I just purchased the Vortex Crossfire HD 12x50 binoculars and have been putting them through their paces for a week, and had a few important thoughts to share. Firstly, I was looking for a true all-purpose binocular which was small/light enough to do birding in the day/dusk hours, plus do better than average duty as an astronomy binocular which could be either hand held or tripod mounted. I have many binoculars which excel at either of these tasks, but none really do both exceptionally well - until now.
The price/performance on these Crossfires is simply amazing - I have spent MUCH more on binoculars and not seen the combination of sharp center of focus, awesome light collection in a light, and manageable form factor.
The center field sharpness of the Crossfires is the best I've seen under $200 - and the 12x magnification takes advantage of this for easy marking identification on birds and wildlife. And the 50mm objectives keeps this identification available far later into twilight than any other handheld binocular I own.
These are remarkably light and hand-holdable for 50mm bins - they weigh in at only 29.5 oz, and are extremely well balanced, with a firm, yet tacky rubberized body - with proper technique, these are easily as hand-holdable as my 10x42's. *** ALSO *** these close focus down to 6 feet! Yes, I said SIX feet. 12x combined with 6 ft close focus makes these perhaps the most powerful butterfly/insect binoculars ever made!
Another plus - these are simply the best looking binoculars I've ever seen - something about the smooth curves and materials transitions from front to back make people ask about them all the time.
All materials and mechanicals (focuser, diopter, body) are very high quality with near-perfect resistance to the touch. They are fully multi coated optics, including phase correction coatings, and waterproof/fogproof and O-ring sealed.
For Astronomy, these shine even more, and simply outclass any 7x50 or 10x50 I've ever used. The standard tripod mount works perfectly, and on the stand, the Crossfires can star split better than any binocular I own. They are even better with easy reach star clusters, like M7 and M44, which sparkle with life here and demonstrate the joy of binocular astronomy. And to think these are roof prisms (not normally associated with astronomy capability) is even more astonishing - the optics and build quality are to be commended.
They even throw in a full-blown binocular harness AND a neck strap - incredible value included at no extra cost.
Summary: Low cost, very high quality, good looking, wide array of functionality, terrific, usable optics, best value in binoculars available today. And I haven't even mentioned the Vortex VIP unlimited warranty - how these guys pack so much quality and value into such a low price is kind of crazy - but you'd be crazy NOT to check these out! Highest recommendation.
Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 12x50 Binoculars - HD Optical System, Tripod Adaptable, Rubber Armor, Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockp
4.8 | 2,911 ratings
Price: 179
Last update: 01-08-2025
About this item
12x magnification & 50mm objective lenses, these Crossfire HD binos are optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission.
Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Roof prism design is valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
Adjustable eyecups twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. Center focus wheel adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time. Diopter (located on right eyepiece) adjusts for differences in a user's eyes.
Rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. Binoculars are tripod adaptable allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.
Nitrogen purging and o-ring seals provide water and fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
Backed by our unlimited, unconditional, lifetime, VIP Warranty. A fully transferable promise to repair or replace your item if it becomes damaged/defective. Does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage or cosmetic damage that doesn't hinder performance.
Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Roof prism design is valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
Adjustable eyecups twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. Center focus wheel adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time. Diopter (located on right eyepiece) adjusts for differences in a user's eyes.
Rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. Binoculars are tripod adaptable allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.
Nitrogen purging and o-ring seals provide water and fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
Backed by our unlimited, unconditional, lifetime, VIP Warranty. A fully transferable promise to repair or replace your item if it becomes damaged/defective. Does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage or cosmetic damage that doesn't hinder performance.
Product information
| Product Dimensions | 9.2 x 7.6 x 5 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.84 pounds |
| ASIN | B07V4M7LTY |
| Item model number | CF-4314 |
| Customer Reviews |
4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars
2,877 ratings
4.8 out of 5 stars |
| Best Sellers Rank | #6 in Camera & Photo Products (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo Products) #3 in Binoculars |
| Date First Available | July 11, 2019 |
| Department | unisex-adult |
| Manufacturer | Vortex Optics |
| Language | English |
Top reviews from the United States
DozerCSXStunning price/performance for a truly all-purpose binocular
CloverValleyRanchThese are great
Manuel GonzalezGreat glass
Dan GrigsbyAwesome product
T CGreat pair of glasses
C. J. SouthernSharp, Bright, Comes with all Expected Accessories
ToddZonnaProduct exactly as advertised
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