Primary Arms has certainly made a name for themselves when it comes to weapon mounted optics, from rifle scopes to red dot sights, however they’ve recently ventured into stand alone optics with their new SLx and GLx Binoculars. Both of these new models are made in 10x magnification with 42mm objective lenses. The SLx model is made with a plastic body, while the GLx is made of magnesium with a rubber overmold. Primary Arms was kind enough to grant my request to review the Primary Arms GLx binocular, let’s take a look at their first go at the binoc market.
Primary Arms Coverage on AllOutdoor & TFB
DISCLAIMER
I would like to point out that my camera doesn’t do this binocular full justice, so while my photos show more distortion around the edges through the optic, this was not the case for my eyes and there was only a very slight distortion to my eyes at the very extreme inside edges. I would also like to point out that some of my photos didn’t show the fullest detail of my subjects since the animals kept moving.
PRIMARY ARMS GLX BINOCULAR REVIEW: INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
The new Primary Arms GLx binocular I received came in a brightly colored box that contained a carry case, neck strap, manual, and lens cloth. The GLx binos were also supplied with objective and ocular lens covers. I will say that to date, the objective lens covers provided with the GLx are my favorite binocular covers yet. A small rubber retaining ring stays on the barrels, and the ½ inch deep cover cups fit neatly over the objective lenses securely, and are only coming off with intentional force. The objective lens covers also feature a tab for quick doffing with your pinkie fingers.
The overall construction and fit and finish are perfect. The rubber overmolding was expertly mated to the barrels and body, and feel as though it should protect the GLx binocular from minor tumbles and everyday bumps against gear and trees afield. I heartily approve of the haze grey color of the overmolding, since it will stand out at close distances against the natural greens and tans of the outdoors if they get dropped or left behind. Although at distance, the grey should blend in just fine and not draw overt attention to the user. The focus wheel and diopter adjustment ring are made of metal, which should add to its long term durability. The eyepieces provide up to a quarter inch eye relief between two levels of adjustment.
One minor complaint I had was that when the GLx binocs were folded to my eye width, my fingers were a bit cramped for a two handed hold. However, I adjusted to a more intertwined grasp rather than trying to grip both barrels. Even though I had to alter my grip on the GLx binocs compared to others, it wasn’t awkward, just different.
The only mention of the location of manufacture was on the box, which states that they are made in China, which has never bothered me as long as quality could be found in the end use.
SPECS
- Grey finish
- 10x Fixed magnification
- 42mm Objective lens
- Waterproof and shockproof
- Magnesium construction with rubber overmold
- Fully multicoated lenses
- 15.2mm Eye relief
- 6.5 Degrees angular field of view
- 341 ft. Field of view @ 1,000 yards
- 2 Meter close focus
- Prism Type: Roof
- Length: 5.5 in.
- Width: 5 in.
- Height: 2 in.
- Weight: 23.74 oz.
- Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty
- Includes soft case and Neoprene neck strap
FIELD USE
The carry case and neck strap provided with the Primary Arms GLx binocular aren’t fancy or stylish per se, but they fulfill their intended role perfectly. The neck strap is made primarily of a wide, padded neoprene material, and attaches to the binocular with nylon straps and plastic stays. The strap is comfortable around the neck for long periods, and the 28.3 ounce weight (with strap) of the GLx binocular wasn’t burdensome on our hikes.
The ED- Extra Low Dispersion glass on the Primary Arms GLx binocular was perfect and I didn’t detect any color separation in the image, and my eyes felt right at home in them while glassing my surroundings and its inhabitants. The focus wheel made for quick, responsive adjustments. I’m not able to show you depth perception with photos, but it was perfect as I would have expected. The glass is crisp and bright, and allowed me to see every detail.
I thoroughly enjoyed using the Primary Arms GLx binocular to spot deer, turkey, eagles, and other birds and small game. Bald eagles have really rebounded in the last couple decades, at least in my area, and I’ve found a couple large nests this year. One of the nests we could get a bit closer to, but it was difficult to see if it was occupied until I brought out the GLx binos. We’ve also been blessed with plenty of turkey in the area as well, and I enjoyed watching them through the Primary Arms field glasses too.
Primary Arms lists the GLx binocular as being waterproof, so I naturally had to test that once my local stream opened up. I kept the binocs under for a few minutes with the caps off. I never saw any bubbles coming from it, and my inspection showed that each barrel was nice and dry inside.
FINAL THOUGHTS
For Primary Arms’ first swing at the binocular market, they hit a home run with the GLx binocs. Their listed price of $259 is quite reasonable for the combination of quality construction and ED glass. I can certainly recommend The GLx binocular to anyone, but especially to anyone that wants the step above the $100-150 range, while still not breaking the bank. I’ve been looking for some affordable binoculars for my department to keep in each squad car, and I’m going to recommend the GLx binocular. You can view the GLx binocular page HERE, or visit PrimaryArms.com to see their whole product lineup.
What do you think about the new GLx Binocular from Primary Arms? If you’ve alread grabbed a binocular from Primary Arms, which model did you go with, and what has your experience been?
