Bushnell's latest binocular family is built for the hunter, no matter your game. (Petersen's Hunting photo)
February 17, 2022
By Sam Forbes
The Forge Series is Bushnell’s most recent addition to its lineup of field-ready hunting binoculars. The company accepts the reality that hunters are not going to be easy on their optics and have built the Forge Series to stand up to repeated abuse. Now, buying something cheap—some might even say, disposable—because you’re going to get things dusty, dirty, cold, and wet isn’t always the best option. And just because you pick something durable and long-lasting, shouldn’t mean you have to take out a second mortgage. On top of the time-tested reliability known of Bushnell’s optics, your investment is protected by the company’s full lifetime Ironclad Warranty. So, if you’re looking for that perfect in-between, look no further than these new options.
All Forge binos ship with a handful of accessories, so the added value is there: a semi-rigid EVA case, a soft case, a padded neck strap, a binocular harness, and back lens caps. Best yet, for an additional $25 you can purchase the binocular tripod adapter which allows you to attach the glass to a tripod during long glassing sessions or extended stays at the range when sighting in. (The tripod adapter is included with the 15x56 model, and the 10x30 does not include a hard case.)
Our publisher Kevin Steel recently had the chance to carry the 15x56 binoculars in the field while on a deer and aoudad cull in West Texas, here’s what he had to say.
Bushnell Forge Series Specs Exclusive EXO Barrier Protection – Bushnell's newest and best protective lens coating molecularly bonds to the glass, repelling water, oil, dust, debris and preventing scratches. ED Prime Glass – Bushnell's highest quality glass delivers amazing color, resolution, and contrast—even in low-light conditions. IPX7 Waterproof construction – O-ring sealed optics stay dry inside, when immersed in three feet of water for up to 30 minutes. Dielectric Prism Coating – Applied to the prisms, it ensures vivid color reproduction and allows 92% light transmission for bright images. Focus: 12ft/4m Color: Terrain Exit Pupil: 3.7mm Eye Relief: 21mm Eyecups: Twist-up Lead Free Glass: yes Lens Coating: PC-3 Phase Coating Prism Type: Abbe-Koenig Waterproof/Fogproof: Yes Weight 51oz For those looking for something a bit less expensive, or just a bit smaller in size, Bushnell offers both an 8x42 and a 10x42 option. The quality of these smaller sizes matches that of their larger counterparts, the technology and durability is delivered across the platform. Many terrains don’t call for long-range magnification, so know your environment and purchase accordingly.
Last but not least is the super-compact 10x30 binocular. These folding roof prism binoculars offer high power with lightweight convenience. No matter if you’re traveling, hiking, hunting, or bird watching, you’ll find them almost indispensable. These would make a fine addition to anyone’s spring turkey vest.
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