The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular – 6.50″ Case, 5mm Exit Pupil, 17mm Eye Relief, 263 ft @ 1,000 yds Field of View, Shadow Gray Armor Coated, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, Roof Prism Type, 8.20 ft Short Focus, Fixed Magnification Magnification Stock, 10x Fixed Magnification Made a Bold First Impression
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular is a mid-range offering from Leupold, a company renowned for its quality optics, bridging the gap between entry-level and premium binoculars. These binoculars aim to deliver high-definition performance in a rugged, user-friendly package, boasting a 10x fixed magnification, a 50mm objective lens, and a shadow gray armor coated body. This combination piqued my interest, suggesting a blend of power, light gathering capability, and durability, crucial factors in the unpredictable environments I often find myself in.
Years of guiding backcountry hunts and assisting on search and rescue operations has instilled in me the need for reliable, clear optics. My old binoculars, while dependable, were starting to show their age, lacking the clarity and light transmission needed for dawn and dusk observations. I specifically sought a binocular that offered a wider field of view for scanning large areas, without sacrificing too much magnification.
Unboxing the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular revealed a well-protected piece of equipment, nestled securely within its 6.50″ case. The binoculars felt solid and well-balanced in hand, with the shadow gray armor coating providing a reassuringly grippy texture. My initial impression was positive; they felt like they could withstand the rigors of the field, and the included Pro Gear Accessories (shoulder strap, lens covers, and lens cloth) were a welcome bonus.
Compared to my old Bushnell Falcon 10×50 binoculars, the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD immediately felt like an upgrade in terms of build quality and ergonomics. I also considered the Vortex Diamondback HD 10×50, but the Leupold‘s reputation for excellent light transmission and the wider 263 ft @ 1,000 yds field of view swayed my decision. I was eager to see if the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD could truly deliver on its promise of high-definition performance and extended glassing sessions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular – 6.50″ Case, 5mm Exit Pupil, 17mm Eye Relief, 263 ft @ 1,000 yds Field of View, Shadow Gray Armor Coated, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, Roof Prism Type, 8.20 ft Short Focus, Fixed Magnification Magnification Stock, 10x Fixed Magnification to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular took place during a scouting trip in the Montana backcountry. The terrain was varied, ranging from dense forests to open meadows, and the weather shifted from bright sunlight to overcast conditions within a few hours. I used the binoculars extensively for glassing distant ridgelines, identifying wildlife, and navigating through unfamiliar territory.
The binoculars performed admirably in diverse conditions. Even in the low light of the early morning, the 50mm objective lenses gathered ample light, providing a clear and bright image. The fully multi-coated lenses noticeably reduced glare in bright sunlight, while the HD performance allowed me to pick out subtle details that would have been missed with lesser optics. Getting used to the focus was simple; The smooth central focusing dial allowed for quick and precise adjustments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. Despite being subjected to rain, dust, and accidental bumps, the binoculars show minimal signs of wear and tear. The shadow gray armor coating has held up well, providing excellent grip even when wet.
Maintaining the binoculars is simple; a quick wipe down with the included lens cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and fingerprints. The binoculars have consistently outperformed my expectations, offering a brighter, clearer, and more comfortable viewing experience than my previous optics. This has made long hours of glassing far less fatiguing.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular – 6.50″ Case, 5mm Exit Pupil, 17mm Eye Relief, 263 ft @ 1,000 yds Field of View, Shadow Gray Armor Coated, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, Roof Prism Type, 8.20 ft Short Focus, Fixed Magnification Magnification Stock, 10x Fixed Magnification
Specifications
- Magnification: 10x Fixed. The 10x fixed magnification offers a good balance between detail and field of view, ideal for general observation.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm (31-60mm). The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light, improving image brightness in low-light conditions.
- Exit Pupil: 5mm. A 5mm exit pupil provides a comfortable viewing experience, especially in bright conditions.
- Eye Relief: 17mm. The generous 17mm eye relief makes these binoculars suitable for users who wear glasses.
- Field of View: 263 ft @ 1,000 yds. The wide 263 ft @ 1,000 yds field of view allows for easy scanning of large areas.
- Short Focus: 8.20 ft. The 8.20 ft short focus is surprisingly helpful for closer observations like identifying plants.
- Prism Type: Roof. Roof prism binoculars are known for their compact design and durability.
- Case Size: 6.50″. The 6.50″ case protects the binoculars during storage and transport.
- Finish: Shadow Gray Armor Coated. The Shadow Gray Armor Coated finish enhances grip and protects against damage.
These specifications translate into a binocular that is well-suited for a variety of outdoor activities, offering a clear, bright, and comfortable viewing experience in a durable and user-friendly package. The combination of magnification, objective lens size, and field of view strikes a good balance for general use.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular performs its primary function – observation – exceptionally well. The image quality is crisp and clear, with excellent color fidelity and minimal distortion. The HD lenses provide enhanced resolution, allowing for the identification of fine details at a distance.
The binoculars excel in low-light conditions, thanks to the 50mm objective lenses and Leupold’s light transmission technology. While not the absolute best available, they provide a significantly better viewing experience at dawn and dusk compared to lower-quality optics. The only minor weakness is the close focus; I sometimes wish I could view objects closer.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes user comfort and functionality. The binoculars are surprisingly lightweight for their size, reducing fatigue during extended use. The shadow gray armor coating provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or cold conditions.
The focus wheel is smooth and easy to adjust, even with gloves on. The field replaceable eyecups are comfortable and provide a good eye relief for both glasses wearers and non-glasses wearers. There’s virtually no learning curve to these binoculars; pick them up and start looking.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular feels robust and well-built, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor use. The armor coated body provides excellent protection against scratches and impacts. With proper care and maintenance, these binoculars should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple: regularly cleaning the lenses with the included lens cloth. The binoculars are also waterproof, providing added peace of mind in wet conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular comes with a basic set of accessories: a 6.50″ case, a shoulder strap, lens covers, and a lens cloth. While these accessories are functional, there are limited customization options available for the binoculars themselves.
The binoculars are compatible with standard tripod adapters, allowing for stable viewing during extended observation sessions. Aftermarket lens cleaning kits can also be used to maintain optimal image quality.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular – 6.50″ Case, 5mm Exit Pupil, 17mm Eye Relief, 263 ft @ 1,000 yds Field of View, Shadow Gray Armor Coated, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, Roof Prism Type, 8.20 ft Short Focus, Fixed Magnification Magnification Stock, 10x Fixed Magnification
Pros
- Excellent Image Quality: HD lenses deliver crisp, clear images with excellent color fidelity.
- Good Low-Light Performance: 50mm objective lenses gather ample light for dawn and dusk observations.
- Durable Construction: Armor coated body protects against scratches and impacts.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: Lightweight design and comfortable grip reduce fatigue.
- Wide Field of View: 263 ft @ 1,000 yds field of view allows for easy scanning of large areas.
Cons
- Limited Customization Options: Few aftermarket accessories or modifications are available.
- Close Focus: The 8.20 ft short focus could be improved for closer observations.
Who Should Buy Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular – 6.50″ Case, 5mm Exit Pupil, 17mm Eye Relief, 263 ft @ 1,000 yds Field of View, Shadow Gray Armor Coated, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, Roof Prism Type, 8.20 ft Short Focus, Fixed Magnification Magnification Stock, 10x Fixed Magnification?
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular is perfect for hunters, birdwatchers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and high-performing binocular for general observation. The 10x magnification and wide field of view make them well-suited for scanning large areas and identifying distant objects. The durable construction and comfortable ergonomics make them ideal for extended use in the field.
Those who require extremely high magnification or specialized features like image stabilization may want to consider other options. Similarly, individuals on a very tight budget might find suitable alternatives at a lower price point, though they would likely sacrifice image quality and durability. A must-have accessory is a good quality tripod adapter for long-term glassing.
Conclusion on Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular – 6.50″ Case, 5mm Exit Pupil, 17mm Eye Relief, 263 ft @ 1,000 yds Field of View, Shadow Gray Armor Coated, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, Roof Prism Type, 8.20 ft Short Focus, Fixed Magnification Magnification Stock, 10x Fixed Magnification
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular represents a solid value proposition in the mid-range binocular market. At $180.99, the price is justified by the excellent image quality, durable construction, and comfortable ergonomics. These binoculars offer a significant upgrade over entry-level models and provide a taste of high-end performance without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD 10x 50mm Binocular to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile binocular for outdoor activities. If you’re in the market for a dependable set of optics that won’t let you down in the field, the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD should be at the top of your list. Get out there and see what you’ve been missing!