Hawke Optics' Vantage HD 8x34 binoculars earned "Best Compact Binoculars" recognition in Outdoor Life's 2026 Budget Optics Test. Outdoor Life Optics Editor Andrew McKean praised the lightweight, one-hand binocular for its exceptional optical quality and portability at an MSRP of $189.
OPTICS
Firefield released the Verge binocular lineup in 8x42 and 10x42 configurations, featuring fully multicoated optics, BK7 roof prisms, and IPX4 water resistance. Designed for hunters and outdoor users seeking reliable performance without premium pricing, both models offer durable polycarbonate housing and internal focusing systems for field use.
Trijicon Inc. announced new enhanced RTR reticles for select ACOG Compact models, featuring .223 and 9mm PCC options with battery-free tritium and fiber-optic illumination. The reticles offer increased center-dot size for faster target acquisition and include caliber-specific ballistic holds and ranging capabilities.
Viridian Weapon Technologies announced the availability of its VENTA riflescope lineup, featuring three magnification configurations with fully multi-coated optics and low-profile capped turrets. The scopes are priced from $89 to $99 MSRP and include mounting rings and lens caps for immediate field use.
German Precision Optics (GPO USA) announces the upgraded RangeGuide 10x50 rangefinding binoculars with enhanced electronic systems and next-generation laser technology extending maximum ranging to 3,600 yards. The compact, lightweight design features True Range Angle Technology, improved OLED display, and GPObright lens coatings, retailing for $1,659.99.
Steiner Optics launched the Overwatch Program, providing qualified military, law enforcement, first responders, and corrections personnel special pricing on select products including the 8x30 Military Marine binoculars, T6Xi riflescope, and T1Xi red dot through authorized dealers.
Vortex Optics has introduced a new green dot model to its Venom® Enclosed Micro Red Dot lineup, offering shooters an alternative for varying lighting conditions. The new Venom® Enclosed Micro Green Dot features a 3 MOA dot, enclosed aluminum housing, and motion activation, with an MSRP of $289.99.
Pulsar has released the Telos LRF XT50, a flagship thermal monocular featuring a 1,280×1,024 HD sensor, 17.5° field of view, 2,516-yard detection range, and built-in laser rangefinder measuring to 1,312 yards. The device includes 2x–16x magnification with Zoom Boost, Full HD AMOLED display with image stabilization, and 128 GB recorder.
Vortex introduces the VMR-5 reticle option for the Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56 FFP riflescope, designed for PRS shooters to quickly see impact and adjust. The scope features 6-36x magnification, L-TEC+ zero system, and class-leading HD optics, available at MAP $2,999.99.
EOTECH and Unity Tactical have partnered to introduce the EOTECH HHS UNITY I, combining the EXPS3-0 sight and G33 magnifier with Unity's FAST mounting systems. The system features a 2.26-inch optical centerline height and an FTC OMNI mount that stows the magnifier below the sightline for rapid CQB-to-distance transitions, available in Black or Tan at $1,599 MSRP.
German Precision Optics (GPO USA) announced the GPO Setback™ Cantilever 3" extension mount designed for compact tactical 30mm riflescopes, allowing up to 3" forward or rearward positioning for optimal eye relief. The precision-machined aircraft-grade aluminum mount retails for $89.99 and is available through authorized dealers and gpo-usa.com.
EOTECH announced the HWS CUAS (Counter Unmanned Aircraft Sight), available in EXPS3 and XPS3 models, featuring a sophisticated aiming reticle for rapid engagement of stationary and moving drones. VP of Engineering Todd Estes highlighted how holographic technology corrects for parallax error and provides superior field of view compared to conventional lenses.
Primary Arms Optics has opened pre-orders for two new long-range scopes: the PLx 2.5-20x48 and PLx 4.5-36x56 FFP Compact Rifle Scopes, featuring Japanese-manufactured ED glass, Steel-on-Steel turrets, and modular Cartridge Turrets. Shipping begins in September with prices starting at $2,299.99.
Leupold & Stevens, Inc. announced the VX-Freedom Straight-Wall riflescope, designed for rifles chambered in popular straight-wall cartridges. The scope ships with three pre-calibrated elevation dials for .350 Legend, .400 Legend, and .450 Bushmaster, enabling hunters to compensate for bullet drop at extended ranges.
Leupold & Stevens, Inc. announced the addition of Hornady's 4DOF ballistic calculator and Precision Cut Archery software to its RX-5000 rangefinder. These industry-leading ballistic solvers are available as free downloads through the Leupold Control App via firmware update, bringing advanced trajectory solutions to rifle hunters, bowhunters, and competitive archers worldwide.
Steiner unveiled the MPS 2.0 Micro Pistol Sight, an enclosed emitter red dot designed for duty and defense with enhanced durability, longer battery life, and improved ergonomics. The optic features redesigned brightness controls, up to 90,000 hours of runtime, and compatibility with the industry-standard ACRO footprint for multiple weapon platforms.
Hawke Optics announces the second-generation Frontier ED X Binoculars featuring rare-earth Lanthanum optical glass, extra-low-dispersion glass, and dielectric-coated BAK-4 roof prisms for exceptional clarity and light transmission. Available in four models with magnesium alloy chassis and backed by Hawke's No-Fault Lifetime warranty.
Sightmark announces the G-Shot, a red dot sight designed to mount directly to factory Glock slides without milling or gunsmithing. Compatible with Gen 3, 4, and 5 Glock models, the G-Shot features a 3 MOA dot reticle, automatic brightness adjustment, and IP67 waterproof rating.
ATN Corp released a major firmware update for the ATN ThOR 6 Elite thermal rifle scope, improving image quality, SharpIR processing, digital zoom clarity, and battery recognition. The free update is available through the ATN Connect 6 app or USB-C for all ThOR 6 Elite owners.
GRITR Sports, a Texas firearms retailer, is featuring LIEMKE thermal optics including clip-on devices, a monocular, and a riflescope with free shipping. The selection includes the LIEMKE MERLIN 50, Merlin-42, Sperber-1, Merlin-35, and Merlin-13 models designed for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
