The books that show you how to age and field-score bucks are great, but there is a huge difference between studying those close-up still photos at home, and trying to judge a moving animal in the field. I own a Leupold spotting scope, which is a nice piece, but am thinking of buying some higher magnification binoculars. I figured they will be easier on my eyes for extending viewing (just 2 minutes gives me a headache through my spotting scope), and hopefully allow me to better judge the deer. Most of my hunting is from blinds, so I can use a tripod or otherwise mount the binocs and scope, and weight therefore is not a problem (I realize these will be a specialized tool). I will keep using my regular 8x and 10x binocs for glassing, but would bring these binocs out when I saw something notable. Does anyone have thoughts about the higher magnification binoculars out there? I have seen the Swarovski 15x and Leica 12x, and am trying to find the Minox 15x for evaluation (really like the price point, but want to see the quality). Anyone have experience/opinions on the 10-15x Duovids? Thanks

You may need to take another look at your spotting scope or at least compare it to some other models. I have used a Swarovski ST80HD for the past ten or so years. I think that you will find that 15 power is not enough for your needs. I have tried Zeiss 12 and 15 power binoculars in South Texas and they work well but you need more power to find hidden points and to evaluate deer at long distances. I use binoculars to spot the deer and then grab the spotting scope to evaluate. If you are a serious trophy hunter a spotting scope is mandatory in my view.

I have not tried the Duovids, but I have been using the Swaro 15X56 for the last few years when hunting from a blind, and really like them. They definately give you a clear enough picture to accurately age and judge a deer. The only problem with them (as is the same with all high power optics) is steadying them while glassing at long range. My buddy uses a monopod that attaches to the blind window; I just rest mine on the window ledge.

I spend a lot of time behind a spotting scope all year round. Most of it just watching animals on the ranch in the morning and evening from the cabin on the hill.

Here is a hint that will help you. Take a ball cap and tilt it foreward and to the left (If you are using your right eye) enough to cover your left eye. A dark colored cap works best. leave both eyes open. The cap acts as a patch over your left eye and it is very easy to spend time looking through the spotting scope.

Try it.