I was at the camera store today spending money as I do occasionally and I happened by the binoculars display case. There on the bottom shelf was a brand new Vanguard MT-8210 8×21 monocular. I’ve got a small set of Steiner Predators I keep in my emergency kit at home, but I have been looking at monoculars off and on as a smaller alternative for regular carry. I’ve been looking at Minox, IOR, Vortex, etc…., but I’ve been unable to make up my mind.

The deciding factor was how bright and clear the optics were on a totally overcast day. The reason I’m so surprised at how good they look is the fact I only paid $15.00 for them.

They are 8x power with a 21mm objective and fully coated lenses. It’s also a roof prizm design. They are also rubber armored and come with a nylon carry case that can be worn on a belt.

The best part, I’ve already used them while I was out scouting for wildlife to shoot (with a camera.)

[img width=640 height=480]http://i371.photobucket.com/albums/oo151/wes_tulsa/Misc/DSCF0020.jpg[/img]
Vanguard MT-8120 Monocular next to Surefire E1L