Vortex Viper HD 8x32 v Zeiss Conquest HD 8x32 (1 Viewer)

Hi guys, just looking for some advice from people that have tested or own either of these bins. I currently own Leica Ultravid BR 8x42 bins, So I'm basically wanting to buy a pair of lighter more compact bins for a back up pair.
I've read loads of reviews on both of these bins and both are rated very highly by all accounts. I've got the cash to buy the Vortex immediately but would have to save a little bit longer for the zeiss. I've seen the vortex for £408 and the Zeiss for £559.
I'm just wondering is the Zeiss really worth the extra money or are the Vortex worth the punt. I think the unlimited lifetime warranty also makes the Vortex quite attractive.
I know people might say try both and see how they feel but my local optics shops only stock the Zeiss and don't seem to have the Vortex model
Cheers for any advice in advance.

Jon

Here is an opinion from Lulubelle (see her thread entitled Disappointed) after test 8x32 Conquest and Vortex:

Did try the Vortex Razors - good view & very light weight. Thought the Conquest were better.

And BTW I agree with her 100% but only by trying them side by side will you be able to choose.

Lee

Cheers Lee.

JonG74 said:

Hi guys, just looking for some advice from people that have tested or own either of these bins. I currently own Leica Ultravid BR 8x42 bins, So I'm basically wanting to buy a pair of lighter more compact bins for a back up pair.

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Hi Jon,

My review of the Viper 8x32 HDs are here:

http://www.birdforum.net/reviews/showproduct.php/product/413/limit/recent

After I wrote the review, I have turned to these bins more often than any of my others. Their compact size, close focus, 3D and excellent color make them a real favorite now. Hope this helps!

This is an excellent review that John posted on Amazon. I think he's the same as our own idaho john.

4.5 out of 5 stars My Zeiss stays home these days..., January 8, 2013
By John "Idaho John" (Payette, Idaho)
http://www.amazon.com/Vortex-8x32mm-Viper-HD-Binoculars/product-reviews/B004I8U1QI

Here's another he posted on this forum:

http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=247743&highlight=Idaho+John

Thanks a lot for your advice, I had been swaying towards the Vortex because of the price difference and warranty. Think this has made my mind up. Cheers.

JonG74 said:

Thanks a lot for your advice, I had been swaying towards the Vortex because of the price difference and warranty. Think this has made my mind up. Cheers.

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Thanks Jon. When you get them, we'd love to hear your thoughts on them. I hope you enjoy them as much and John and I do. :t:

I think these two are very close optically, although it's probably a consensus that the Zeiss are a bit better. But then the question is (and only you can answer this part) whether the "improvements" in the Zeiss are *worth* the extra money. Everyone has to decide how much they are willing to pay for ever diminishing gains as you slide up the price scale.

The fact is the Viper HD is an *excellent* binocular, and will probably satisfy anyone who owns it. My suggestion, since you mention that your local shop stocks the Zeiss but not Vortex, is that you order the Viper and see what you think, and then while you are still in your return window, head to your local shop and do a side-by-side with the Zeiss. Then you can let your eyes decide, and worst-case you are out the return shipping costs for the Vortex. Best case, you are happy with the Vortex and decide that the incremental cost isn't worth it for the Zeiss.

A good suggestion thanks.