Leupold Golden Ring vs. Bushnell Elite E2

Looking for a hunting binocular and I am considering the Leupold GR now that they have the $100 rebate. How does the Bushnell E2 compare? I like the fact that the Bushnell has raingurad and wonder how it compare to the Leupy. Thanks in advance.

Both the Leupold Green Ring and Bushnell Elite bring nice features to the table. In comparing the Leupold Wind River Pinnacle 8x42 and the Bushnell Elite E2 8x42 the Leupold offers phase and L-coated lens which are comparable to the Bushnell's PC-3 coatings. The Bushnell does offer the rainguard coating to give their lenses a water repellent coating to shed rain drops and prevent fogging. The E2 binocular also utilizes ED glass to help with chromatic aberration. All in all, both binoculars have nice features but the Elite E2 does offer more features than the Wind River.

Which Golden Ring? The top line has ED glass
http://www.opticsplanet.com/leupold-628 ... ulars.html

Hi

I wouldn't make a decision based on Rainguard. It will help, just a bit, in some light precip conditions, but it won't magically allow you to use a bino in the rain anymore than another bino.

Of the two, I much prefer the E2, though, based on handling, at least for me. Optics on both a very good.

The Leupold GR HD is far superior to the Elite E2 in every respect. The optics are superb, they're built like a tank, and you get Leupy's reliable service/warranty. The net cost of $599 after rebate makes it a real steal.

Yes, I was referring to the Golden Ring with ED glass as listed by the link ET posted. Joanie K, would you still rate the E2 equivalent to the Leupold GR with ED glass?

Yes, the Golden Ring series by Leupold has exceptional quality and probably exceeds that of the Elite E2. I was comparing the comparable Green Ring Leupold to the Elite E2. The Golden Ring series do use superior coatings and are very comfortable to use for a prolonged time. Coupled with that they are made in the US at their Oregon factory makes them even more desirable. The Green Ring by Leupold is not manufactured at their Orgeon facility as are the Elite E2 which is manufactured off shore. The Golden Ring does also stand behind their excellent warranty.

Hi

Right, the Green Rings are not the binocular the Gold Rings, are. Really quite different binos. You also need to specify the GR in question. I would rate the E2 as easily better than the Cascades the better binocular and fairly comparable to the Pinnacles.