Vortex Razor UHD 8x42

About the series

Replacing the excellent Razor HD at the very top of Vortex’s impressive binocular lineup is the new Vortex Razor UHD series. Made in Japan, they are specifically designed by Vortex Optics to “take the best-of-the-best to the next level”. There's no doubt that these are ultra-high-end optics with highlights that include the use of phase-corrected Abbe-Koenig roof prisms, an APO lens system, multiple anti-reflection coatings on all lens surfaces as well as super tough, scratch and oil resistant coatings on exterior lens surfaces.

About the model

As well as the superior image quality, a major highlight on this 8x42 version of the Vortex Razor UHD binocular is the incredibly wide field of view you are presented with when looking through them. At 128m wide at a distance of 1000m, it places them up there with the very best. This has many advantages but is especially important at closer ranges where a wide view makes it much easier to quickly locate and then follow small, fast-moving objects like birds.

On top of just birding, these 8x42 binoculars will perform very well in a wide range of other situations, uses and light conditions, indeed this model makes an ideal general use binocular for a number of reasons. Firstly, combining 42mm lenses with a moderate 8x magnification generates a good-sized 5.25mm exit pupil, which in combination with the excellent quality optics indicates that these will look to produce a bright image, even in fairly low light conditions and thus extends their use until just after sunset, or just before daybreak.

Likewise, the wide view, combined with this good low light ability makes them a great choice for birders, hunters or just general wildlife lovers who often operate in thickly wooded areas where the available light is not always optimal and viewing distances tend to be shorter. 

Whilst the extra elements in the APO lenses as well as the Abbe-Koenig prisms help ensure the highest quality image as possible is produced, the downside is that they also play a major part in the increased weight and size of this instrument when compared to your average 8x42 roof prism binocular. Therefore if you specifically require a compact and lightweight 42mm binocular, you may wish to sacrifice a little in terms of image quality and rather opt for the Vortex Razor HD series instead.

The 8x42 Vortex Razor UHD has 16.7 mm of eye-relief. This combined with the excellent multi-position eye-cups makes them suitable for eyeglass wearers.

The minimum close focusing distance of only 1.36m is seriously impressive and is better than the majority of other full-sized binoculars on the market. This makes this instrument an excellent choice should you also want to observe things like butterflies or even birds on a feed from extremely close distances.