Product Review: ALPS OutdoorZ Bino Harness X
A good pair of binoculars is a tool that should be on every hunter’s gear list. Whether you’re doing long-range scouting, hunting in the backcountry or sitting in a tree stand or blind on a farm, binoculars help you look for movement, see more than the naked eye and get a good visual of an animal. And when you invest in a good pair of binoculars, it’s important to protect them.
Until recently, I was using a basic harness that clipped onto my binoculars. It was comfortable and compact, but when hiking in rugged or steep terrain, I found that it bounced a lot and my optics weren’t protected from the elements. I have looked at various binocular harness packs in the past, but held out on purchasing one because I was leery of having a “front pack” in addition to my backpack—concerned that it would be too big, too hot, in the way and just uncomfortable.
After much consideration, I decided to purchase the ALPS OutdoorZ Bino Harness X pack. I received it in time to use on the last weekend of archery elk season.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Adjustable loop closure for quick, easy and quiet access. Many competitive packs have snap, zipper or Velcro closures which can make accessing binoculars slow and can be loud in the field. This was one of the most important features for my purchase. I like how easy and quiet the pack is to open and close.
Front U-shaped design allows for quick access to binoculars without having to reach into a pack. But, if the loop closure isn’t fastened, it may be easier for your binoculars to fall out if you bend over.
Attached lens cloth in separate zipper compartment is helpful for wiping dust from lenses, and since it is attached, there’s not issue with dropping or losing it. And being in a separate compartment, it doesn’t interfere with accessing your binoculars.
Adjustable and detachable harness fits a variety of body types/sizes and can be adjusted to fit over thicker or thinner clothing. It is easy to adjust, and includes elastic bands so the excess strap can be folded and tucked away.
Non-metallic attachment straps easily attach to your binoculars, and quick release snaps make it easy to disconnect.
Padded back panel is compact and comfortable.
