Kowa Genesis 44 10.5x44mm vs Zeiss Conquest HD 10x42

[mwh624]

Getting the itch to upgrade my Nikon Monarch 5 binoculars this black Friday season.
These two Bins seem to be at the top of the $1k list.
Mostly used tree stand hunting whitetails in west central Minnesota..
I'd prioritize low light performance and sharpness over some extra weight and size, so long as they fit in my Sitka Mountain Optics Harness.
Durability is also a huge plus as at some point I'll probably drop them out of my stand (chest harness should hopefully help eliminate this)

Open to any other options as well.

Thanks for reading

 

[gr8fuldoug]

The Kowa Genesis is the way to go. Please feel free to give us a call, 516-217-1000, to discuss this. Happy Thanksgiving

 

[Spiral Horn]

Would recommend trying before buying, if possible. Both are among the very best at the $1k and under price-point, but they are a bit different. The Kowa may slightly edge the Conquests optically with less CA due to its 2x high fluoride lens elements, but the Conquests are very sharp as well. The Kowa is physically larger and heavier, and lacks a pre-threaded slot for tripod adapter (if that matters to you), but many like its armor better than that of the Conquest. Normally, the Kowa is a few $-hundred more than the Conquest, but Doug sometimes offers incredible deals where they are about the same price for Rokslide members.

Cannot loose either way.