Top 7 Best Hawke Binoculars for Bird Watching in 2023 (2) (1)

Top 7 Best Hawke Binoculars for Bird Watching in 2023

If you’re a bird watcher looking to upgrade your equipment in 2023, you’ll want to check out the top Hawke binoculars on the market. Hawke is a well-respected brand in the optics industry, known for producing high-quality binoculars that provide stunning clarity and precision.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 7 best Hawke binoculars for bird watching, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these binoculars are sure to enhance your bird watching experience and help you get up close and personal with your feathered friends.

Table of Contents

Best Hawke Binoculars for Bird Watching

Hawke Sport Optics Sapphire ED Top Hinge 10×42 Binoculars

Hawke Sport Optics Sapphire ED Top Hinge 10x42 Binoculars

If you’re looking for the ultimate bird watching experience, look no further than the Hawke Sport Optics Sapphire ED Top Hinge 10×42 Binoculars. These binoculars are designed specifically with bird watchers in mind, with an extra low-dispersion (ED) glass that provides crystal clear images and true-to-life color reproduction.

The dielectric coatings increase light reflectivity, ensuring you get a bright, clear image even in low-light conditions. The magnesium alloy body with rubber armor is lightweight yet durable, making it easy to carry and use in the field. With a 65° apparent angle of view and fully multi-coated optics, you won’t miss a single detail.

Pros:

  • Crystal clear images and true-to-life color reproduction thanks to ED glass
  • Dielectric coatings increase light reflectivity for brighter, clearer images
  • Lightweight yet durable magnesium alloy body with rubber armor
  • 65° apparent angle of view and fully multi-coated optics for a complete bird watching experience

Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to some other bird watching binoculars

Specifications:

  • Brand: Hawke Sport Optics
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42 Millimeters
  • Color: Green
  • Material: Rubber Binocular
  • Prism Description: Roof Prism
  • Lens Coating Description: Fully Multi-Coated
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5.3 x 5 x 3 inches
  • Item Weight: 730 Grams
  • Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
  • Focus Type: Center Focus

Verdict: The Hawke Sport Optics Sapphire ED Top Hinge 10×42 Binoculars are the perfect choice for avid bird watchers who demand the best in optical performance. With ED glass and dielectric coatings, you’ll get crystal clear images and true-to-life color reproduction, while the magnesium alloy body with rubber armor is lightweight yet durable. While the price point may be higher than some other bird watching binoculars, the superior optics and construction make it worth the investment.

Hawke Frontier APO Binoculars 10×42 Binocular

Hawke Frontier APO Binoculars 10x42 Binocular

As a bird watching enthusiast, you won’t go wrong with the Hawke Frontier APO Binoculars. The Mg-Al |APO | ED Glass | Die-Electric | BAK4 | Waterproof features make these binoculars comparable to the more expensive Swarovski and Zeiss models. The image quality is stunning, and the APO lenses ensure clear and bright views throughout the range.

Focus is smooth and fast, while the finish is impressive. Although some have criticized the lack of a locking mechanism for the diopter wheel, it’s not a major issue. These binoculars are an excellent choice for both amateur and semi-professional users, offering exceptional value for money.

Pros:

  • High-quality APO lenses for clear and bright images
  • Smooth and fast focus
  • Waterproof design for all-weather use
  • Exceptional value for money

Cons:

  • No locking mechanism for diopter wheel

Specifications:

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
  • Magnification Maximum: 10x
  • Eye Relief: 17mm
  • Exit Pupil: 4.2mm
  • Binocular Prism Description: Roof Prism
  • Lens Coating Description: Fully Multi-Coated
  • Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

Verdict: The Hawke Frontier APO Binoculars are an excellent investment for bird watching enthusiasts who want high-quality optics without breaking the bank. The APO lenses, smooth focus, and waterproof design make them a top choice for both amateur and semi-professional users. While the lack of a locking mechanism for the diopter wheel may bother some, it’s a minor issue that shouldn’t detract from the overall quality of these binoculars.

Hawke Endurance ED 12×50 Binoculars

Hawke Endurance ED 12x50 Binoculars

For a top-tier bird watching experience, the Hawke Endurance ED 12×50 Binoculars are hard to beat. With anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics, these binoculars produce bright, clear, high-contrast images with accurate color rendition and virtually no fringing. The combination of powerful magnification, optical technologies, and oversized objectives provides an immersive observational experience.

Made with a lightweight magnesium alloy chassis, these binoculars are nitrogen-filled, water and fogproof, making them perfect for any outdoor adventure. The Hawke Endurance ED 12×50 Binoculars are the ideal choice for birders, hunters, or anyone who wants to bring distant subjects up close.

Pros:

  • Excellent image quality with accurate color rendition and virtually no fringing
  • Lightweight and durable magnesium alloy chassis
  • Nitrogen-filled and water/fog proof for outdoor use

Cons:

  • Large objective size may be less portable than smaller models
  • Higher magnification may require more stabilization for steady viewing

Specifications:

  • Brand: Hawke Sports Optics
  • Age Range: Adult
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 50 millimeters
  • Magnification Maximum: 12x
  • Material: Glass
  • Binocular Prism Description: Roof Prism
  • Lens Coating Description: Phase Coating
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 6.5 x 5.2 x 2.5 inches
  • Item Weight: 0.79 kilograms
  • Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

Verdict: Overall, the Hawke Endurance ED 12×50 Binoculars are an exceptional choice for bird watching. With top-notch optics and a powerful magnification, these binoculars produce bright and clear high-contrast images. The durable and waterproof design makes them perfect for outdoor use. Although they may be less portable than smaller models, their excellent image quality and immersive observational experience make them worth the investment.

Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 10×32

Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 10x32

As a bird-watching enthusiast, the Hawke Frontier ED X binoculars are a game-changer. With superior optical performance, these binoculars provide crystal-clear images in perfect detail and true colors, making it easy to identify and observe birds from a distance. To prevent color fringing and achieve clear visibility of all details, the lenses of the Nikon binoculars are equipped with dielectric coatings and controlled chromatic aberration.

Not only are these binoculars reliable and durable, but they are also waterproof and fog-proof, making them perfect for use in rugged and harsh conditions. The magnesium alloy chassis is protected with a lightweight, grippy rubber coating, making them comfortable to use for extended periods. The focus knob is smooth and precise, allowing for effortless adjustments.

Pros:

  • Exceptional optical performance
  • Waterproof and fog-proof
  • Lightweight and comfortable to use
  • Smooth and precise focus adjustment

Cons:

  • Expensive compared to other options
  • Only available in one color

Specifications:

  • Brand: Hawke Sport Optics
  • Maximum Magnification: 10x
  • Color: Green
  • Material: Glass
  • Prism Description: Roof Prism
  • Lens Coating Description: Multi-Coated
  • Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
  • Zoom Ratio: 10x

Verdict: The Hawke Frontier ED X binoculars are the perfect choice for bird-watching enthusiasts who demand the best. With outstanding optical performance and rugged durability, these binoculars are designed to withstand even the harshest conditions. Though they may be pricey, the peace of mind that comes with the no-fault guarantee makes them worth the investment.

Hawke Sport Optics Endurance ED 10×50 Binoculars

Hawke Sport Optics Endurance ED 10x50 Binoculars

The Hawke Sport Optics Endurance ED 10×50 Binoculars are a must-have for birdwatchers. With Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass, you can expect crisp and bright images with reduced color fringing. The fully multi-coated lenses provide high resolution and sharp vision, while the twist-up eye cups offer position stops for eye relief.

These binoculars are also waterproof, fog-proof, and durable, making them perfect for outdoor adventures. With just 1.2 turns of the focus knob, you can effortlessly adjust the focus with close focus from 6.6ft/2m. What sets these binoculars apart from competitors is the exceptional engineering and build quality from British brand Hawke.

Pros:

  • Crisp and bright images with reduced color fringing
  • Fully multi-coated lenses for high resolution and sharp vision
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and durable
  • Effortless focusing with close focus from 6.6ft/2m
  • Exceptional engineering and build quality

Cons:

  • Slightly heavier than some competitors

Specifications:

  • Brand: Hawke Sport Optics
  • Power: 10×
  • Objective: 50mm
  • Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC)
  • Field of View: 101m / 304ft
  • Close Focus: 2m / 6.6ft
  • Eye relief: 13mm / 0.5″
  • Height: 143mm / 5.6″
  • Weight: 652g / 23oz

Verdict: The Hawke Sport Optics Endurance ED 10×50 Binoculars are the perfect choice for birdwatchers who demand high-quality optics. With crisp, clear, and bright images, effortless focusing, and exceptional engineering and build quality, these binoculars are worth the investment. The only downside is that they are slightly heavier than some competitors.

Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 10×42

Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 10x42

When it comes to bird watching, the Frontier ED X 10×42 Binoculars from Hawke Sport Optics are an excellent choice. The Extra-Low Dispersion glass and fully multi-coated optics produce incredibly sharp and bright images, allowing you to see every detail with ease. The focus knob has a 1.5 turn and a close focus of just 6.6ft, making it easy to hone in on your target.

The binoculars are also waterproof and fog proof, and have undergone strict quality control inspections to ensure their durability and reliability. Lightweight and compact, they come with a hard carry case, neck strap, lens covers, lens cloth, and harness adaptors for added convenience.

Pros:

  • Extra-Low Dispersion glass and fully multi-coated optics produce sharp and bright images
  • Waterproof and fog proof
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Comes with a hard carry case and accessories for added convenience
  • Hawke offers a lifetime no-fault warranty

Cons:

  • The cost might be a little high for certain users

Specifications: 

  • Brand: Hawke Sport Optics
  • Model no: 38413
  • Power: 10x
  • Objective: 42mm
  • Field of View: 142m/426ft @ 1000m/1000yds
  • Close Focus: 2m/6.6ft
  • Eye relief: 18mm/0.7″
  • Height: 140mm/5″
  • Weight: 692g/24.4oz

Verdict: Overall, the Frontier ED X 10×42 Binoculars from Hawke Sport Optics are an excellent choice for bird watching enthusiasts. Their superior optics, durability, and convenient accessories make them stand out from the competition.

Hawke Nature-Trek 8×42 Binocular

Hawke Nature-Trek 8x42 Binocular

As a birdwatching enthusiast, you’ll love the Hawke Nature-Trek 8×42 Binoculars. These binoculars are designed for maximum clarity with fully multi-coated lenses and a back 4 roof prism design, making them compact and easy to carry on your birding adventures. The polycarbonate body is lightweight yet durable, ensuring lifelong durability.

These binoculars are designed for quick and easy use with effortless focusing and impressive depth of field. You’ll be amazed by their performance and ease of operation, making them a must-have for any bird watching enthusiast. They are Nitrogen Purged to avoid fogging and sealed to be fully waterproof. Twist-up eye cups and smooth diopter adjustment make viewing easy, and they come with protective lens covers and a carry case.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Fully multi-coated lenses for maximum clarity
  • Nitrogen purged for fog-free viewing, fully waterproof for protection against water damage.
  • Effortless focusing and impressive depth of field
  • Protective lens covers and carry case included

Cons:

  • None found

Specifications:

  • Brand: Hawke
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42 Millimeters
  • Magnification Maximum: 8
  • Color: Green
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Model Name: 35102
  • Binocular Prism Description: Roof Prism
  • Lens Coating Description: Fully Multi-Coated
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5.3 x 5.3 x 2 inches
  • Item Weight: 1.47 Pounds

Verdict: The Hawke Nature-Trek 8×42 Binoculars are a must-have for birdwatchers. Their high-quality construction, stunning optics, and ease of use make them an excellent choice for anyone looking to get a closer look at their feathered friends. With their compact design and protective accessories, you can take them with you wherever you go.

Overall Winner

Best Hawke Binoculars for Bird Watching in 2023

TOP PICK: Frontier APO Binoculars 10×42 Binocular 

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Hawke Binoculars

When it comes to bird watching, having a high-quality pair of binoculars can make all the difference in your experience. Hawke is a brand that has gained a reputation for producing binoculars that offer excellent clarity, precision, and durability. To help you choose the right pair of Hawke binoculars for your needs, we’ve put together a comprehensive buyer’s guide.

  • Magnification and Objective Lens Diameter: The first thing to consider when choosing Hawke binoculars is the magnification and objective lens diameter. Magnification is the number of times an object appears closer through the binoculars, while the objective lens diameter determines how much light the binoculars can gather. For bird watching, a magnification of 8 or 10 and an objective lens diameter of 32 mm to 42 mm are ideal.
  • Prism Type: There are two types of prisms used in binoculars – roof prism and Porro prism. Hawke offers both types, but roof prism is typically preferred for bird watching because it is more compact and easier to hold steady.
  • Lens Coating: Hawke binoculars are known for their fully multi-coated lenses, which provide excellent clarity and reduce glare. Some models also come with additional coatings, such as dielectric or phase-corrected coatings, which further enhance the image quality.
  • Field of View: The term “field of view” pertains to the extent of the observable area when looking through a pair of binoculars. To enhance the bird watching experience, it’s advisable to choose binoculars with a wider field of view. A field of view of 300 feet at 1000 yards or more is ideal for spotting and tracking birds easily.
  • Eye Relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye when the binoculars are in focus. For those who wear glasses, a longer eye relief is important to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. Look for a minimum of 15 mm of eye relief.
  • Close Focus Distance: The close focus distance is the shortest distance at which the binoculars can focus. For bird watching, a close focus distance of 6 feet or less is ideal, as it allows you to observe birds up close.
  • Durability: Hawke binoculars are built to last, with features such as waterproofing and nitrogen purging to prevent fogging. Look for models with a durable polycarbonate body and a protective case for added protection.
  • Budget: Finally, consider your budget when choosing Hawke binoculars. While they offer a range of models at different price points, keep in mind that a higher price often indicates better quality and features.
ModelMagnificationObjective Lens DiameterClose Focus DistanceField of ViewEye Relief
Hawke Sport Optics Sapphire ED Top Hinge 10×42 Binoculars10x42mm6.6ft / 2m304ft/101m16mm
Hawke Frontier APO Binoculars 10×42 Binocular10x42mm6.6ft / 2m315ft/105m16mm
Hawke Endurance ED 12×50 Binoculars (36210)12x50mm6.6ft / 2m273ft/91m15mm
Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 10×3210x32mm6.6ft / 2m315ft/105m14mm
Hawke Sport Optics Endurance ED 10×50 Binoculars10x50mm8.2ft / 2.5m315ft/105m19mm
Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 10×4210x42mm6.6ft / 2m341ft/114m16mm
Hawke Nature-Trek 8×42 Binocular8x42mm6.6ft / 2m388ft/129m18mm

FAQ’s About Hawke Binoculars

What is the warranty for Hawke binoculars?

Hawke binoculars come with a limited lifetime warranty (restricted to 10 years in Europe), which covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is valid for the original owner of the binoculars, and is subject to certain terms and conditions.

Are Hawke binoculars suitable for bird watching?

Yes, Hawke binoculars are an excellent choice for bird watching. With a range of models featuring high-quality optics and magnification levels of 8x to 12x, Hawke binoculars can help bird watchers to identify and observe birds with stunning clarity and detail. The compact and lightweight designs of many Hawke models also make them easy to carry on extended birding expeditions.

What is the difference between roof prism and porro prism binoculars?

Roof prism binoculars have a straight barrel design, which makes them more compact and easier to hold. Porro prism binoculars have a wider, offset design, which can provide better depth perception and a wider field of view.

Are Hawke binoculars waterproof?

Yes, many Hawke binocular models are waterproof, which means they can be submerged in water without damage. Some models are also fog-proof, which means they won’t fog up in cold or humid conditions.

What is the difference between fully multi-coated and multi-coated lenses?

Fully multi-coated lenses have multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings, which can provide higher light transmission and sharper images. Multi-coated lenses have fewer layers of coating and may not be as effective in reducing glare.

Are Hawke binoculars suitable for eyeglass wearers?

Yes, many Hawke binocular models have twist-up eyecups, which can be adjusted to accommodate eyeglasses or sunglasses. This feature can provide more comfortable viewing for eyeglass wearers.

What is the magnification range of Hawke binoculars?

Hawke binoculars are available in a range of magnifications, from 8x to 15x. The optimal magnification depends on the intended use and personal preference.

Are Hawke binoculars durable?

Yes, Hawke binoculars are built to withstand tough conditions and are made with durable materials, such as magnesium alloy or polycarbonate. Many models are also shockproof and have rubber armor to protect against impacts.

What is the field of view of Hawke binoculars?

The field of view of Hawke binoculars varies by model, but many have a wide field of view, which can be beneficial for birdwatching and other outdoor activities.

What is the close focus distance of Hawke binoculars?

The close focus distance of Hawke binoculars varies by model, but many have a close focus distance of 2-3 meters, which can provide clear, detailed images of nearby objects.

Are Hawke binoculars good for low-light conditions?

Yes, many Hawke binocular models have large objective lenses and fully multi-coated optics, which can provide bright, clear images in low-light conditions.

Do Hawke binoculars come with accessories?

Yes, Hawke binoculars come with a range of accessories, including carrying cases, lens covers, and straps. Some models also come with cleaning cloths or tripod adapters.

What is the weight of Hawke binoculars?

The weight of Hawke binoculars varies by model, but many are lightweight and easy to carry. Some models may be heavier if they have larger objective lenses or more durable materials.

What is the price range of Hawke binoculars?

The price range of Hawke binoculars varies depending on the model and features, but they are generally considered to be mid-range in terms of price.

Are Hawke binoculars suitable for hunting?

Yes, Hawke binoculars are well-suited for hunting activities, especially those with magnification ranges of 8x to 10x. Their compact designs and rugged constructions make them a great choice for outdoor activities. Hawke also offers specialized hunting binoculars, such as the Endurance ED and Frontier HD X models, which have features tailored specifically to the needs of hunters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hawke binoculars are a top choice for bird watching enthusiasts of all levels, offering exceptional image clarity, durability, and ease of use. With a wide range of models to choose from, Hawke binoculars are sure to provide birders with the optimal viewing experience they need to observe and appreciate birds in all their natural beauty.

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Author

  • Vince S

    Meet Vince, the passionate founder and author of Learn Bird Watching, boasting 30 years of birding experience. With an unwavering mission to empower fellow bird enthusiasts, Vince shares invaluable wisdom and guidance. As a dedicated moderator and contributor to Quora's Bird Watchers' Club, he actively engages with the birding community, where his insightful answers have garnered over 440,000 views and over 2,670 upvotes. Whether you're a budding birder or a seasoned avian aficionado, his wealth of knowledge is at your service.