For the modern hunter, every piece of gear must earn its place in the pack. While binoculars have long been a staple, a high-quality monocular offers a compelling alternative, providing significant optical power in a smaller, more portable package. The ability to quickly glass a distant ridge, identify game, and assess terrain with one hand is a tactical advantage that can make all the difference in the field.
Choosing the right monocular, however, depends on your specific hunting style and environment. Factors like magnification, objective lens size, durability, and low-light performance are critical. This roundup examines ten of the best monoculars available, from budget-friendly all-rounders to premium tactical and compact models, to help you find the perfect optic for your next hunt.
Our Top Monocular Picks for Hunters
- 12×56 High Power Monocular Telescope for Adults
- Bushnell Legend 10×42 Ultra HD Monocular
- Vortex Optics Recce Pro HD 8×32 Monocular
- Zeiss 10×25 T Design Selection Monocular
- Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10×36
- Gosky 12×55 HD Monocular Telescope
- Celestron – Nature 10×25 Monocular
- ZEISS Terra ED Pocket Binoculars 8×25
- Leica Monovid 8 x 20 Monocular
- Steiner 10×26 Safari UltraSharp Monocular
12×56 High Power Monocular Telescope for Adults
This 12×56 monocular is built for hunters who need maximum light gathering and high magnification for long-range observation. The 12x magnification and large 56mm objective lens work in concert to pull in ample light, providing a bright and clear view even during the critical low-light hours of dawn and dusk. The 6.5° wide field of view also makes it easier to track moving game across open terrain.
Advanced optical features ensure a quality viewing experience. It is equipped with a large BAK-4 prism and Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) lenses, which significantly increase light transmission and reduce glare for high-contrast, color-accurate images. As a complete kit, it includes a smartphone adapter for digiscoping, a tripod for stable viewing, and a travel bag, offering significant value for a hunter looking for a versatile, high-power optic.
Bushnell Legend 10×42 Ultra HD Monocular
The Bushnell Legend 10×42 strikes an excellent balance between power, performance, and portability. Its 10x magnification is a versatile choice for most hunting scenarios, from glassing open country to observing woodland game. The key advantage lies in its Ultra HD optics, which feature ED Prime glass to minimize chromatic aberration and deliver stunning clarity and true color fidelity.
Built to handle the rigors of the hunt, this monocular is both waterproof and fog proof, thanks to its O-ring sealed construction. The rugged, rubber-armored exterior not only protects the optics from bumps and drops but also provides a secure, non-slip grip in wet or cold conditions. This combination of superior optics and proven durability makes it a reliable tool you can count on in any weather.
Vortex Optics Recce Pro HD 8×32 Monocular
For the hunter who also operates with a tactical mindset, the Vortex Recce Pro HD is a purpose-built tool. The 8×32 configuration offers a wide field of view and a bright image, while the integrated MRAD reticle adds critical functionality. This reticle allows for range estimation, shot calling, and general reconnaissance, providing data that can be essential for making ethical shots at extended ranges.
The optical system utilizes high-density, extra-low dispersion glass and XR anti-reflective coatings to generate sharp, high-definition images with minimal color fringing. It is designed for one-handed operation with a large, smooth focus wheel and a flared eyecup that blocks extraneous light. Backed by Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional warranty, this is a monocular built for a lifetime of hard use.
Zeiss 10×25 T Design Selection Monocular
Zeiss brings its legendary optical excellence to a remarkably compact form with the 10×25 T Design Selection Monocular. This model is the ultimate in pocket-sized performance, delivering brilliant, high-contrast images thanks to the renowned T anti-reflective coating. This coating is individually tuned to each lens, ensuring maximum light transmission and clarity, even in challenging adverse light conditions.
Weighing very little and taking up minimal space, this monocular is the perfect “always-ready” optic. You can keep it in your pocket for instant use when a quick observation is needed without the bulk of larger optics. Its robust construction is ready for nature excursions, making it an ideal backup glass or a primary optic for the hunter who prioritizes ultralight gear.
Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10×36
The Vortex Solo 10×36 is a straightforward, high-value monocular that gets the fundamentals right. Its 10x magnification and 36mm objective lens provide a solid balance of power and light gathering in a lightweight and easy-to-carry package. The fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and resolution, resulting in the clear, crisp images that hunters require for positive game identification.
Durability is a key feature, with a fully rubber-armored body that provides a secure, non-slip grip and protects the monocular from impacts. It is also nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed, making it both waterproof and fog proof. This reliable performance in all environments, combined with Vortex’s stellar warranty, makes the Solo a trustworthy and accessible option.
Gosky 12×55 HD Monocular Telescope
Gosky’s 12×55 monocular is another strong contender in the high-power category, designed to bring distant subjects into sharp focus. The 12×55 configuration provides a large field of view (352ft/1,000Yds), which is excellent for scanning wide areas. The high magnification makes it well-suited for observing game at long distances where a closer approach is not possible.
The optics are built around an 18mm BAK-4 prism and FMC lens, which work together to deliver clear and sharp pictures with high light transmittance. It is also designed for practicality, featuring an IPX7 waterproof and nitrogen-filled construction to prevent internal fogging. The included smartphone adapter allows hunters to easily capture photos or video of their observations.
Celestron – Nature 10×25 Monocular
Celestron’s Nature 10×25 is the definition of a compact and travel-ready optic. Its minimal weight and small size make it incredibly easy to pack for any hunting trip, serving as an excellent primary optic for the fast-moving hunter or a reliable backup. The 10x magnification provides sharp, detailed views of wildlife, while the 25mm objective lens is sufficient for daytime use.
This monocular is built with quality components, including a BaK-4 prism and multi-coated optics to ensure a bright and clear image. The twist-up eyecup makes it comfortable for use with or without eyeglasses. Furthermore, it is waterproof and fog proof, ensuring it can withstand sudden rain showers or shifts in temperature without compromising performance.
ZEISS Terra ED Pocket Binoculars 8×25
While technically a compact binocular, the ZEISS Terra ED 8×25 deserves a mention for hunters seeking unparalleled optical performance in a tiny package. The use of SCHOTT ED glass with a hydrophobic multi-coating provides 88% light transmission, resulting in exceptional optical clarity and color precision that rivals larger optics. This is a significant advantage in low-light conditions.
The design prioritizes speed and comfort, with a large, smooth focus wheel that allows for rapid acquisition of a sharp image. The housing is compact, lightweight, and robust, with a waterproof casing that stands up to the demands of the outdoors. For the hunter who refuses to compromise on image quality but needs extreme portability, this is a top-tier choice.
Leica Monovid 8 x 20 Monocular
The Leica Monovid represents the pinnacle of luxury and engineering in a monocular. This 8×20 model is incredibly compact, crafted with the superior materials and optical precision for which Leica is famous. It offers brilliant, high-resolution images and comes with a premium leather case, reflecting its high-end status.
A unique feature of the Monovid is its integrated close-up lens, which allows it to focus on objects as close as 9.8 inches, turning it into a powerful magnifying glass for examining tracks, flora, or gear. With nitrogen filling to prevent internal fogging and a water and dirt-repellent AquaDura lens coating, it is built to perform reliably. This is an heirloom-quality optic for the discerning hunter.
Steiner 10×26 Safari UltraSharp Monocular
Steiner’s Safari UltraSharp monocular is designed with the outdoor enthusiast in mind, offering a robust 10×26 configuration that is both powerful and portable. Steiner optics are known for their sharpness and durability, and this model is built to deliver clear views in the demanding environments where hunters operate.
It features a rugged housing that is likely waterproof and fog proof for all-weather use. The 10×26 size provides a great mix of magnification and a compact form factor, making it easy to carry on a belt or in a pocket for immediate access. For hunters who trust the Steiner brand for its military heritage and proven performance, this monocular is a solid and reliable choice.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Monocular for Hunting
Choosing the right monocular for your hunting trips can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve spent a lot of time comparing models in the field, and I want to share what I look for so you can make a smart choice. It’s not just about magnification; it’s about finding a tool that becomes a seamless part of your kit.
First, let’s talk about magnification and objective lens size. You’ll see numbers like 8×42 or 10×50. The first number is the magnification power. For most hunting situations, I find an 8x or 10x monocular to be the sweet spot. It gives you enough reach without making the image too shaky to hold steady. The second number is the diameter of the objective lens in millimeters. A larger lens, like a 42mm or 50mm, gathers more light. This is critical for those early morning and late evening hunts when the light is low. If you’re often in thick timber or hunting in bright conditions, you might prioritize a more compact model with a smaller objective lens for its portability.
Next up is lens quality and coatings. This is where the magic happens. High-quality glass with fully multi-coated lenses makes a world of difference in image brightness, color fidelity, and contrast. I always look for models that specify multi-coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Some premium models even have extra coatings to protect against water, oil, and dust. A phase correction coating on roof prism models is another high-end feature that significantly sharpens the image. Don’t just trust the specs on the box; read reviews to see how people describe the view through the glass.
Durability and weatherproofing are non-negotiable for me. Hunting means facing rain, snow, dust, and the occasional drop. Your monocular should be built to handle it. Look for a nitrogen-purged or argon-purged body that is both waterproof and fog-proof. This ensures that no moisture gets inside the optics, which would ruin your view and the device itself. The housing should be rubber-armored, not just for shock resistance but also for a secure, comfortable grip with cold or wet hands.
Finally, consider the ergonomics and extra features. How does it feel in your hand? Is the focus wheel smooth and easy to operate with gloves on? Is it small and light enough to carry in a pocket without being a burden? Some monoculars come with smartphone adapters, which I find incredibly useful for documenting a potential trophy or scouting location. A built-in rangefinder reticle can be a handy tool for estimating distance, though it’s not a substitute for a dedicated laser rangefinder. By weighing these factors—magnification, lens quality, durability, and usability—you’ll be well on your way to selecting one of the 10 best monocular for hunting in 2025 that fits your specific needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a monocular better than binoculars for hunting?
It’s not about one being universally better; it’s about which tool is better for your specific style. I prefer a monocular for its extreme portability. It slips into my chest pocket, weighs almost nothing, and is my go-to for quick, on-the-move glassing when I don’t want the bulk of binoculars hanging on my neck. However, for long periods of stationary glassing from a ridge, I still find binoculars less straining on my eyes. Many hunters, including myself, often carry both.
What does 8×42 mean on a monocular?
This is the most basic spec and it’s crucial to understand. The “8x” means the monocular magnifies the image to make it appear eight times closer than it would with your naked eye. The “42” refers to the diameter of the objective lens (the lens farthest from your eye) in millimeters. A larger number here generally means a brighter image, especially in low light, but it also means a larger and heavier monocular.
How important is waterproofing for a hunting monocular?
In my experience, it’s absolutely essential. You can’t control the weather, and being caught in a rainstorm shouldn’t ruin your gear or your hunt. Beyond rain, waterproofing (specifically, being O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged) also means the monocular is fog-proof. This prevents internal fogging when you move from a cold environment into a warm tent or vehicle, which is a common occurrence during hunting seasons.
Can I use my phone with a monocular to take pictures?
Yes, and it’s a fantastic capability! Many modern monoculars are compatible with smartphone adapters. This lets you attach your phone’s camera directly to the monocular’s eyepiece. I use this all the time to take distant photos of terrain or animal behavior to review later. It’s great for sharing your scouting finds with hunting partners without having to describe everything. When looking for one of the 10 best monocular for hunting in 2025, checking for smartphone adapter compatibility is a smart move if this feature interests you.
What is the best magnification for hunting?
For all-around hunting, I recommend sticking with 8x or 10x magnification. An 8x monocular gives you a wider field of view and is easier to hold steady. A 10x monocular pulls in distant objects a bit more but can show more hand shake. Higher magnifications like 12x almost always require a tripod for a stable image, which isn’t practical for most stalking or still-hunting situations. Start with 8x or 10x, and you likely won’t be disappointed.