New Optics & Rangefinders for 2022

Covert Binoculars

Quality and affordability are what have best described Covert trail cameras over the years. And now that they are launching a line of binoculars, those same elements are on display even more. Having a sneak peek while at the ATA Show, it was obvious with one touch that these optics are built to deliver the rugged performance and high-quality image clarity you’d expect from the Covert brand. Offered in both 8x42 (pictured) and 10x42 models, they feature a durable aluminum frame with a rubberized waterproof and fog proof housing. The guts of their performance comes from the high-quality ED glass with BAK-4 lens system that delivers a high-contrast image with exceptional color. When you couple that with the enhanced light transmission capabilities that are provided by the Diamond Bright multi-coated lenses, these compact and capable binoculars deliver dawn-to-dusk performance with a price tag virtually any bowhunter can afford. $499 | www.feradyne.com/covert-optics

Bushnell Fusion X

Expanding their footprint into the rangefinding binocular arena, Bushnell launches the new Fusion X going into 2022. Roughly half the price of many in this space, the new Fusion X has a 1-mile range capability that also incorporates their all-new ACTIVSYNCTM display system that is designed to smoothly morph from black to red readouts automatically based on the changing lighting conditions while also offering their quality High-Definition Optical System you have come to expect from Bushnell in a 10x42 package. Other notable features include near/far ranging modes so users can focus on a target while ignoring objects in the foreground and background, as well as must-have bow and rifle ballistics modes to ensure the precise distance, regardless of the angle. $699.99 | www.bushnell.com

Zeiss Victory SF 32

When you need a wider field of view in the heavy whitetail timber, the latest addition to the Zeiss SF family is worth a look. A compact design with the exceptional clarity, definition, and light transmission Zeiss optics are known for, the Victory SF 32 line offers a wider field of view so users can find game faster, plus with SmartFocus technology built in it only takes 1.6 revolutions of the focus wheel to precisely zero in on approaching game. Available in both 8x and 10x designs, they also offer a unique ErgoBalance concept that shifts the center of gravity for a more ergonomic feel. $2,249.99 | www.zeiss.com

GPO Rangeguide

Another compact optic with a wide field of view but also incorporates range finding capabilities is the new 8x32 and 10x32 Rangeguide from German Precision Optics. In addition to GPO’s already popular line, they combine GPObright high-transmission lens coatings with double-HD laminated 32mm objective lenses to deliver exceptional light transmission, sharpness, and resolution, especially when the light is fading. Standing at just 5.4 inches tall, you’d think they are just another compact set of binoculars, but with a push of a button, their optical performance is paired with an ultra-fast Class 1 laser that reliably ranges non-reflective targets like game out to nearly 800 yards. Plus, with true-range angle technology and a scan mode that provides three readings per second, you’ll quickly see how these have a spot in the bowhunting arena. $1,099.99-$1,149.99 | www.gpo-usa.com

Leupold RX-1500 TBR/W

Designed to deliver a precise range regardless of the condition and at a price point that’s easy on the wallet, Leupold delivers the new RX-1500i TBR/W this season. Easily getting the nod from seasoned bowhunters, Leupold’s latest features a bow mode, which generates arrow drop out to 175 yards with a bow-specific setting, and a Trophy Scale feature that allows users to easily measure game in the field while also providing a high light transmission LCD display that delivers exceptionally bright and clear images. With Leupold’s proprietary DNA ranging system, you’ll see lightning-fast reading out to 1,500 yards on reflective targets while delivering it in a lightweight ergonomic package. $299.99 | www.leupold.com

Sig Sauer KILO5K

Just when you think they couldn’t make a rangefinder any more useful and tech-heavy for today’s hunter, Sig Sauer launches the next generation to their KILO Series: the KILO5K. With capabilities made for both bowhunters and gun hunters, it can range reflective targets up to 5,000 yards, semi-reflective targets like trees to 2,500 yards, and game out to 2,000 yards. But making this unit even more impressive is its ability to instantly drop waypoints into the BaseMap App via Bluetooth on ranged targets to help users navigate to bedded game. Powered by Sig’s proprietary LightWave DSP Gen II, it features new target modes like Extended Range, Fog mode and First, Best and Last targets. Applied Ballistics Ultralite is also onboard along with environmental sensors that support BDX External for connecting Kestrel and Garmin devices. $779.99 | www.sigsauer.com

Leica Rangemaster CRF 2400-R

Designed specifically with the bowhunter in mind, Leica’s Rangemaster CRF 2400-R not only grabs targets out to 2,400 yards, but its must-have Equivalent Horizontal Range (EHR) technology compensates for angles out to 1,200 yards. It can even display ranges in decimal figures out to 200 yards making it ideal for 3D shooters wanting precise readings to center-punch the 12-ring. It also features an LED display that automatically adjusts to the lighting conditions so you can find your target better in fading light, and with Leica’s legendary crystal clear glass and 7x magnification, it provides a sharp image with a wide field of view. $550 | www.leicacamerausa.com

Muddy LR Series

Designed for any budget with must-have features that get the job done, Muddy offers the trifecta of rangefinders with the LR series. With range capabilities out to 650, 850 and 1,300 yards, each is equipped with true angle compensation that can measure in both yards and meters, and also feature an integrated scan mode so you can range multiple targets. Each are solidly built with an ABS housing with rubber trim and grip pads that are equipped with 6x magnification with a 26mm lens for a bright and clear image. $159.99-$229.99 | www.gomuddy.com

Hawke Vantage Series

Another budget-friendly optic new for 2022 is Hawke’s Vantage series, and if they are half as good as Hawke’s Frontier APO binocular I’ve been using this past season, they would be a great entry level option or second pair of binos to keep in your truck. Powered by Hawke’s System H2 Optics line, they are offered in 8x42 and 10x42 models, and feature multi-coated lenses for added clarity and are also nitrogen-purged making them dust, fog and waterproof. $159-$169 | www.hawkeoptics.com

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