Vortex - 8x42 Viper HD Binoculars (2018 Edition)

Pentax Sport Optics Binocular Roundup

This updated 2018 version of the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars get upgraded with a wider field of view and longer eye relief from the previous iteration to make views more spacious and viewing through them easier and more comfortable.

Optically, these binoculars benefit from proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics that maximize light transmission through the light path and improve contrast and color rendition across the entire visual spectrum. The compact roof prisms are dielectric coated. Phase-corrected coatings limit internal interference, light loss, and diffraction while maximizing light transmission through the prism system. These features work together to produce bright, sharp, and clear high-contrast views with accurate color fidelity and crisp resolution. The larger objective lenses boost the binoculars' light-gathering capabilities to draw in the available light and maintain bright images even when conditions are less than ideal, such as in the predawn and late dusk hours or when looking into dense brush or using under heavy cloud cover.

Complementing the optical performance are construction details that allow the Viper HD to withstand the rigors of the trail. The optical tubes are O-ring sealed and argon filled to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging if the weather turns or they take an accidental spill in a stream or puddle. Protecting the optical components is a polycarbonate chassis that is lightweight and durable as well as resistant to the expansion and contraction that metal suffers from and which can lead to fuzzy views over time. Vortex includes a GlassPak binoculars harness case that protects the optic when not in use while keeping them close to your body, preventing swinging and swaying as you move or climb over rough and rocky terrain. Objective lens caps and a one-piece ocular rainguard protect the exterior lens surfaces. To keep the caps and rainguard safe during use, they are tethered to the body and strap, respectively.

Christopher Witt

11 months ago

Todd Vorenkamp

5 years ago

Todd Vorenkamp

5 years ago

Christopher Witt

4 years ago

User Manual

0.2 MB

Optical Performance

8x power brings subjects in for observations without sacrificing field of view, eye relief, and exit pupil

42mm objective lenses boost light-gathering capability versus smaller lenses for improved vision in challenging conditions such as at dawn and dusk

Compact roof prism light path ensures performance without adding excessive weight and bulk

Phase-correcting prism coatings eliminate internal interference to improve color and contrast

Dielectric prism coatings boost internal prism reflectivity to greater than 99% to maximize light transmission through the prism with minimal loss and diffraction

High-density (HD), extra-low dispersion (ED) glass lens elements reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations for increased contrast and improved color rendition and sharpness without distortion across the entire field of view

Proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics increase light transmission for accurate color fidelity and improved contrast and clarity

ArmorTek exterior lens coatings resist scratches and abrasions while allowing oil, dirt, and sap to be cleaned off without leaving smudges or residue

Short 6.5-foot minimum focusing distance allows for extremely detailed observations of small birds, bugs, insects, flora, and fauna at close range

Wide 62° apparent angle of view provides a spacious field of view

Generous 409-foot field of view at 1000 yards

Use and Handling

Closed bridge configuration provides a solid platform for the internal focusing mechanism

Large slip-resistant center focus knob is easy to manipulate in cold and wet weather or while wearing gloves

Locking right eye dioptric correction lets you compensate for individual eye prescription for tack-sharp views

56-75 mm interpupillary distance range allows easy viewing by a wide variety of users

Twist-up click-stop rubber eyecups for comfortable use with or without eyewear

Tripod mountable with an optional adapter for hands-free use to reduce vibration and arm fatigue

Long 18mm eye relief reduces eyestrain to make for more comfortable viewing, especially over extended periods

Wide 5.25mm exit pupil will completely cover pupils as they open and fully dilate in low light to ensure the whole scene remains in view without vignetting

Construction Details

Lightweight and impact-resistant polycarbonate chassis

Chassis material is temperature resistant, limiting the expansion and contraction that can occur with metal materials and which can cause the optical components to move out of alignment over time

Rubber armoring provides protection from bumps and impacts while offering a positive slip-resistant grip in cold and wet weather

O-ring sealed and argon filled to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme changes in temperature or environmental conditions

Tethered objective lens caps and one-piece ocular rainguard protect the lens surfaces without the fear of losing them when not in use

GlassPak binoculars harness holds the optic close to your body to keep it safe and secure without swinging or hanging when moving or climbing over rough terrain

• This updated 2018 version of the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars get upgraded with a wider field of view and longer eye relief from the previous iteration to make views more spacious and viewing through them easier and more comfortable.
Optically, these binoculars benefit from proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics that maximize light transmission through the light path and improve contrast and color rendition across the entire visual spectrum. The compact roof prisms are dielectric coated. Phase-corrected coatings limit internal interference, light loss, and diffraction while maximizing light transmission through the prism system. These features work together to produce bright, sharp, and clear high-contrast views with accurate color fidelity and crisp resolution. The larger objective lenses boost the binoculars' light-gathering capabilities to draw in the available light and maintain bright images even when conditions are less than ideal, such as in the predawn and late dusk hours or when looking into dense brush or using under heavy cloud cover.
Complementing the optical performance are construction details that allow the Viper HD to withstand the rigors of the trail. The optical tubes are O-ring sealed and argon filled to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging if the weather turns or they take an accidental spill in a stream or puddle. Protecting the optical components is a polycarbonate chassis that is lightweight and durable as well as resistant to the expansion and contraction that metal suffers from and which can lead to fuzzy views over time. Vortex includes a GlassPak binoculars harness case that protects the optic when not in use while keeping them close to your body, preventing swinging and swaying as you move or climb over rough and rocky terrain. Objective lens caps and a one-piece ocular rainguard protect the exterior lens surfaces. To keep the caps and rainguard safe during use, they are tethered to the body and strap, respectively.