For 2016, Vortex Optics redesigned its Diamondback line of binoculars with the intent on improving both performance and value. The newly redesigned Diamondback series features eight different models that offer a broad spectrum of magnification, close focus distance and field of view. The lenses in these binoculars are multi coated to improve the overall visual characteristics.

The new and improved models are:

• 12×50, close focus distance: 7.0′, 28.7 ounces, 5.2˚ field of view (271′ @ 1000 yards) – $319
• 10×50, close focus distance: 7.0′, 29.6 ounces, 6.0˚ field of view (315′ @ 1000 yards) – $309
• 10×42, close focus distance: 6.7′, 21.4 ounces, 6.3˚ field of view (330′ @ 1000 yards) – $279
• 8×42, close focus distance: 5.0′, 21.8 ounces, 7.5˚ field of view (393′ @ 1000 yards) – $269
• 10×32, close focus distance: 2.4′, 15.4 ounces, 6.5˚ field of view (340′ @ 1000 yards) – $249
• 8×32, close focus distance: 2.4′, 15.5 ounces, 8.1˚ field of view (426′ @ 1000 yards) – $239
• 10×28, close focus distance: 6.5′, 13.5 ounces, 5.1˚ field of view (273′ @ 1000 yards) – $199
• 8×28, close focus distance: 6.5′, 14.0 ounces, 6.2˚ field of view (332′ @ 1000 yards) – $189

These binoculars are backed by the company’s lifetime warranty. The tubes are argon gas purged and should be fog free. Vortex states the units are waterproof, though no IPX standards were listed. I suspect that these are perhaps better described as weatherproof.

Vortex Optics coats the bodies of these binoculars with a rubber coating for a good grip and protection from impacts and abrasions. The units have a tripod adapter and use a center focus wheel.

Vortex also introduced new scopes this year. These include the 15-60×52 Golden Eagle and three new scopes in the Razor HD LH line.