What's with all the black binoc straps that cross in the back that I see in so many photos? Seems like just about everyone carries them, although they look like they would cut off circulation under the shirt in hot weather ...

I think you talking about the Crooked Horn Outfitter's bino straps. I've been using them for years and will not use anything else. Your neck will thank you for using them!

I'm using it for a couple of years now, it really saves your neck. It is a lot more comfortable than it looks. The men's version of a cross your heart bra

Use 'em and love 'em. Very comfortable.

I tried them and didn't prefer them to the old long binocular strap that I put across my shoulder ala a bandoleer. I can swing the binos up, use them, then drop them, allowing their weight to take them down to just above by belt. I, too gave up carrying them around my neck. Beside tiring, try jumping out of a truck and having them crash into you face!

I use mine both in Africa and hunting at home. They will hold the binoculars against your chest, ready to go without bouncing around, and are especially handy if you have to crawl etc. Get some. You won't regret it.

That is all I use. I have the set from Swarovski. I think they are the same as the crooked horn. I truly love mine.

I too have been using them for years--they are the best bino carry system out there IMO----chris

They're very useful and I have used them for many years. In fact, I started off using the original ones that used tubing instead of straps, until Crooked Horn and the others came out with the strap system. This last Safari I tried going without them and used the long binocular strap method like a lot of the PH's do and found that was comfortable too.

I've tried them but prefer the long strap under the left arm instead. The other setup kept getting caught up in the sling and everything else.

I hate them. As to crawling, if you are really crawling, not on hands & knees, they (bino) are in the way. Also, they feel too restrictive. My vote goes to the "bandolier carry". It keeps the binos on your hip, if you wanna crawl, transfer to your back, there is not a lot of weight on your neck, and they are still easily accessable. I really do not need to feel as if I am strapped in, or wearing a bra....!

I like the small pocket sized binoculars (I've got the Steiners which are inexpensive). Strap is around the neck but hangs loose as binos are in the breast pocket. I let the PH carry the heavy glass. He's judging the trophy, not me.