
Vortex Diamondback 10×42 binoculars are truly surprising gadgets, though “gadget” seems a word too small somehow.
Though it is not only the birdwatchers among us that could appreciate the unique ability to see what binoculars of this caliber bring us. You can look on as a Bald Eagle, in all of its magnificence, dives for a fish in a salt-water lake.
How cool is that? If you are new to the world of binoculars and glassing, or if you are considering an upgrade from the binoculars that you now have, you should consider Vortex Diamondback binoculars.
Click here for more reviews of Vortex Diamondback Binoculars
Vortex Diamondback Binoculars Video Review – Watch Below

Vortex Diamond Binocular Review Summary
The Diamondback binocular by Vortex symbolizes the performance to price ratio in the optics niche.
The Diamond back is an amazingly efficient and high-performing set of binoculars with enhanced, dielectric fully multi-coated lenses. It shows a beautiful picture and has an impressively good low-light performance. Low light performance is extra important when glassing game and birds.
This set of binoculars has an ultra-wide, best-in-class field of view. So, you can effortlessly cover ground and pinpoint your target with ease.
It is both functionally and aesthetically pleasing. It has a thoughtful short-hinge design and a sleek look. Not only does it grab your attention, but it has plenty of room for your hands which makes it a lot easier to hold.
The Vortex Diamondback Binoculars is one of the best in it's price category.
Vortex Diamondback Binoculars Specifications
Vortex Diamondback 8x42 | Vortex Diamondback 10×42 | Vortex Diamondback 10×50 |
---|---|---|
Size8x42 | Size10x42 | Size10x50 |
Eye Relief17 mm | Eye Relief15 mm | Eye Relief17 mm |
Field of View393 ft/1000 yds | Field of View330 ft/1000 yds | Field of View315 ft/1000 yds |
Close Focus5 ft | Close Focus6.7 ft | Close Focus7 ft |
LensesBAK-4 | LensesBAK-4 | LensesBAK-4 |
Weight21.8 oz | Weight21.4 oz | Weight29.6 oz |
Dimensions5.8" x 5.1" | Dimensions5.8" x 5.1" | Dimensions6.7" x 5.5" |
READ REVIEWS | READ REVIEWS | READ REVIEWS |
What does 10x42 mean?
As you consider buying a pair of binoculars, your first move is to take steps to understand how binoculars are sized – so, when you read 10 x 42, what information are you being given?
The number 10, in this case, means that the object you are looking that – perhaps that red-tailed hawk – is ten times larger than seen with your naked (or eye-glassed eye).
Now, how about the number 42? This is a little trickier to explain. Binoculars have two lenses; one is further away from your eye than the other is; it is called the objective lens. (The objective lens is not the lens that you look through, it is the lens closest to the object, hence the name - objective lens.)
The number 42 would mean that the second lens is 42 millimeters in diameter. Now, what does the size of the objective lens tell you?
A larger objective lens lets more light into the binoculars. Generally speaking, this means that you can see a clearer image, though it depends on what you are trying to see.
The 10x42 size is one of the most popular among those who are seriously into watching wildlife, whether as a predator or an observer.
What about 10x50 and 8x42 Vortex Diamondback Binoculars?
These are also great choices. a 10x50 will have the same magnification as the Diamondback 10x42 but will allow more light and a better image. But, it will be bigger, heavier, and harder to carry around and hold to your face.
The Vortex 8x42 will have less magnification, but it will have a brighter image than the Diamondback 10x42. That's because the same mm objective lens over a smaller magnification means more light for each level of magnification.
So, just like a 10x50 has more light than a 10x42, an 8x42 has better light and image than a 10x42.
So, it's really down to your preference. The 10x50 is heavier but has a better image. The 8x42 Vortex Diamondback has a better image, but less magnification.
We've linked to both options above. It ultimately comes down to your preference and what you're using it for.
If you're still not sure, check out our ultimate binoculars buyers guide.
Benefits of Vortex Diamondback Binoculars
We've already given a brief rundown of the diamondback and it's overall place vs its competition. Let's dive into the specifics now.
Waterproof
Until you’ve been out on a ocean-side cliff watching fluffy baby eagles as they lay sleeping in a nest – and the rains come, you cannot fully appreciate how important it is for your binoculars to be sturdily waterproofed.
Who wants to pack in it when you are reveling such a visual treat?
Not a hiker. Not a photographer. And not a binocular-wearer.
Fluff aside, these are 100% waterproof and fog proof. So you're in good shape regardless if it's misting or just hot and humid.
Fog proof
What is the science behind Vortex’s fog proofing feature?
Oxygen is purged from the barrels of the binoculars and then replaced with argon gas.
Internal fogging of binoculars used to happen when temperatures dropped abruptly; argon gas does not fog up like oxygen in said circumstances because any water vapor doesn't get below it's condensation point inside the binoculars.
(Oxygen, we love to breathe you in, but we don’t want you fogging up the innards of our binoculars.)
Rubber Coating
Do you know what makes rubber such a sought-after material in binoculars and cameras?
It is easy to hold on to in any conditions; come rain, snow, sleet or hail.
Think about it. We grip on to rubber on our bicycle handles, on our pliers and even on our fancier pens. You really don’t want to drop your binoculars, even if they are as sturdy as those made by Vortex.
Comfortable viewing
Whether you are using your binoculars for bird watching, to track an oncoming winter storm, or to help you hunt, you want them to feel comfortable against your eyes. Vortex Diamondback binoculars have adjustable eyepieces, so that you get the fit you need.
Easy focusing
Some binoculars have you focus each barrel individually, you can focus these binoculars with a central focusing ring. This means less fussing about as that Eastern Coyote wanders into your sight. Or a black bear if you are tramping along a little-worn trail in Maine.
First you focus the central wheel, then you adjust your right eye to compensate for any difference between your eyes.
Once the right eye is adjusted, you probably won't ever have to touch it again and can just adjust the central focusing knob.
So you see differently from each eye?
If you have better vision in your right eye or vice versa, Vortex binoculars has you covered. You can adjust the binoculars to suit both of your eyes easily.
Tripods?
If you are an amateur photographer you will be wondering if you can use a tripod with Vortex binoculars.
You can, though you do have to buy a special adapter in order to do so.
Tripods remove the risk of binocular shake which is the unsteady image you see when you hold it to your eyes. All people move ever so slightly, even when trying to be perfectly still. This is never more obvious than when looking through a scope or binoculars.
Pricing
The Vortex Diamondback binoculars of the size 10 x 42 bring all of the power you need at a deductive price.
At the time of writing this article, you could pick up a pair of these worthy binoculars at Amazon.com for only between $200 and $250 with free shipping thrown in.
The $200+ range is a competitive area where people are shopping on price and features. Of course, if you want all the best features, you can easily spend $2,000+. If you want cheap binoculars, you can get them for less than $40. But, the $200-$500 range is really where you find the features vs price competition.
That's where the Vortex Diamondback excels. At the lower end of the range, it offers features usually seen in $300+ binoculars.
In conclusion
A pair of worthy binoculars can change how you experience the natural world. Imagine being able to zoom in on a flock of Bohemian Waxwings as they settle on an old apple tree in the spring.
Or watching a American White rabbit as she hops along a briar patch (yes, they actually do this). Or turning your binocular-clad upwards to take a much closer look at the night sky on a summer’s eve.
If you love the great outdoors, if you miss it when you are not in it, Vortex Diamondback binoculars are something you must have. You owe it to yourself.
If you have a trusting friend who has a pair of Vortex binoculars, ask if you can take them out for a spin. (Hey, you’ll be super careful with them.)
The likelihood is that you be impressed – and that there will be a neatly wrapped package of binoculars on their way to your front doorstep before you can say “ Is that a Black-bellied Whistling Duck or the Fulvous?”
Vortex Diamondback Review

Other Vortex Diamondback Reviews
Hi,
I'm very pleased with my Vortex New 2016 8x42 binoculars. Compared to the Bushnell Naturview 8x42 binoculars that I've been using for the last 3 years the Vortex are much better. They are brighter, clearer, lighter, focus better, handle better and have the incredible Vortex Warrantee.
I got to experience Vortex support a few months ago when I dropped my Vortex Razor Spotting Scope on a sharp rock shattering the optical eye piece. When I called Vortex I made it clear that it was my fault, but they told me "no matter the cause we take care of you". I paid the cost of shipping the scope to Vortex. They replaced the eye piece tested the performance of the new eye piece with the rest of the scope to ensure the combination passed like new performance. Vortex then shipped the repaired scope back to me with no charge.
That experience had a lot to do with the reason I chose Vortex when I purchased my new binoculars.
First impressions:
They're smaller than I expected, if you have large hands you will find it difficult to find comfortable hand placement, but, they're compact, which is good.
The case they're sent with is too large, something about optics and bouncing/flopping randomly just doesn't seem compatible to me, I'll need to find a better case.
Construction appears to be very solid, but the main focus knob has a slightly less than appropriate amount of resistance. The lens covers that come along with it appear to work well, but also seem prone to failure, just my impression.
They provide a very clear, very rich image, but, my pair also seems to have an extremely mild distortion towards the very edges of your field of view, and, they're somewhat sensitive to adjust and focus.
The 8x42s provide a larger exit pupil, which translates into superior low light image rendering, to that extent these perform as expected, which is well.
Definately worth the money, very aesthetically pleasing, comes with a lifetime warranty so you can't go too wrong.
Upon receipt, I attempted to focus the binoculars in accordance with the instructions, but the binoculars could not be focused. Having received another pair of 10x42 Diamondbacks earlier, they focused just fine and are a Great pair of binocs. Not these 10x50 Diamondbacks.
Last year I had purchased a pair of Redfield Rebel 10x50 for about $135 all said and done, and for the price, I will say those are an excellent set of Bino's, and I always got compliments.
This year however, I really wanted something a little lighter weight, as I spend a lot of time on my feet, so any weight I could shed on my neck/back was most welcome. I had a hard time choosing between the Leupold BX-2 Acadias and these. And owning Leupold Scopes, and range finders I was originally leaning that direction, but sadly(or not?), Hunting season was here! and Amazon was not offering Prime on the 10x42's in the BX-2, so I decided to bite the Bullet on these new 2016 Model Diamondbacks.
So far I absolutely love them! They are light, but not a "cheap" feeling light.
They are extremely comfortable in hand, and very sharp glass quality, surpassing my Redfields(note they are a Leupold Company now) by a small margin! One thing that really stood out in comparison to my old pair is the lighting quality, very clear and bright! especially in lower light conditions!
I was beyond impressed. The carrying case it comes with is awesome, and a nice change over many other "pouch style" carrying cases form other manufacturers. Overall I am super satisfied with this set of Binoculars especially given the price tag! I really would have liked to compare the BX-2 & Diamond back side by side, however our local Cabelas was out of stock in both in the 10x42 size, so it is what it is!
But I can say I strongly do recommend these! This past weekend I was out with my 2 Brother in laws & my father in law, and they were shocked how bright and clear the image was. Says enough for me!
UPDATE 11/3/2016
Went in to Cabelas today now that they have both the Vortex Diamondbacks & Leupold BX2's in stock in the 10x42. Comparing side by side, glass quality was neck and neck, but I would almost favor the Diamondbacks in sheer "crisp image" factor. But honestly to close to really call, especially in store.
One thing for sure I can tell you is that the 10x42 Leupold BX-2's were a substantial amount heavier, which to me is a con, also far bulkier feeling in general. The feel if the Diamondbacks in hand is far more comfortable than that of the BX-2's. All while the Diamondbacks are $30-$40 cheaper depending on current market value. Vortex get's my call on this one!
Vortex Diamondback Reviews From Around the Web
That Vortex Diamondback binoculars bring nifty features and stability is indisputable. Let’s delve a little deeper and see what online reviewers have to say about this product. Do they rant or do they rave?
opticplanet.com shows 9 reviews of these binoculars on their Website, with an average rating of 4.9 out 5. Hunters of deer and elk and birdwatchers alike extol the virtues of durability, toughness and clarity of images.
Over at opticsreviewer.com, we found a solid review with kudos given to the roof design of pyramid shape, the comfortable neck strap, the rubber that is easy to clutch when rain falls.

A review from backcountrychronicles.com also sings the praises of these binoculars, tipping its electronic hat to their visibility, portability and especially to the warranty that comes along with them at the time of purchase. (We all like to know that a manufacturer stands behind its products.)
To close out our round of up salient reviews we turn to Amazon.com Overall, 83% of customers rate it at a full 5 stars and only 7% rate it at 3-stars or below.
The answer is clear, this is an amazing pair of binoculars.
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