Vortex.Vortex Diamondback HD Binoculars.

If you don’t have a pair of good binoculars, you probably need a pair. If you do have a pair but need to upgrade, you should check out this pair of Vortex Diamondback HD 15X56 Binoculars.

When it comes to quality optics, Vortex has remains at the top of the list. This is not just because of their quality-built stuff, but also their reputation for outstanding customer service.

Vortex binoculars.
The GlassPak Harness comes with the Diamondback Binoculars and has built-in straps to hold them when they are not in the GlassPak chest pouch. Image: Gun Hub News

As I get older, my patience gets shorter when dealing with long wait times on the phone, and no result in the end. But I can say from personal experience, Vortex has mastered the customer service arena. We will talk a little more about this in a bit.

And you need them because…

Whether you’re a hunter, birdwatcher, survivalist, prepper, hiker, or a simple every-day American, you still need a good pair of binoculars.

I once broke down on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere (or so I thought). At the time, I had my Vortex Solo monocular with me. I was surprised at how helpful this thing was at deciding where to go. I spotted a building with them and walked to it for a phone (I had no reception).

Vortex binoculars.
This is a perfect pair of binoculars for hunting, camping, hiking, survival, or just keeping in the truck for emergencies. Image: Gun Hub News.

The point is, we often associate binoculars with hunting, hiking and other outdoor activities which are their biggest use. But there is a benefit to keeping a pair in your vehicle and/or at home for emergencies too. You always have an advantage when you can see further away, regardless of the situation or circumstance.

So, without any more babbling about the need for them, let’s talk about Diamondback HD 15X56 Binoculars.  

Diamondback HD 15X56 Binoculars

The Vortex Diamondback HD 15X56 binoculars are a powerful magnification built with enhanced clarity and durability. And as I just mentioned above, these things are perfect for a variety of activities.

The Diamondback HD 15X56 features Vortex’s HD Optical System, designed to enhance clarity and minimize chromatic aberration. This results in sharper images with improved color fidelity, even at longer distances.

The lenses are fully multi-coated to maximize light transmission, which gives you a brighter image in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk.

Vortex Diamondback Binoculars.
Vortex Diamondback HD 15XX56 Binoculars. Image: Gun Hub News

These binoculars are nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making them waterproof and fog-proof. This is a great feature to have for something that could end up out in the elements a lot. The rubber armor exterior adds an extra layer of protection and but also makes a comfortable grip.

At approximately 7 inches tall and 5.8 inches wide, this is not what I would call a compact size, but they are not overly bulky either. They weigh about 35 ounces so it’s not bad carrying them around your neck.

Vortex includes a comfortable, adjustable neck strap to help support the binoculars during extended use. A soft carry case is also included, which is great for storing them in.

Diamondback Binoculars Specs

  • Magnification: 15X
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
  • Field of View: 230 feet @ 1000 yards
  • Close Focus Distance: 14 feet
  • Eye Relief: 15.6mm
  • Exit Pupil: 3.7mm
  • Weight: 35 ounces
  • Height: 7 inches
  • Width: 5.8 inches
  • Waterproof and fog-proof

What Does 15X56 Mean?

For those of you not familiar with scopes or binoculars, here is a quick rundown of what that means. When you see “15X56” on a pair of binoculars, those numbers tell you about the magnification and objective lens size.

Magnification (15X)

The first number, which in this case is 15, means the binoculars magnify the image 15 times. This everything will be 15 times closer than what you’d see with the naked eye. This is considered a high-powered magnification, making these binoculars ideal for long-distance viewing.

Vortex binoculars.
The Diamondback HD binoculars have 15X magnification with a 56mm lenses. They also come with the Vortex VIP warranty. Image: Jason Mosher

Keep in mind, if you get too high of a magnification, it can make it harder to keep the image stable without a tripod. A good example of this is spotting scopes which have a much higher magnification than most binoculars.

Objective Lens Size (56mm)

The second number, “56,” refers to the diameter of the objective lenses in millimeters. Larger objective lenses allow more light to enter, improving image brightness and clarity. This is especially helpful in low-light conditions, making the 15X56 binoculars ideal for dawn and dusk viewing.

Accessories that come with the Diamondback Binoculars

One cool accessory Vortex now has is called the GlassPak and guess what… you get one in the box. You can purchase additional ones or the PRO version separately, but one comes with the Diamondback HD set. You also get a tripod adaptor to use with the Diamondback binoculars. These are some really cool accessors to get in the box at no additional cost.

For those planning extended use with the Diamondback HD 15X56 binoculars, consider investing in a backpack or carry bag. Vortex has just released their GlassPak system which is a cool harness made to carry your binoculars right on your chest.

Vortex GlassPak
The Vortex GlassPak comes with the Diamondback HD binoculars and makes it eash to carry them during outings. Image: Gun Hun News

You can also add some additional pouches to the system for sunglasses, range finder, and even a handgun holster.

Vortex Customer Service

If you are wondering why I rambled on so much about Vortex’s customer service, here’s why.

I’ve called Vortex multiple times while writing reviews for their products. I don’t have a special number for them, I simply called the number listed on their customer service page. Every time I’ve called, someone answers the phone and answers my question.

I’ve also known others who have accidentally damaged their Vortex product and Vortex has accommodated them every time.

When they say “no questions asked” they mean it. One of my friends left his binoculars on the trunk of his car by mistake. About the time he remembered, he saw them fly off in the review mirror. The binoculars were a Christmas gift from his wife the year before.

Vortex building.
The Vortex facility is an awesome place to see if your ever in the area. The public can stop in and see their show room. Image: Gun Hub News

Let’s just say, he was surprised that an honest mistake on his part was still covered. Vortex got him set up with a new pair.

If you are going to spend your hard-earned money on a product, buy a product that is guaranteed for life. I was fortunate enough to go on a tour at the Vortex facility a while back. It was strange to see such a large company with a local business attitude and mindset. Their customer service team is the heart of the company.

If you don’t have a pair, get a Vortex pair

I’ve been using the Diamondback HD binoculars for a while now and they are probably the best pair I’ve ever owned. They go with me to any outdoor events and when I’m not using them, I keep them in my truck.

You never know when you will need to see what’s beyond your eyesight. And if you are going to pick up a pair of binoculars, get a quality pair that will last for the rest of your life.

Check out more Vortex product reviews on Gun Hub News here.

By Jason Mosher

Jason Mosher is a three-term Sheriff from Missouri and has been writing in gun industry for many years. He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration, business management, marketing, and agriculture. He is a graduate of the FBI-LEEDA executive leadership program and a level IV Certified Crime Scene Investigator through Missouri Southern State University. Jason is a law enforcement firearms instructor, armorer, and holds instructor certifications in multiple other areas.

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