Description
Unlock a new dimension of outdoor viewing with the Vortex Raptor 8.5x32 binoculars – where premium performance meets incredible affordability. These lightweight porro prism binoculars deliver stunning optical clarity and a massive 390-foot field of view that brings distant subjects into sharp focus, whether you're tracking game in the early morning light or identifying birds from afar. At just 17.3 ounces, these fully waterproof and fog-proof binoculars won't weigh you down on extended adventures, while the rugged rubber armor ensures they can handle whatever nature throws your way.
Engineered for versatility, the Raptor 8.5x32 features fully multi-coated lenses and BAK-4 prisms that maximize light transmission for bright, crisp images even in challenging low-light conditions. The wide interpupillary distance range (50-70mm) ensures these binoculars comfortably fit faces of all sizes – making them perfect for family adventures where optics may be shared between adults and youth. Don't let the sub-$100 price tag fool you – these binoculars deliver performance that rivals models costing significantly more.
Who Is This For?
- OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS & NATURE LOVERS will appreciate the wide field of view and bright optics that make wildlife observation and birdwatching more immersive and enjoyable.
- BUDGET-CONSCIOUS HUNTERS gain access to Vortex's legendary quality and warranty without breaking the bank – perfect for deer stands, turkey blinds, or scouting missions.
- FAMILIES & BEGINNING BIRDERS benefit from the lightweight design, intuitive center focus, and wide IPD range that accommodates both adults and youth.
- EVENT GOERS & SPECTATORS can enjoy sporting events, concerts, and performances with enhanced clarity and detail from any distance.
- PROPERTY OWNERS & LAND MANAGERS who need reliable optics for occasional wildlife surveys or property inspections without investing in premium glass.
Key Features & Benefits
- WIDE-ANGLE DESIGN - Experience an impressive 390-foot field of view at 1000 yards that helps you locate and track moving subjects quickly and efficiently, giving you a significant advantage when scanning for wildlife or birds in dense environments.
- FULLY MULTI-COATED OPTICS - Enjoy superior light transmission and reduced glare with premium lens coatings that deliver bright, high-contrast images with excellent color fidelity, making identification of subtle details possible even in challenging lighting conditions.
- PORRO PRISM CONSTRUCTION - Benefit from the inherently better depth perception and wider field of view that porro prism designs offer over roof prism binoculars at similar price points, resulting in a more immersive and three-dimensional viewing experience.
- WATERPROOF & FOGPROOF - Venture confidently into any environment with O-ring sealed, nitrogen-purged optics that prevent internal fogging and keep moisture out, ensuring your view remains crystal clear regardless of weather conditions or temperature changes.
- RUBBER ARMORED BODY - Maintain a secure grip with the durable, non-slip rubber armor that also provides protection against impacts and abrasions during field use, extending the life of your investment.
- TWIST-UP EYECUPS - Customize your viewing experience with adjustable eyecups that accommodate eyeglass wearers and non-eyeglass wearers alike, providing comfortable viewing for extended periods.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN - Carry comfortably all day with a binocular that weighs just 17.3 ounces, reducing fatigue during extended outings without sacrificing optical performance or durability.
- VIP WARRANTY - Invest with confidence knowing your purchase is protected by Vortex's legendary VIP warranty that covers your binoculars for life, regardless of how damage occurs - a truly transferable, no-questions-asked guarantee.
Competitive Comparison
| Feature | Vortex Raptor 8.5x32 | Bushnell Falcon 7x35 | Tasco Essentials 7x35 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | ~$30.00 | ~$30.00 |
| Magnification | 8.5x | 7x | 7x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm | 35mm | 35mm |
| Field of View | 390 ft/1000 yds | 420 ft/1000 yds | 420 ft/1000 yds |
| Prism Type | Porro (BAK-4) | Porro | Porro |
| Lens Coating | Fully Multi-Coated | Coated | Coated |
| Waterproof | Yes | No | No |
| Fogproof | Yes | No | No |
| Weight | 17.3 oz | 21 oz | 21 oz |
| Warranty | Lifetime VIP | Limited | Limited |
Where This Product Excels
The Vortex Raptor 8.5x32 binoculars truly shine in versatile outdoor conditions where users need reliable performance without breaking the bank. These binoculars are particularly excellent for dawn and dusk wildlife observation when their fully multi-coated lenses maximize available light.
They're ideal for extended hiking and backpacking trips where every ounce matters, yet optical performance can't be compromised. Families and groups benefit from their adaptable IPD range, making them perfect for shared use between adults and youth. Trusted by outdoor educators and budget-conscious hunters alike, these binoculars represent the perfect entry point into quality optics backed by Vortex's industry-leading warranty.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 8.5x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32mm |
| Field of View @ 1000 Yards | 390 feet |
| Eye Relief | 14mm |
| Exit Pupil | 3.76mm |
| Close Focus Distance | 15 feet |
| Interpupillary Distance | 50-70mm |
| Dimensions | 4.5" x 5.7" |
| Weight | 17.3 ounces |
| Prism System | Porro |
| Glass | BAK-4 |
| Optics Coatings | Fully Multi-Coated |
| Waterproof/Fogproof | Yes/Yes |
| Twilight Factor | 16.5 |
| Warranty | Vortex VIP Warranty |
What's in the Box
- Vortex Raptor 8.5x32 Binoculars
- Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
- Tethered Objective Lens Covers
- Comfort Neck Strap
- Soft Carry Case
Frequently Asked Questions
How do these compare to roof prism binoculars in the same price range? The Raptor's porro prism design inherently delivers better depth perception and light transmission than comparably priced roof prism models. While slightly bulkier than roof prisms, you gain superior optical performance and a wider field of view for the money.
Are these binoculars suitable for eyeglass wearers? Yes, with 14mm of eye relief and twist-up eyecups, the Raptor 8.5x32 accommodates eyeglass wearers, though those needing extended eye relief (>15mm) might prefer models specifically designed for eyeglass use.
How do I adjust these binoculars to fit my face? Simply open the binoculars to their widest setting, then gradually bring them closer together until you see a single circular image without floating shapes or edge distortion. The wide 50-70mm IPD range accommodates virtually any face size.
Can these binoculars be mounted on a tripod? No, the Vortex Raptor 8.5x32 is not tripod adaptable. For tripod functionality, consider stepping up to the Vortex Diamondback or Viper series.
How do these perform in low light conditions? While not specialized low-light binoculars, the Raptor's fully multi-coated lenses and quality BAK-4 prisms provide very good light transmission for dawn and dusk viewing, especially considering their price point.
Explore More Vortex Optics
Looking for the perfect binoculars for your specific needs? The Vortex Raptor 8.5x32 is an excellent entry point, but Vortex offers many options to suit every preference and budget. For a more compact option, try the Vortex Vanquish 8x26, or if you need enhanced low-light performance, consider upgrading to the Vortex Viper HD 8x42.
For serious wildlife enthusiasts and hunters, the premium Vortex Razor HD series offers uncompromising optical clarity. Browse our full collection of Vortex binoculars to discover precision-engineered optics built for reliability and crystal-clear viewing in any environment. Experience the Vortex difference today with their legendary VIP warranty that protects your investment for life.
Our Guarantees
FREE Fast Shipping Over $99
Enjoy complimentary expedited shipping on all orders over $99.
Secure Payments
Shop with confidence using our encrypted payment processing.
High Quality or Money Back
Not satisfied with your purchase? We'll refund your money, no questions asked.
Top-Notch Support
Our expert team is available to answer all your questions and provide assistance.
What Our Customers Say
Optics Knowledge Center
Understanding Rifle Scope Basics
Magnification
Magnification refers to how much larger an object appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. Fixed power scopes have one magnification setting, while variable power scopes offer a range (e.g., 3-9x).
Objective Lens
The objective lens is the front lens that gathers light. Larger objective lenses (measured in mm) gather more light, providing brighter images in low-light conditions but add weight and require higher mounting.
Reticle
The reticle (crosshair) is the aiming point inside the scope. Modern scopes offer various reticle designs, from simple duplex crosshairs to complex ballistic reticles with holdover points for different distances.
Adjustments
Rifle scopes have turrets for windage (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) adjustments. These are measured in MOA (minutes of angle) or MRAD (milliradians) and allow precise aiming adjustments.
Proper Scope Mounting Guide
Select the Right Rings & Base
Choose rings that match your scope's tube diameter (typically 1", 30mm, or 34mm). Select a base compatible with your rifle's receiver. For heavy-recoiling rifles, opt for stronger mounts.
Install the Base
Clean the receiver and base thoroughly. Apply a small amount of blue Loctite to the screws. Attach the base to the receiver and torque the screws to manufacturer specifications.
Attach the Rings
Attach the bottom halves of the rings to the base. Place the scope in the rings and loosely attach the top halves. Don't fully tighten yet.
Set Eye Relief & Level
Position the scope for proper eye relief (3-4 inches) in your normal shooting position. Ensure the reticle is level using a scope leveling tool. Once positioned correctly, tighten the rings evenly in a cross-pattern.
Scope Zeroing Tips
Start Close
Begin zeroing at a shorter distance (25-50 yards) to ensure you're on paper before moving to your desired zero distance (typically 100 yards).
Use a Stable Rest
Always zero your rifle from a stable shooting position using a bench rest, sandbags, or a shooting rest to eliminate as much human error as possible.
Fire Groups
Fire 3-shot groups before making adjustments. This provides a more accurate representation of where your rifle is shooting than single shots.
Make Deliberate Adjustments
Know your scope's adjustment values (typically 1/4 MOA per click). If your group is 2 inches low at 100 yards, you'll need to adjust up 8 clicks (for a 1/4 MOA scope).
Confirm Your Zero
After making adjustments, fire another group to confirm your zero. Repeat the process until your point of impact matches your point of aim.
Document Your Settings
Once zeroed, record your settings including distance, ammunition used, and environmental conditions for future reference.
Optics Maintenance & Care
Cleaning Lenses
- Start by blowing or brushing away loose particles
- Use a lens pen or microfiber cloth for fingerprints
- For stubborn dirt, use lens cleaning solution (never household cleaners)
- Clean with gentle circular motions from center outward
Protecting Your Optics
- Always use lens caps when not in use
- Store in a dry place with silica gel packets
- Avoid extreme temperature changes
- Use a quality scope cover in harsh conditions
Regular Maintenance
- Check and tighten mount screws periodically
- Inspect O-rings and seals for damage
- Verify zero after rough handling
- Clean the exterior with a damp cloth
What to Avoid
- Never use fingers to touch lenses
- Avoid paper products (tissues, paper towels) on lenses
- Don't use acetone, alcohol, or household cleaners
- Never disassemble your scope (voids warranty)