Binoculars are useful in countless ways, and for those who need a pair that is a step or two up from the standard entry-level pair, the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature binoculars are arguably two of the best out there. Let’s take a deeper look at both.
Vortex Razor HD vs Burris Optics Signature Binoculars
The Burris Optics Signature line is a step up from their more basic HD line and offers enhanced performance and better specifications, for a modest uptick in cost. The Vortex Razor HD line is their premium product line and offers the best of everything they have, in a binocular format. If you are looking for solid binocular models that deliver professional-grade performance, these are two ideal candidates.
Performance
Prism Type
Luckily, you don’t have to worry about comparing two different prism types, because both the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature binoculars utilize a roof prism for their imaging. This means they’re able to provide incredibly clear and bright images for a relatively affordable price.
Magnification
Another category you won’t need to worry about comparing these two is their magnification capabilities. Both models have a maximum magnification of 12x.
Objective Lens Diameter
While you need big glass to catch enough light to get bright, clear images of very distant objects, that glass comes with weight, size, and price. Both of these binoculars find a reasonable middle ground and both have 50 mm objective lenses.
Angle of view
One of the biggest differences between the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature binoculars is the angle of view. The angle of view is a crucial point of comparison for those that will be using their binoculars to see at considerable distances because while the angle of view won’t matter much at 50 yards, it can be a significant distance at 1000 yards.
The angle of view for the Vortex Razor HD is an impressive 5.4° (Actual). The angle of view for the Burris Signature, however, is a slightly less impressive 4.8° (Actual). This is only a difference of 0.6°, but it will mean a much bigger difference at long distances.
Field of View
The differences in the field of view between the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature binoculars are considerable. The Razor gives you a massive field of view of 285' @ 1000 yd (94.62 m @ 1000 m). The Burris Signature, however, has a field of view more than 30’ more narrow, with 251' @ 1000 yd (83.3 m @ 1000 m).
Minimum Focus Distance
The minimum focus distance doesn’t matter to a large portion of people who buy binoculars since they use them to see stationary objects at great distances. To others, however, being able to view nearby objects, or potentially track a moving object to closer distances is crucial.
The Vortex Razor allows you to focus on an object just 10' (3 m) away. The Burris Signature will require at least 13.1' (4 m) to be able to focus clearly on a subject.
Exit Pupil Diameter
In many comparisons, the exit pupil diameter is a crucial metric. This is the measurement of the diameter of the image that your pupils are given by the optics system. A larger exit pupil diameter means a clearer, larger image.
Luckily you don’t have to worry about that comparison here, or potentially needing to compromise to get a larger diameter. Both the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature binoculars have a 4.2 mm exit pupil diameter.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is another consideration that is crucial for many consumers. Having sufficiently forgiving eye relief is the key to being able to use your optics comfortably and effectively.
Luckily, here it’s also another factor you won’t need to worry about. The eyebox for both models of binoculars are identical, standing at 15.5 mm for the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature binoculars.
Interpupillary Adjustment
Interpupillary adjustment isn’t high on a lot of lists, but if you don’t have the appropriate range, you may find that your binoculars don’t focus effectively on your eyes. The adjustment range for the Razor is 57 to 74 mm (2.2 to 2.9"), which is only 1 mm larger than the adjustment range for the Signature, of 58 to 74 mm (2.2 to 2.9").
Focus Type
Both the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature binoculars are designed to utilize a traditional center focus wheel. This means to adjust your focus, there is a wheel between the two eyepieces that must be adjusted to focus for the needs of your eyes.
Features
Fogproof
You’ll get a crystal clear view with both of these fog-proof binoculars. The Vortex Razor HD has been filled with Argon and the Burris Optics Signature Binoculars are filled with nitrogen.
Water Resistant
Both the Razor and the Signature are water resistant, which makes them a great choice for use in all types of weather. Whether you’re hunting or bird watching, you’ll be able to enjoy your hobbies rain or shine.
General
Dimensions
If the size of the binoculars is a deciding factor for you, then it’s hard to choose between the two. They’ll take up the same footprint, both with a length of 6.8 inches and a width of 5.1 inches.
Weight
Another detail the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature Binoculars share in common is their weight. Both of these binoculars will add just 28.7 oz, or 813.6 g, to your bag.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to deciding on the best pair of binoculars for your next great adventure, both the Vortex Razor HD and the Burris Optics Signature Binoculars are great options. There are several ways in which these binoculars are similar, as they have the same dimensions, weight, objective lens size, eye relief, prism type, and magnification.
Their field of view and angle of view is one of the areas where these binoculars differ, with the Razor HD being a bit more generous in both categories. Ultimately the best choice for you comes down to your personal preferences and which one fits your needs better.