When Bushnell Engage Binoculars were released about 2 years back, Outdoor lovers were wondering whether they would deliver as Bushnell claimed. True to their words, the Bushnell Engage have not disappointed in their performance. The image quality and ergonomics are really good for their price range under $300. In this Bushnell Engage Binocular Review, we will look at why.
The Bushnell Engage binoculars come in different configurations namely; 8×42, 10×42, 10×50 and 12×50 models. They are amazing binoculars for bird watchers, hunters, stargazers, hikers and any outdoorsman or woman.
Bushnell Engage Binocular Review – 8×42, 10×42, 10×50 & 12×50 Models Specs Compared
Features:
- Dielectric prism coating
- Extra-low dispersion (ED) Prime Glass
- P3C prism phase coating
- Ultra-wideband coating
- Environmentally friendly, lead-free glass
- Anti-water, fog, smudge and debris EXO Barrier
- Fully multi-coated optics
Optical Performance
The Bushnell Engage ED Binoculars deliver top-notch performance, both optical and ergonomically, that makes them highly competitive with other binoculars in this price range.
Their field of view is relatively fine to work with. With the 8×42 binoculars having the widest field of view among them at 426′ field of view at 1000 yds and the 12×50 binoculars having the smallest field of view at 280 feet at 1000yrds. But that is to be expected because the higher the magnification, the narrow the field of view gets.
Using Bushnell’s proprietary EXO barrier lens coatings, the Engage Binoculars are able to repel water, oil, debris, and fog to ensure you have obstruction-free viewing.
The lens and prism systems yield an exceptionally clear view; due to their lenses been fully multi-coated ED (extra-low dispersion), they are able to transmit a high percentage of incoming light and minimize chromatic aberration, while the PC-3 phase coated roof prisms help brighten the view and fill it with contrast.
With respect to their eye relief, having long eye relief binoculars is always the best to ensure you have comfortable viewing through them without eye strains. The eye relief for thee binoculars is 19 mm, 18 mm, 15 mm and 15mm respectively in order of increasing magnification.
The 8×42 and 10×42 models have longer eye relief that is ideal for eyeglass wearers who often require a minimum of 16 mm eye relief for strain-free viewing. They can equally manage the 10×50, 12×50 models.
Bushnell Engage 8×42 Review
The Bushnell Engage 8×42 binoculars really stood out among its counterparts as it has got very impressive specifications as can be seen above. With a very wide field of view at 426ft/142m wide 1000yds/1000m.
They also have a good close focus at 6.5 feet and long eye relief at 19 mm which are great features for many bird watchers and hunters looking for widest views possible.
As you would expect, the Bushnell Engage 8×42 are fully multi-coated and prime ED glass elements are used within their lenses. They contain BaK-4 roof prisms which are phase-corrected and Dielectric coated.
That explains why they transmit a substantial amount of lights than other alternatives. These are brighter and lighter than the other alternatives I have come across.
Bushnell Engage 10×42 Review
The Bushnell Engage 10×42 has got the same ergonomics as the Bushnell Engage 8×42, Bushnell Engage 10×50, and the Bushnell Engage 12×50. Made with the same optical materials.
The Bushnell Engage 10×42 binoculars and Bushnell Engage binoculars 10×50 have almost the same specifications. That because the have the same magnification and almost the same objective lens size.
The Engage 10×42 binoculars have a field of view of 340 feet at 1000 yards and a close focus of 8 feet. These binoculars are narrower in the field of view compared to the Bushnell Engage 8×42.
The only difference is the objective lens size. The Bushnell Engage binoculars 10×50 allow more lights in than the Bushnell Engage binoculars 10×42. Therefore, given you a few minutes upper hand over the Bushnell Engage 10×42 binoculars when using them in low light conditions.
Bushnell Engage 12×50 Review
If you are looking for long-distance binoculars that will give you more details of your target, then the Bushnell Engage 12×50 binoculars are a great option to have. They are affordable, durable and delivers good optical performance compared to binoculars with similar specifications and price.
Although they have the narrowest field of view at 280 feet at 1000 yards and an eye relief of 15 mm compared to their counterparts above, they are designed to give you higher magnification and to get more lights in through them.
Because of that, you lose a bit on the field of view. But you get more in detail from your target. These Bushnell Engage 12×50 are designed for hunters and birders who love high powered binoculars for long-range viewing.
You Might Also Want to check out out these Wingspan Optics Birding Binoculars:
Wingspan Optics Skyview Ultra HD 8×42 Binoculars
Wingspan Optics WideView HD 8×42 review
Prices
Considering the quality of these binoculars and the price range they fall under, they are great value for the money. They fall within the price range of $200 to $300. Surprisingly on Amazon, the 8×42 model cost more compared to the other models. Check Out Their Current Prices Here.
Body Construction/ Chassis
The sub-frame of these binoculars is magnesium, making the binoculars strong and sturdy, but not ultra-heavy and are portable. They’re really the perfect size for field use.
On top of the sub-frame, there’s a rubberized coating on the whole thing. This coating helps to keep the binos safe and from sliding around. Each model is also tripod adaptable.
The rubberized coating and strong sub-frame make these binoculars ultra-durable. Drop them on the ground or in a puddle, and you won’t have to worry about anything breaking, getting scratched, or falling apart. Bushnell binoculars all come with a lifetime warranty. In case of any damage or manufacturing fault, you can return them for a repair.
The Engage ED Binoculars are durable and fully weatherproof, allowing you to be confident in their abilities in any environment.
Pros
- Resolving power is exceptional. It’s easy to see minute detail that is hard to make out with most other binoculars in this price range.
- Contrast is fantastic.
- Build quality is excellent. These look like they can take a beating over time.
- The diopter adjustment is excellent.
- Eyecups are metal, comfortable in size and shape, and click smoothly into position.
- These DO have a tripod socket with an easy to remove/replace the threaded cap.
- Fully weatherproof
Con’s:
- Some users said there are some internal reflections when eyes are not positioned properly.
What’s Included in the Package?
The box is heavy-duty and well-designed. Besides the binoculars themselves, you get an outer storage bag and a smaller, protective bag that also serves as a lens-cleaning cloth.
Alongside the protective bags, Bushnell provides lens covers for both front and back lenses. Both of which are easy to take on and off. There is also a branded strap which is durable and comfortable.
Final Verdict
These Bushnell Engage binoculars are an incredible value for the money. With exceptional glass and are fully weatherproof to withstand any harsh weather conditions. You can take them on almost any outdoor adventure. Whether is the hiking, hunting, safari, bird watching or any activity that you deem fit.
All these great features roll into a sleek, rugged pair of binoculars that are ready to go to work with you, rain or shine. So enjoy your time out with them.