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Leupold BX-1 Mckenzie HD Binoculars
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Leupold BX-1 Mckenzie HD Binoculars

Leupold Optics

$269.10
(2 reviews) Write a Review
SKU:
030317029425-1
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  • 5
    Best budget binos for hunting, period

    Posted by B. Thompson on Mar 10, 2025

    After five hunting seasons with my trusty McKenzies, I can confidently say these are the best hunting binos under $300, hands down! The HD glass makes a world of difference - everything is brighter, sharper, and has better contrast than non-HD options in this price range. These things are absolute workhorses. They've been dropped on rocks, covered in dust, soaked in downpours, and frozen in snow - still work perfectly! The focus wheel has maintained its smooth action despite all the abuse. The low light performance is what really sets these apart from other budget binos. That extra 10-15 minutes of effective glassing at dawn and dusk has directly led to spotting several bucks I would have missed otherwise. The 10x42 configuration is perfect for western hunting too - enough power without being too shaky. Are there better binoculars out there? Sure, if you want to spend 3-4 times as much. But for hunters on a budget who still want quality glass, these are impossible to beat. They've helped me fill tags for five straight seasons - can't ask for more than that!

  • 5
    Incredible performance for western hunting!

    Posted by ElkSeeker033 on Mar 10, 2025

    Just got back from an elk hunt in Colorado where my McKenzie HDs absolutely crushed it! I was honestly nervous about going with a more "budget" option for a western hunt, but these things performed way beyond expectations. The HD glass makes a massive difference - I was picking out bedded elk at 600+ yards that my buddy with cheaper binos couldn't see at all. The edge-to-edge clarity is impressive too - very little distortion around the edges of the view. What really impressed me was the brightness. We were glassing dark timber at first and last light, and these things pulled details out of the shadows that I didn't expect. The focus adjustment is buttery smooth and precise, which is crucial when trying to determine if that "blob" is a bedded elk or just a stump. They're not too heavy either - wore them around my neck all day for 7 days straight with no issues. Build quality feels bomb-proof - they got banged around plenty and still work perfectly. For western hunting on a budget, these are an absolute no-brainer. No, they're not Swaros, but they're easily 80% of the performance at 25% of the price. Couldn't be happier!

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Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD Binoculars deliver exceptional optical performance in a compact, lightweight package. These premium binoculars feature Leupold's Advanced Optical System with HD lens elements, proprietary lens coatings, and premium materials for outstanding clarity and light transmission. Designed for dedicated hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature observers, the BX-1 McKenzie HD offers remarkable detail and color fidelity even in challenging low-light conditions.

Product Highlights:

Specifications
Manufacturer Leupold
Model BX-1 McKenzie HD
Magnification 8x, 10x, 12x options
Objective Lens Diameter 42mm
Field of View 368-315 ft @ 1000 yds (depending on magnification)
Eye Relief 15-16mm (depending on magnification)
Close Focus Distance 10 ft
Weight 23.5 oz
Waterproof 100% Waterproof and Fogproof
Housing Material Armor-Coated Aluminum
Prism Type Roof Prism with Phase Coating
UPC 030317018245
Item Number 173788

Pros and Cons:

Pros

  • Crystal Clear Optics: HD lens elements provide exceptional image quality and brightness.
  • Lightweight Design: Compact form factor at only 23.5 oz for all-day comfort.
  • All-Weather Performance: 100% waterproof and fogproof for reliable use in any conditions.
  • Twilight Performance: Advanced light management system for superior dawn and dusk viewing.
  • Leupold Warranty: Backed by Leupold's legendary lifetime guarantee.

Cons

  • Eye Relief: Slightly shorter eye relief than premium models.
  • Price Point: Higher investment compared to entry-level binoculars.
  • Included Accessories: Basic neck strap could be improved for extended use.
  • Lens Caps: Tethered lens caps can be awkward in field use.

About Leupold:

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is an American, family-owned, fifth-generation company that has been designing, machining, and assembling precision optical instruments for over 100 years. Founded in 1907, Leupold has built its reputation on producing durable, high-performance optics that can withstand the most demanding conditions. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Leupold maintains a commitment to American manufacturing with products that are designed, machined, and assembled in the USA. The company's dedication to quality is reflected in their rigorous testing procedures and legendary lifetime guarantee. Leupold optics are trusted by hunters, shooters, military personnel, and law enforcement professionals worldwide for their exceptional clarity, reliability, and precision. The company continues to innovate with cutting-edge technology while maintaining the craftsmanship and attention to detail that has defined the Leupold brand for generations.

Key Features:

The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD Binoculars offer premium features that set them apart in the mid-range optics market:

Advanced Optical System HD Lens Elements
Superior resolution and color fidelity with edge-to-edge clarity
Construction Armor-Coated Aluminum Body
Lightweight yet durable design built to withstand field conditions
Twilight Management System Enhanced Low-Light Performance
Proprietary coatings for excellent light transmission during dawn and dusk
Weather Protection 100% Waterproof and Fogproof
Nitrogen purged and sealed for reliable all-weather performance

Applications & Use Cases:

  • Hunting: Perfect for spotting game at moderate distances in varied terrain and lighting conditions.
  • Birding & Wildlife Observation: Ideal optics for detailed bird identification and wildlife viewing.
  • Sporting Events: Excellent for enjoying sports from a distance with clear, sharp views.
  • Outdoor Exploration: Compact and durable design perfect for hiking, camping, and backcountry adventures.
  • Travel: Lightweight form factor makes these binoculars an ideal travel companion for nature exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What magnification options are available for the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD Binoculars?

A: The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD Binoculars are available in three magnification options: 8x42, 10x42, and 12x42. The 8x42 provides the widest field of view and is ideal for moving targets, the 10x42 offers a perfect balance of magnification and stability, and the 12x42 delivers maximum detail for longer distance viewing.

Q: Are these binoculars waterproof?

A: Yes, the BX-1 McKenzie HD Binoculars are 100% waterproof and fogproof. They're nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from entering the optical system, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions.

Q: What is the eye relief and is it suitable for eyeglass wearers?

A: The BX-1 McKenzie HD offers eye relief ranging from 15-16mm depending on the magnification model. While this is adequate for many eyeglass wearers, those requiring maximum eye relief may want to consider the 8x42 model which offers the most generous eye relief in the series.

Q: What is the field of view at 1000 yards?

A: The field of view ranges from 368 feet (for 8x42 model) to 315 feet (for 12x42 model) at 1000 yards. This provides an excellent balance between wide-area scanning and detailed observation.

Q: What is the Twilight Management System?

A: Leupold's Twilight Management System is a proprietary combination of lens coatings and optical design that optimizes light transmission, especially in low-light conditions. It reduces glare, enhances contrast, and provides additional minutes of usable light during dawn and dusk when game animals are most active.

Q: How much do the binoculars weigh?

A: The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie HD Binoculars weigh approximately 23.5 ounces (666 grams). This lightweight design makes them comfortable for all-day use while still maintaining the durability Leupold is known for.

Q: What is the close focus distance?

A: The close focus distance is 10 feet, allowing you to observe nearby subjects with excellent detail while maintaining the versatility for distance viewing.

Q: What warranty does Leupold offer on these binoculars?

A: The BX-1 McKenzie HD Binoculars are covered by Leupold's legendary Full Lifetime Guarantee. This transferable warranty ensures that Leupold will repair or replace the product if it proves to be defective in materials or workmanship, with no time limit and without requiring a warranty card or proof of purchase.

PRODUCT TYPE:
Ammunition