Which Optics should I Use?

No_Murphy

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Sep 5, 2023
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18
So I am having an issue deciding on what optics to choose. I have been looking to spend around $500. I have it narrowed down to 3 pairs. Maven C.1, Leupold BX-4 pro guide and Athlon Cronus G2 UHD. I am going on an antelope hunt in October and will be getting the demo pair of mavens to test them out against a lesser pair of binos just to be sure I want a $500 pair of binos. Never had any that are this expensive. Just looking for some advice. Thanks in Advance.
 

gr8fuldoug

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It's our pleasure, as a long standing supporting vendor here, to discuss the different available options and special opportunities with you. Please give a call, 516-217-1000, when you have the time. Thanks
 

nobody

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Sep 15, 2020
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I would vote the Maven's, but change it up and recommend the C.3 10x50 and not the C.1's (larger exit pupil = improved low light performance)

Leupold's eyecups are some of the worst I've ever messed with. Way too wide, and I've never looked through a pair and NOT had vignetting around the edges.

I've not been impressed with the Athlon products I've had experience with, so they wouldn't even be on my list if I was shopping, let alone be in my top 3.

Below $1k, the Maven C series cannot be beat.
 
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No_Murphy

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Sep 5, 2023
Messages
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I would vote the Maven's, but change it up and recommend the C.3 10x50 and not the C.1's (larger exit pupil = improved low light performance)

Leupold's eyecups are some of the worst I've ever messed with. Way too wide, and I've never looked through a pair and NOT had vignetting around the edges.

I've not been impressed with the Athlon products I've had experience with, so they wouldn't even be on my list if I was shopping, let alone be in my top 3.

Below $1k, the Maven C series cannot be beat.
Thanks for the comment. I meant the C.3. Guess I looked at it incorrectly the first time. I’ve always had 10x50 binos, just the very big and clunky ones. I would like to stay with 10x50 unless I could find a much better brand in 10x42 with the same cost.
 

nobody

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Sep 15, 2020
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Thanks for the comment. I meant the C.3. Guess I looked at it incorrectly the first time. I’ve always had 10x50 binos, just the very big and clunky ones. I would like to stay with 10x50 unless I could find a much better brand in 10x42 with the same cost.
Even if you go with a "better bino" a 10x50 makes a huge difference in low light performance, all else being equal. 10x50's will always outperform 10x42's of the same product line or product quality. If you're buying a 42mm objective bino, buy the 8x42's. But then again, I don't think 8's have a place in Western hunting, but that's just me and I'm admittedly biased.

Bottom line, if you're buying 8's, buy 8x42's
If you're buying 10's, buy 10x50's

Low light performance matters.
 
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I would vote the Maven's, but change it up and recommend the C.3 10x50 and not the C.1's (larger exit pupil = improved low light performance)

Leupold's eyecups are some of the worst I've ever messed with. Way too wide, and I've never looked through a pair and NOT had vignetting around the edges.

I've not been impressed with the Athlon products I've had experience with, so they wouldn't even be on my list if I was shopping, let alone be in my top 3.

Below $1k, the Maven C series cannot be beat.
FWIW I got Athlon Cronus UHD for my son and I'm shocked at how good they are when I try then back to back with my NL Pures (both are 10x42). I've had the same reaction from friends who've tried them.
 
Last edited:

atmat

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Jun 10, 2022
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So I am having an issue deciding on what optics to choose. I have been looking to spend around $500. I have it narrowed down to 3 pairs. Maven C.1, Leupold BX-4 pro guide and Athlon Cronus G2 UHD. I am going on an antelope hunt in October and will be getting the demo pair of mavens to test them out against a lesser pair of binos just to be sure I want a $500 pair of binos. Never had any that are this expensive. Just looking for some advice. Thanks in Advance.
I’ve played with the Maven and owned the BX4 for a while and they’re both great. I thought the BX4 was a little better, but for the price difference would recommend the C1.
 
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