Each year, the Shot Show attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world, presenting the newest advancements in firearms, hunting, and outdoor gear. Our team attended this year, ready to explore and report on the latest trends and products from industry leaders. This year’s Show introduced us to new products from Leupold, including the Mark 4HD Rifle Scope Series, the RX-5000 Rangefinder and the Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide Gen II binoculars. We spoke with Nick from Leupold, who shared insights into this latest addition to their range of products.
The Upgraded Version of the Best-Seller
The BX-4 Pro Guide HD binoculars, which come in six different configurations, have been on the market for several years now and have managed to build a positive reputation among users. The first generation boasted a durable open bridge design combined with a non-slip finish on the sides of the body, ensuring a secure grip. However, this design could become somewhat uncomfortable to the hands after extended periods of use.
With the Gen II, introduced at the Show in four configurations—8×42, 10×42, 10×50, and 12×50—Leupold has made some fine adjustments to the overall build of the device.
Upon handling the Gen II for the first time, the most noticeable improvement is the brand-new housing, which feels significantly more comfortable. Its design is more ergonomic and user-friendly. The device measures 172.7 mm (6.8 inches) in length and weighs around 813 grams (28.7 ounces).
The second major change in the new generation of the Pro Guide is the introduction of the Form-Fit eyecup system. With the purchase of a second-generation model, customers have the option to select from three different eyecup designs: flat low-eyecups for minimal interference, contoured medium-eyecups for a snug fit, and winged eyecups designed to shield the eyes from stray light and environmental elements such as wind, snow, dust, and rain. These varying eyecup shapes are included in the box, allowing users to swap them out based on the usage situation or personal preference.
What is more, the second generation introduces different lens coatings that contribute to a noticeable improvement in light transmission and image clarity. This does not come as a surprise, however, since the binoculars are built around Leupold’s Elite Optical System.
Another aspect we noticed immediately during our hands-on time with the device at the fair, even though the testing conditions were far from perfect, was the substantial reduction in glare.
The binoculars are constructed with a lightweight aluminum body, giving them a solid feel. Similar to the first generation, they feature generous eyeboxes, and the focus adjustment wheel operates smoothly. Diopter adjustments are made by pulling out the circular know from the end of the focusing wheel, making changes, and then popping it back in.
Final Thoughts and Price
The new generation of the BX-4 Pro Guide HD is set to hit the market in Q1 2024, with a predicted retail price for the European market ranging between 900 € and 1100 €, depending on the configuration. We believe this to be an excellent price point for the performance observed.
The binoculars are covered by a lifetime warranty in the USA, which applies as long as the product is in production and until it is discontinued. However, in the EU, due to legal requirements, the warranty is expected to be specified in years, which we anticipate to be around 10 years. We’re pleased to witness Leupold‘s brand continuing to grow and stay dedicated to innovation. The company’s increasing recognition among European users points out its promising future on European soil.
