First Impressions of Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars promise a blend of high magnification and light-gathering capabilities, all wrapped in a durable and waterproof package. From Hawke Sport Optics, a name synonymous with quality and value in the optics world, these binoculars seemed like a promising option for various outdoor activities, especially given their relatively accessible price point of $189.99. For someone who spends a significant amount of time in the field, whether scouting hunting locations, observing wildlife, or even participating in search and rescue exercises, a reliable pair of binoculars is an essential tool.
I was looking for a pair of binoculars that offered a good balance between magnification and light transmission, without breaking the bank. My old 10×42 binoculars were showing their age, and I needed something with a bit more reach, especially for observing game at longer distances. The Hawke Vantage 12x50mm seemed to fit the bill, offering that extra magnification while still maintaining a reasonable exit pupil size.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the binoculars. The rubber armor provided a comfortable and secure grip, and the overall build quality seemed robust, especially considering the polycarbonate body. They felt surprisingly lightweight for their size, a welcome surprise considering the 50mm objective lenses. While I considered other options like the Nikon ProStaff 7S 10×42 (known for its excellent image quality) and the Vortex Diamondback HD 10×42 (praised for its ruggedness), the Hawke Vantage 12x50mm ultimately won out due to its higher magnification and attractive price point.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to put them to the test in the field and see if they lived up to the promise of delivering clear, bright images at long distances. I was excited to see if the 12x magnification would give me the edge I was looking for without sacrificing too much in terms of field of view or low-light performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars during several scouting trips in the mountains and a weekend-long camping trip. I wanted to see how they performed in real-world hunting conditions, observing wildlife at dawn and dusk, and navigating challenging terrain. The weather conditions varied from bright sunshine to overcast skies and even a brief rain shower.
The binoculars performed admirably in most conditions. The image was clear and relatively bright, even in the early morning and late evening. However, I did notice a slight decrease in clarity and brightness as the light faded further. They were easy to use, with a smooth center focus knob that allowed for quick and precise adjustments. After a few minutes of practice, I was able to quickly focus on objects at various distances.
After the first use, I noticed that the eye relief was a bit short for my liking, even with the twist-up eyecups fully retracted. This meant I had to press my eyes quite close to the eyepieces to get a full field of view, which could be uncomfortable during extended use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars have held up well. There are no signs of any significant wear and tear. The rubber armor has proven to be quite durable, protecting the binoculars from bumps and scratches. The lenses remain clear and free of smudges, thanks to the fully multi-coated optics.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a microfiber cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep them clean. Compared to my previous binoculars, the Hawke Vantage offers a noticeable improvement in magnification and image clarity, especially at longer distances. However, the slightly shorter eye relief is a drawback that I have to constantly adjust to.
Breaking Down the Features of Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars
Specifications
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars boast the following specifications:
- Magnification: 12x. This provides a significant boost in magnification for observing distant objects.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm. Allows for good light gathering, contributing to a brighter image.
- Prism System: Roof. Results in a more compact and streamlined design.
- Prism Material: BAK4. Provides excellent light transmission and image clarity.
- Eye Relief: 4.2 mm. This is on the shorter side, which may be a concern for some users, especially those who wear glasses.
- Exit Pupil: 4.2 mm. A reasonable exit pupil for general use, providing enough light to the eye in most conditions.
- Field of View: 263 ft at 1000 yds. A moderate field of view, adequate for scanning landscapes and locating targets.
- Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated. Enhances light transmission and reduces glare for a brighter, clearer image.
- Focus System: Center Focus. Allows for quick and easy focusing with a single knob.
- Interpupillary Distance: 61 – 75 mm. Accommodates a wide range of face shapes and sizes.
- Close Focus: 8.2 ft. Not ideal for very close-up observation, but sufficient for most outdoor activities.
- Weather Resistance: Yes. Provides protection against the elements.
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof. Ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.
- Length: 6.5 in. A relatively compact size for 50mm binoculars.
- Weight: 25.3 oz. Lightweight enough for comfortable carrying over extended periods.
These specifications translate to a versatile pair of binoculars suitable for various outdoor activities. The 12x magnification is great for spotting distant wildlife or targets. The fully multi-coated optics and BAK4 prisms contribute to a bright and clear image, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars perform their primary job of magnifying distant objects quite well. The image is clear and relatively sharp, with good color rendition. The focus mechanism is smooth and precise, allowing for quick and easy adjustments.
One of the strengths of these binoculars is their ability to gather light. The 50mm objective lenses provide a bright image, even in low-light conditions. The shorter eye relief and moderate field of view are the only weaknesses that need improvement. They meet my expectations for a mid-range pair of binoculars, providing a good balance between performance and price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hawke Vantage binoculars feature a polycarbonate body with a durable rubber armor coating. The rubber armor provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet. The binoculars are relatively lightweight, which is important for comfortable use over extended periods.
The center focus knob is easy to reach and operate, even with gloves on. However, the eye relief is a bit short, which may be uncomfortable for some users, especially those who wear glasses.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars appear to be quite durable. The rubber armor provides excellent protection against bumps and scratches. The waterproof construction ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a microfiber cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep them clean. With proper care, these binoculars should last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars come with a basic neck strap and lens covers. There are no significant customization options available directly from Hawke Sport Optics. The binoculars are compatible with standard tripod adapters, allowing for stable viewing during extended observation sessions.
Pros and Cons of Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars
Pros
- Excellent Value: Offers a great balance of performance and features for the price.
- Good Magnification: The 12x magnification provides a significant reach for observing distant objects.
- Bright Image: The 50mm objective lenses and fully multi-coated optics deliver a bright image, even in low-light conditions.
- Durable Construction: The polycarbonate body and rubber armor provide excellent protection against bumps and scratches.
- Waterproof: Ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.
Cons
- Short Eye Relief: May be uncomfortable for some users, especially those who wear glasses.
- Moderate Field of View: The field of view is adequate but not as wide as some competing binoculars.
- Close Focus Distance: Close focus distance of 8.2ft not ideal for very close-up observation.
Who Should Buy Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars?
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars are perfect for hunters, wildlife observers, and general outdoor enthusiasts who need a pair of binoculars with good magnification and light-gathering capabilities at an affordable price. They’re a great choice for those who want to upgrade from a lower-powered pair of binoculars without breaking the bank.
This product might not be ideal for users who require very wide field of view or those who wear glasses and need long eye relief. Those with unsteady hands may also want to consider a lower magnification.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality binocular harness to distribute the weight more evenly and keep the binoculars readily accessible. A lens cleaning kit is also essential for maintaining optimal image quality.
Conclusion on Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars are a solid and reliable option for anyone looking for a versatile pair of binoculars at an affordable price. The 12x magnification and 50mm objective lenses provide a good balance of reach and light gathering, making them suitable for a variety of outdoor activities. While the eye relief may be a concern for some, the overall performance and durability make them a worthwhile investment.
At $189.99, the price is justified given the features and performance offered. They provide excellent value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 12x50mm Fully Multi-Coated Roof Prism Binoculars to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable pair of binoculars for hunting, wildlife observation, or general outdoor use. They’re a great entry point into the world of high-powered optics without breaking the bank. Grab a pair and see what you’ve been missing!