Vortex Solo 10x36 mm Monocular, Black

This is a superb piece of kit. My old monocular of 30+ years, having given up the ghost, I was looking for a replacement. This Vortex 10 x 36 is, in my (experienced but not expert) opinion, about as good as it gets. I have seen no sign of chromatic abberation (fringeing) and the viewing field is sharply focused practically right across. (On cheaper models it is often only the centre of the viewing picture that stays in focus)It is not very heavy and is comparitively small, fitting snugly in the hand thanks to the rubber armour. It is actually a very solidly put together optic and although I haven't dropped it yet (!) it looks and feels like it could easily survive occasional rough handling.Unlike others here, I had no problems with the focusing ring being stiff. Perhaps that problem has been fixed?In use, the Vortex offers up a bright, clear image. 10x magnification is about all you would effectively need, since anything more powerful would be almost impossible to use because of the natural movement you encounter with one-handed operation on a narrow field of view. What's critical is the diameter of the objective lens. Most monoculars have objective lenses of around 25mm. But the bigger this number, the more light gets in and the brighter and clearer the image you will see.Of course, the bigger the lens, the bigger the device, so a balance has to be struck. And, for me, Vortex have got it bang on with a 36 mm lens in a compact, rugged and, it has to be said, quite stylish looking device with superb optical performance.If I have to be picky, it's the case it comes with. This is open at the sides which can let dirt in. Also the belt loop is fixed with a press stud. This came undone on my first outing. However a bit of swift needlework has now permanently closed the loop, so problem solved. Lens caps would also be a real advantage. But the sheer optical quality, manufacturing excellence and performance in the field, to say nothing of the lifetime guarantee, are more than enough for me to give 5 stars.If you are looking for a powerful monocular with robust performance that could easily last you a lifetime, I recommend this without hesitation.

I've had two other monoculars in the past, I have a terrible habit of loosing them. The earliest one I had was less powerful but I forget the make/model. My last one was a "visionary" which had a very clever close range function for looking at insects and flora etc, it had the same stats for distance 10x but I think the field of vision was smaller than this. With this one the field of vision feels a lot larger even though I believe it's only 1 more than the visionary it somehow feels a lot bigger,brighter and crisper image. The monoculars structure is very satisfying because it feels very durable and textured, feeling like a sturdy piece of kit but is also very light. The pouch you get with it isn't the neoprene sock thing that you see in some of the you tube "unboxing" it is however a soft Velcro pouch like you'd normal get for a camera etc. A twist out eye relief which I find very useful because otherwise all I could see would be my own eyelashes on the lense. I recommend this monocular.

A very good scope. Solidly made with a good field, crisp to the edge and no decernable shading. It comes with a belt clip which, personally, was extra bulk I didn't want but it's easily removed and leaves a solid mounting point for fixing if ever desirable. The focus ring is stiff but that's not a bad thing - gives confidence that the seals are tight, stays in place on the set focus and is adjustable with one hand with a strong grip and after a bit of use. Two hands, no problem - like you would adjust a telescope anyway. The case is basic and practical. A bit cheap if truth told but I would rather the value went in the scope and, overall, a solid and trustworthy piece of kit.

Would have been 5 stars but the pouch it arrived in is pretty useless, it will keep the lenses from being scratched but you cannot put it on your belt so have to carry around. the power for quite a small item is very good and the focusing ring easy to use, I wear glasses but I find it easier to put my glasses on my head and use eye cups normally. I have some 10 x 50 binoculars and there is not much difference between the two

This is a lovely piece of kit - nice and light in the pocket/backpack and great visual clarity. Comes with a carrying case and lanyard for those who want to keep it more to hand :)It arrived (later than expected) wrapped really securely, it was certainly well protected for transit. The unit itself was good value - though I thought the P+P charges were a bit steep.I'm very pleased with the product itself and would certainly recommend it.

The Vortex Solo 10 x 25 .The downside of this device is the unacceptable rotational stiffness of the “focus wheel” , almost certainly caused by the choice of seal used to prevent gas leakage. This stiffness together with a “spongy” feel (seal drag ?) to the wheel makes focusing an unpleasant experience.Alining the eye with the optical axis is somewhat critical as move the eye away from this axis & the image quickly disappears .The elasticated soft case while giving protection is awkward to use & does not come with a belt loop.Nicely weighted & with an oval cross section to the body the Vortex Solo is a pleasure to hold & once focused the image is very sharp.In conclusion I would suggest that unless you intend to use a monocular standing up to your arse in water at minus 10 degrees with high humidity ,avoid gas filled optics & their “O” ring seals.

The product is well made and provides a good stable image. I would prefer lens caps, but the pouch is well made, although I don't use it.I recommend it as a product, however you use it.