I’m excited to share my top picks for the best monoculars of 2024. As an avid hunter who’s spent countless nights stalking game in the darkness, I’ve had the chance to test out a wide range of night vision gear over the years. Let me tell you, having a quality monocular can make all the difference when you’re trying to spot that elusive buck or track movement in the distance.
Now, I know what some of you are thinking – why bother with a monocular when you could just use binoculars? Well, let me tell you from experience, there are definitely times when a compact, lightweight monocular is the way to go. They’re easier to pack, quicker to deploy, and give you that extra bit of maneuverability that can be crucial in the field. Plus, you can often get higher magnification in a monocular for a lower price compared to binoculars.
So without further ado, let’s dive into my top 10 picks for the most powerful long-distance monoculars of 2024:
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10×42 Monocular
Kicking things off, we have the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD. This bad boy has been my go-to for the past hunting season, and let me tell you, it hasn’t disappointed. The ED prime glass gives you incredible clarity and color, even in low light conditions. I was amazed at how well I could make out details on a deer over 200 yards away just before sunset.
Key Features:
– 10x magnification with 42mm objective lens
– ED Prime Glass for superior clarity
– Fully multi-coated optics
– Waterproof and fogproof
– Picatinny rail for easy mounting
One time, I was set up in my tree stand and spotted movement about 150 yards out. Thanks to the Legend’s crisp optics, I could clearly see it was just a coyote and not the buck I was after. That kind of clarity can save you a lot of unnecessary movement and noise.
Vortex Optics Recce Pro HD 8×32 Monocular
Next up is the Vortex Recce Pro HD. Now, this little powerhouse is specifically designed with hunters in mind, and it shows. The ranging reticle is a game-changer for quickly estimating distances in the field.
Key Features:
– 8x magnification with 32mm objective lens
– HD glass for enhanced resolution
– Ranging reticle for distance estimation
– Compact and lightweight design
– Utility clip for easy attachment
I remember using this on a backcountry elk hunt last fall. The utility clip made it easy to keep the monocular accessible as I navigated some rough terrain. When I finally spotted a bull across a ravine, the ranging reticle helped me quickly gauge the distance for a clean shot.
Zeiss Conquest 10×25 T* Monocular
If you’re looking for premium optics in a super compact package, the Zeiss Conquest is hard to beat. This little gem delivers the legendary Zeiss clarity in a pocket-sized form factor.
Key Features:
– 10x magnification with 25mm objective lens
– T* multi-layer coating for superior light transmission
– LotuTec water-shedding coating
– Compact and lightweight design
– Close focus distance of just 3 meters
I’ve found this monocular particularly useful for scouting trips. Its small size means I can always have it in my pocket, ready to glass distant ridgelines or check out potential bedding areas.
Leica Monovid 8×20 Monocular
Speaking of premium optics, we can’t forget the Leica Monovid. This is another ultra-compact option that doesn’t compromise on image quality. The build quality on this thing is just phenomenal.
Key Features:
– 8x magnification with 20mm objective lens
– Exceptional Leica optics and coatings
– Waterproof to 5 meters
– Close focus of 25cm with included close focus lens
– Elegant leather carrying case
While it’s on the pricier side, the Monovid is a joy to use. I’ve found it particularly useful for impromptu wildlife viewing. Just last week, I spotted a rare bird while out hiking and was able to get an incredibly detailed look thanks to the Monovid’s crisp optics.
Pulsar Axion 2 XQ35 Thermal Monocular
Now we’re getting into some serious night vision territory. The Pulsar Axion 2 is a thermal imaging monocular that lets you see heat signatures in total darkness. This thing is an absolute game-changer for nighttime hunting and observation.
Key Features:
– 2x-8x variable magnification
– 384×288 thermal sensor
– 1300-yard detection range
– Built-in video recording and Wi-Fi streaming
– 8-hour battery life
I used this on a night hog hunt in Texas, and it was like having superpowers. We could easily spot groups of hogs in pitch-black conditions from hundreds of yards away. Just be aware that thermal optics like this often have restrictions on when and where they can be used for hunting, so always check your local regulations.
ATN OTS LT 160 2-4x Thermal Monocular
Another excellent thermal option is the ATN OTS LT. This model offers a great balance of performance and affordability in the thermal monocular space.
Key Features:
– 2-4x magnification
– 160×120 thermal sensor
– 950-yard detection range
– One-shot zero sighting system
– 10+ hour battery life
What I love about this monocular is its simplicity. The controls are intuitive, making it easy to use even when you’re fumbling around in the dark. It’s been a great tool for tracking wounded game and spotting predators around my property at night.
Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8×25 Waterproof Monocular
If you’re looking for a rugged, no-frills monocular that can take a beating, check out the Nocs Provisions Standard Issue. This compact monocular is built like a tank and provides solid optical performance.
Key Features:
– 8x magnification with 25mm objective lens
– Fully multi-coated optics
– Waterproof and fogproof
– Durable rubber armor coating
– Lifetime warranty
I keep one of these in my truck at all times. It’s come in handy more times than I can count, whether I’m trying to read a distant road sign or spot wildlife from the highway. The lifetime warranty gives me peace of mind knowing it can handle whatever I throw at it.
Hawke Endurance ED 10×42 Monocular
The Hawke Endurance ED is another solid all-around performer that won’t break the bank. It offers excellent optical quality and durability at a reasonable price point.
Key Features:
– 10x magnification with 42mm objective lens
– Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass
– Fully multi-coated optics
– Waterproof and fogproof
– Twist-up eyecup for use with or without glasses
I’ve found this monocular to be a great option for both hunting and general nature observation. The ED glass really makes colors pop, which is especially useful when trying to identify different bird species.
Tract Toric UHD 10×42 Monocular
Tract may not be as well-known as some other brands, but they’re producing some seriously impressive optics. The Toric UHD monocular offers exceptional clarity and low-light performance.
Key Features:
– 10x magnification with 42mm objective lens
– UHD glass for enhanced clarity and color
– SCHOTT HT (High Transmission) glass
– Fully multi-coated optics
– Lifetime warranty
I was skeptical at first, but after using the Toric UHD on a recent deer hunt, I’m a believer. The image quality rivals much more expensive optics, and the low-light performance is outstanding. I was able to clearly see deer moving in a field well after sunset.
Maven CM.1 8×32 Monocular
Rounding out our list is the Maven CM.1. Maven has been making waves in the optics world with their direct-to-consumer model, and their monoculars are no exception.
Key Features:
– 8x magnification with 32mm objective lens
– Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass
– Fully multi-coated optics
– Waterproof and fogproof
– Customizable exterior options
What sets Maven apart is their build quality and customer service. Each monocular is assembled and quality checked in the USA. I’ve been impressed with the edge-to-edge clarity of the CM.1, and the compact size makes it easy to always have on hand.
Conclusion
There you have it, folks – my top 10 picks for the best monoculars of 2024. Whether you’re a serious hunter looking for high-end thermal optics or just want a reliable monocular for casual wildlife viewing, there’s an option on this list for you.
Remember, the best monocular is the one that fits your specific needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to try out a few different options to see what works best for you. And always invest in quality optics – your eyes (and your hunting success) will thank you.
Happy hunting and stay safe out there!