OpticsTalk by SWFA, Inc. Homepage SWFA     SampleList.com
Forum Home Forum Home > Other Optics > Binoculars
  New Posts New Posts RSS Feed - Trijicon Binoculars
  FAQ FAQ  Forum Search   Events   Register Register  Login Login

Visit the SWFA.com site to check out our current specials.

Trijicon Binoculars

 Post Reply Post Reply Page  12>
Author
Message
Whitefire View Drop Down
Optics Apprentice
Optics Apprentice
Avatar

Joined: December/29/2014
Location: Alabama
Status: Offline
Points: 132
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Whitefire Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Trijicon Binoculars
    Posted: June/09/2015 at 18:12
Perhaps I'm behind the curve. I didn't know till cruising SWFA'S Web site that Trijicon has hung out their binocular shingle.
I have tremendous respect for the name but does anyone have any information? When did this happen? Has it been reviewed etc and just how good is the product?
Wf
May His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Back to Top
Whitefire View Drop Down
Optics Apprentice
Optics Apprentice
Avatar

Joined: December/29/2014
Location: Alabama
Status: Offline
Points: 132
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Whitefire Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/14/2015 at 22:04
Gents, in a moment of weakness I ordered a Trijicon binocular. It is the 10x42 model. I haven't yet made an evaluation but a cursory run thru tells me this is quality glass.

The one weakness I have already encountered is the warranty. Not bad, but in comparison with most other top tear optics the warranty is weak... "Limited lifetime... ", meaning not transferable. This surprises me to the point that I almost returned it without opening, however, the opportunity to learn nudged me, so I opened and will form an opinion shortly.
Wf
May His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Back to Top
cheaptrick View Drop Down
MODERATOR
MODERATOR
Avatar

Joined: September/27/2004
Location: South Carolina
Status: Offline
Points: 20844
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote cheaptrick Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/15/2015 at 02:32
Standing by. Looking forward to your findings.  
If at first you don't secede...try..try again.
Back to Top
Rancid Coolaid View Drop Down
MODERATOR
MODERATOR
Avatar

Joined: January/19/2005
Location: United States
Status: Offline
Points: 9318
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Rancid Coolaid Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/15/2015 at 09:37
I too am interested.
Freedom is something you take.
Respect is something you earn.
Equality is something you whine about not being given.
Back to Top
koshkin View Drop Down
MODERATOR
MODERATOR
Avatar
Dark Lord of Optics

Joined: June/15/2004
Location: United States
Status: Offline
Points: 13182
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote koshkin Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/15/2015 at 16:39
I saw them at SHOT.  They seemed to be pretty decent LOW made binos.  I am a little surprised they did not put a reticle in there.

ILya
Back to Top
RifleDude View Drop Down
MODERATOR
MODERATOR
Avatar
EVIL OPPRESSOR

Joined: October/13/2006
Location: Texas
Status: Offline
Points: 16337
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote RifleDude Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/15/2015 at 17:07
There are a few cosmetic details like the diopter ring, hinge shape, focus knob shape, strap tether ring shape, and overall proportions that looks to me like it could be a variation of the Kowa BD42 with different rubber armor.

Is this just coincidence or...?
Ted


Money can't buy happiness... but it's much more comfortable to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle.
Back to Top
Whitefire View Drop Down
Optics Apprentice
Optics Apprentice
Avatar

Joined: December/29/2014
Location: Alabama
Status: Offline
Points: 132
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Whitefire Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/16/2015 at 15:22
I spent a few hours with the Trijicon and others during the past few days. Let me cover a few bases before I begin;

I am not an optics expert. I have a better knowledge than the common layman but not nearly on par with many of you who read this.  My primary interest is hunting and shooting, however, I glass for hours and shoot for seconds during a hunting trip. This has demanded my attention toward quality glass in an attempt to avoid eye strain and headaches.

I will not use all the descriptive terminology unique to the optics industry, however, I hope communication will be clear.

Also, since my shirt sleeve analysis will be conducted over a period of time I will need several frames so please be patient.

I do not have an array of binoculars to compare, however, the following will be those I reference;

Nikon Monarch       8 x 42
Leupold Yosemite  8 x 35
Swarovski  CL        8 x 35
Swarovski EL         8 x 42

In case you haven't noticed, I'm an 8x sort of guy. The Trijicon is a 10 x 42 and acclimation is a process.

I will cover just the basics in this frame.

The basic pros; The magnesium housing is strong and relatively light. The eye cups are adjustable from being totally recessed to half extend to fully extended.

Focal adjustment is smooth, tension is consistent. Same with the diopter adjustment dial. Quality all the way.

The interpupulary distance is aptly adjusted, with just the appropriate amount of tension. Better a bit too small than a bit too great.

I really like the harness Trijicon included with the bino, secures the unit firmly on my chest readily avaialble.

Nice lens covers for both ocular and objective lenses (tethered).

Basic cons: One item that should always accompany a new binocular is a case. Trijicon, for whatever reason did not include a case with this binocular. Irritating to say the least. They will sell you one for $50 but...

The ergonomics are good, I would not call them exceptional... but good. However, I am keeping in mind that I am accustomed to my  Monarch that sports perfectly round barrels. So do the Swaros.

The Trijicon has ridges on the underside extending most of the length of the barrels, for what reason I'm not sure, not a big deal but if I had my 'druthers the underside would be smooth and rounded.

At first sighting, this unit is clear and bright. These are relative terms; sharper and brighter by a good degree than my old Monarch (which is well above average) on par with my Swaro CL and not quite as bright as the Swaro EL but seems to be as sharp.

That's it for now, a little more testing and practical use will take a few days.

Wf



May His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Back to Top
RifleDude View Drop Down
MODERATOR
MODERATOR
Avatar
EVIL OPPRESSOR

Joined: October/13/2006
Location: Texas
Status: Offline
Points: 16337
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote RifleDude Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/17/2015 at 18:31
Good feedback, WF! Thanks for posting your observations!
Ted


Money can't buy happiness... but it's much more comfortable to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle.
Back to Top
Whitefire View Drop Down
Optics Apprentice
Optics Apprentice
Avatar

Joined: December/29/2014
Location: Alabama
Status: Offline
Points: 132
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Whitefire Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/22/2015 at 11:37
This frame will be short.

I have subdivided my "testing" into two categories, the binocular itself and the magnification, which is 10x. This is because I have utilized 8x optics for many years and this became a factor as I broke in to the 10x world.

I have used and tested the Trijicon enough to know that I like the chassis a great deal. Not as clear as my Swaro EL but very clear and very sharp. So, why not employ the Swaro EL and forget about anything else? More about this in another frame.

I have used and tested the magnification enough to know that I prefer 8x. So I am returning the Trijicon 10x42 and will replace it with a Trijicon  8x42. After becoming acclimated to the 10x I still prefer the lower 8x. The field of view will be a bit more expansive and, my inclination is that most all other dynamics will be somewhat improved as well. 

The degree of stability is another factor. While 10x presents a good picture which can be relatively stable, even freehand, the added 2x does add some wobble that is undetected in the 8x picture in all my other models by comparison.

After a few hours, and many tests, I have made this decision. The name of my game is clarity, which in my opinion, trumps magnification especially for general use.

I look forward to receiving the 8x42 and will continue to share my thoughts  when received.

Wf




May His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Back to Top
bugsNbows View Drop Down
Optics God
Optics God
Avatar
bowsNbugs

Joined: March/10/2008
Location: North Georgia
Status: Offline
Points: 11201
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote bugsNbows Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/23/2015 at 07:06
John Barnsness reviews these binocs in American Hunter mag this month.
If we're not suppose to eat animals...how come they're made of meat?
               Anomymous
Back to Top
Whitefire View Drop Down
Optics Apprentice
Optics Apprentice
Avatar

Joined: December/29/2014
Location: Alabama
Status: Offline
Points: 132
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Whitefire Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/23/2015 at 12:44
Yes he does, actually only the 8x42. Haven't read the whole article yet, however, I'm eager to read his impressions.

Wf
May His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Back to Top
Peddler View Drop Down
Optics God
Optics God
Avatar

Joined: July/04/2012
Location: Oswego,NY
Status: Offline
Points: 13526
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Peddler Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/23/2015 at 17:15
I've got two to one he loves them.

😎
When you are dead, you don't know you are dead.It is difficult only for others.

It is the same when you are stupid.
Back to Top
NDhunter View Drop Down
Optics Journeyman
Optics Journeyman
Avatar

Joined: September/15/2006
Status: Offline
Points: 601
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote NDhunter Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/23/2015 at 21:33

Originally posted by Peddler Peddler wrote:

I've got two to one he loves them.

😎

I've read the article that is in the recent American Hunter mag.  Free for NRA

members, and if you are not a member you should be.  The review is very general

in nature, and of course complimentary to the make. 

Trijicon is not a binocular mfr. so these are a clone of another binocular on the

market today.  Not sure if they are Chinese or Japanese built.

Back to Top
Whitefire View Drop Down
Optics Apprentice
Optics Apprentice
Avatar

Joined: December/29/2014
Location: Alabama
Status: Offline
Points: 132
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Whitefire Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/26/2015 at 13:06
I echo NDhunter's words regarding NRA membership.

Have not received my 8x42 yet, however, did speak with a customer service rep at Trijicon and asked several questions.

I expressed my disappointment that a case was not included (incidentally, I ordered a Voodoo Tactical  case... a super nice case for 15 bucks).

Also, expressed my disappointment in the lifetime warranty, that it was not transferable. He assured me that they were reviewing this language. The product was made available before they had framed a warranty so they hung their existing warranty on the binos just to have a warranty. So this is a work in progress, I was glad to hear they are revisiting this language.

As to who makes them and where... he had to play this card close to the vest. He stated "... at this point, let me just say that it is a top European manufacturer." I was ok with this for the time being. It will come out sooner or later.

After reading the review by Barnsness I was disappointed. As already stated it is very general. Much the same could be said about my 10 year old Monarch. Not saying I can be any more informative, however, I'll give it my best shot. Projected delivery date for the 8x42, Tuesday the June 30th.

Wf

May His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Back to Top
bugsNbows View Drop Down
Optics God
Optics God
Avatar
bowsNbugs

Joined: March/10/2008
Location: North Georgia
Status: Offline
Points: 11201
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote bugsNbows Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/26/2015 at 15:38
FWIW, I heard that Meopta was involved. Don't know if it's true or not. I do know that the Trijicon CS is generally good, and they treat their customers fairly. We'll see how this unfolds.
If we're not suppose to eat animals...how come they're made of meat?
               Anomymous
Back to Top
NDhunter View Drop Down
Optics Journeyman
Optics Journeyman
Avatar

Joined: September/15/2006
Status: Offline
Points: 601
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote NDhunter Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/26/2015 at 18:09

I've just checked out the specs. comparing the Meopta Meopro HD 8x42,

and they do share the same FOV, and an identical weight as the Trijicon HD 8x42.  

The prices are similar, so the Trijicon is probably a clone.

Meopta has a very good wty. from what I have seen, so I am wondering why

buy a Trijicon.

Back to Top
Peddler View Drop Down
Optics God
Optics God
Avatar

Joined: July/04/2012
Location: Oswego,NY
Status: Offline
Points: 13526
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Peddler Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: June/27/2015 at 05:13
Originally posted by NDhunter NDhunter wrote:

Originally posted by Peddler Peddler wrote:

I've got two to one he loves them.

😎

I've read the article that is in the recent American Hunter mag.  Free for NRA

members, and if you are not a member you should be.  The review is very general

in nature, and of course complimentary to the make. 

Trijicon is not a binocular mfr. so these are a clone of another binocular on the

market today.  Not sure if they are Chinese or Japanese built.




Long time member. I didn't read the article because it did not interest me.
When you are dead, you don't know you are dead.It is difficult only for others.

It is the same when you are stupid.
Back to Top
Whitefire View Drop Down
Optics Apprentice
Optics Apprentice
Avatar

Joined: December/29/2014
Location: Alabama
Status: Offline
Points: 132
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Whitefire Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: July/01/2015 at 13:35
Well, I finally received the 8-42 model. As I drew them to my eyes the difference in the two models, 8x42 vs 10x42 was appreciable. Clear, bright, excellent color and to my untrained eyes sharp. I believe that with this price range, in this model less is more. The swap was the right move.

I spent a little over an hour last evening from full light to well past dusk with the Trijicon, Swaro CL and Swaro EL.

In full light all looked very much the same,  with the exception of a little edge clutter with the Trijicon. A little less with the CL and hardly any with the EL.  This does not bother me a great deal. I hunted for years not even aware of the blur around the edges of my Monarch FOV.

As the sun began to set all the light rendering remained close to the same, however, at dusk differences began to emerge. The CL and EL were in the same class, however, the Trijicon began to lag behind in sharpness. With all three I could still distinguish pine needles from about 70 yards away and scrub brush profiles against lighter background, however, fine focus became rather deliberate with the Trijicon while remaining spot on with both Swaros.

As darkness settled in, as luck would have it, a rabbit bounced into the equation about 70 yards ahead of me. The Trijicon focused sharply on the little critter's profile but I could see little detail. Both Swaros rendered some lighter shade differences, gray / dark gray, however, within about six to seven minutes profile was about all I could detect with any of the three. I then looked at my watch, it was 8:55 CST.

This does not conclude my thoughts totally, however, it does tell me that while the Trijicon  does not sport alpha glass, by my own unscientific studies. is very capable. The Swaros were better, but only minutes better than the Trijicon.

Now, why have I used a Nikon Monarch binocular for the past 10 years and not the Swaros? I purchased  the CL a few years ago for good viewing at football games. The EL was purchased as a full sized replacement of the Monarch, however, I began thinking about the treatment the Monarch has endured during the past 10 years; dropped, kicked, banged stepped on and actually run over by a 4 wheeler. All is clear with this bino, however, it has a tuning fork vibration inside. As a result the picture vibrates ever so slightly, so I fear its functional properties may be measured. I do not wish for the EL to suffer similar treatment. In fact I am considering selling the EL, because of lack of use. 

The Trijicon will replace the Monarch, thus far I am totally confident in its capabilities performance.

I am almost sure the Tirjicon is made by Meopta, as was pointed out earlier, the Meopro seems to provide the chassis. Why by the Trijicon? It has an American name on it and the Company, as a whole, supports values I attempt to live by.
Wf


May His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Back to Top
RifleDude View Drop Down
MODERATOR
MODERATOR
Avatar
EVIL OPPRESSOR

Joined: October/13/2006
Location: Texas
Status: Offline
Points: 16337
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote RifleDude Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: July/01/2015 at 14:44
Thanks for posting your observations, Whitefire!

Your 8X42 vs 10X42 comparison mirrors my own observations of "same size objective" 8X vs 10X binoculars overall, regardless of brand/manufacture. I almost always prefer 8X over 10X binos.
Ted


Money can't buy happiness... but it's much more comfortable to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle.
Back to Top
cheaptrick View Drop Down
MODERATOR
MODERATOR
Avatar

Joined: September/27/2004
Location: South Carolina
Status: Offline
Points: 20844
Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote cheaptrick Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: July/01/2015 at 15:29
Good write up, Sir. Thank you.  
If at first you don't secede...try..try again.
Back to Top
 Post Reply Post Reply Page  12>
  Share Topic   

Forum Jump Forum Permissions View Drop Down

Forum Software by Web Wiz Forums® version 12.01
Copyright ©2001-2018 Web Wiz Ltd.

This page was generated in 3.016 seconds.