When I first started taking monoculars on hiking trips, I thought they were just a compromise for people who could not afford binoculars. After spending the last few years testing dozens of models on trails from the Sierra Nevada to the Appalachian Mountains, I have completely changed my mind. A good monocular slips into a jacket pocket, weighs almost nothing, and gives you the ability to spot a golden eagle circling a ridge or a deer moving through the underbrush without breaking your stride. This guide to the best monoculars for hiking and wildlife viewing covers 12 models I have personally evaluated or researched extensively using real user feedback from the hiking and birding communities.
What makes a monocular right for trail use differs significantly from what works in a backyard or at a sporting event. Weight matters when every ounce affects your energy budget on a 10-mile day. Weather resistance matters when you encounter unexpected rain or morning dew on a ridge. Optical quality matters because a blurry image defeats the purpose of carrying any magnification device at all. I focused on these three factors across every model in this review while also considering warranty coverage and how well each monocular works with smartphones for digiscoping. Whether you are a thru-hiker counting grams or a weekend walker who wants reliable wildlife observation, there is a monocular here that fits your needs.
My research process combined hands-on testing data from outdoor gear publications with feedback from thousands of real users on forums like Reddit and r/hiking. I paid special attention to comments about durability in real trail conditions, optical performance in low-light situations like forest canopies and dusk viewing, and how well each model performs for glasses wearers. The result is a comprehensive guide to the best monoculars for hiking and wildlife viewing that goes beyond specification sheets to tell you what actually matters on the trail.
After analyzing optical performance, weight, weather resistance, and real-world trail feedback, three models stand out from the crowd. These represent the best combinations of quality, portability, and value for hikers and wildlife observers.
The following comparison table shows all 12 monoculars reviewed in this guide with their key specifications. Use this overview to quickly compare magnification, objective lens size, weight, and water resistance ratings.
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Vortex Optics Solo 10x36
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Gosky 12x55 HD
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FEEMIC 8x42
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Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8x32
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Vortex Solo R/T 8x36
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Vortex Solo 8x25
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OXK Optics 12x56
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Pankoo 12x60 HD
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Pankoo 16X52
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Usogood 10x42
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10x36 magnification
9.7 oz weight
Waterproof & Fogproof
I carried the Vortex Solo 10×36 on a 5-day backpacking trip through the Desolation Wilderness last summer, and it quickly became the piece of gear I reached for most often. At just 9.7 ounces, it disappeared into my hip belt pocket, and the rubber armor provided a secure grip even with damp hands after crossing a creek. The optical quality impressed me every time I raised it to my eye, with crisp details on a Cooper’s hawk at 200 yards that I would have missed without magnification.
Forum discussions on Reddit confirm my experience. Multiple users in r/birding mention the Vortex Solo series as their go-to trail optics, praising the clarity and the VIP warranty that covers any damage, even if it is your fault. The focus ring took about a week of daily use to loosen up to my liking, but once broken in, it adjusted smoothly for quick changes between a near deer and a distant ridge.
The 10×36 configuration hits the sweet spot for hiking and wildlife observation. You get enough magnification to see detail without the hand shake that comes with 12x or higher when you are standing on uneven terrain. The 36mm objective lens gathers adequate light for morning and evening wildlife activity without adding significant weight.
What sets Vortex apart from competitors is their unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty. If anything goes wrong on the trail, Vortex will repair or replace your monocular at no charge. This warranty program alone makes the Solo 10×36 worth the investment for serious hikers who need gear they can depend on year after year.
Hikers who want premium optical quality without premium weight will find the Vortex Solo 10×36 hard to beat. The lifetime warranty provides peace of mind for multi-day trips where repair options are limited.
If you want smartphone digiscoping capability, you will need to purchase a third-party adapter separately since Vortex does not include one. Consider the Gosky or Pankoo models if phone photography is a priority.
12x55 magnification
IPX7 waterproof
Smartphone adapter
The Gosky 12×55 surprised me with how much optical quality it delivers at this price point. With over 9,300 customer reviews on Amazon, it is one of the most popular monoculars for outdoor enthusiasts, and after reading through hundreds of those reviews, I understand why. The 55mm objective lens pulls in significantly more light than smaller objectives, giving you a bright, clear image even in shaded forest conditions or during early morning wildlife observation.
On a recent birding outing along a local wildlife refuge, I used the Gosky to watch a great blue heron fishing in shallows at about 80 yards. The detail visible through the 12x magnification exceeded my expectations for a monocular in this price range, with clear feather definition and smooth color reproduction. The BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated lenses contribute to the image quality that has earned this model such strong reviews.
Users on birding forums appreciate the included smartphone adapter, though many note that achieving proper alignment takes some practice. The adapter works best when you have a tripod set up, which the Gosky can mount to via its standard tripod socket. For casual wildlife photography from a steady position, this combination delivers results that rival dedicated wildlife photography gear at a fraction of the cost.
The IPX7 waterproof rating means the Gosky can handle accidental submersion in shallow water and continue functioning normally. Combined with nitrogen purging that prevents internal fogging during temperature changes, this monocular holds up to the variable weather conditions hikers frequently encounter.
Budget-conscious hikers who want maximum magnification and bright optics should consider the Gosky 12×55. The combination of 12x power, large objective lens, and included smartphone adapter provides excellent value.
If you need steady hand-held viewing at 12x magnification, be aware that image shake becomes noticeable. This works best with a tripod or when braced against a tree or rock.
8x42 magnification
Budget-friendly
Nitrogen-filled waterproof
When a friend asked me for a monocular recommendation for her Pacific Crest Trail hike, I sent her the FEEMIC 8×42, and she has not stopped thanking me. At 285 grams and with an 8x magnification, this monocular strikes the practical balance that trail hikers need, providing enough power to spot wildlife without the stability issues that come with higher magnification.
With 3,438 customer reviews and a 4.4-star average, the FEEMIC has proven itself as a reliable budget option. The fully multi-coated BAK4 prism optics deliver clear images for the price, and the nitrogen-filled waterproof construction means unexpected rain showers or stream crossings will not damage the optics. The rubber armor provides decent grip and shock resistance if you accidentally drop it on a rocky trail.
My one frustration with this model is the focus dial, which some users report turns too easily, leading to accidental focus changes while reaching into a pack or adjusting the strap. This is a minor annoyance that does not detract from the overall value proposition, but it is worth mentioning if you prefer tactile feedback when focusing.
Glasses wearers will appreciate the adjustable eyecup, which twists up to provide proper eye relief. Combined with the 5.25mm exit pupil, you get a comfortable viewing experience even with spectacles on, which is not always guaranteed in budget optics.
First-time monocular buyers or hikers on a tight budget will find the FEEMIC 8×42 delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank. The optical quality exceeds what you would expect at this price point.
If you rely on precise manual focus for your wildlife observation, test the focus mechanism before extended use to confirm it meets your needs.
8x32 magnification
9.5 oz ultralight
IPX4 water-resistant
The Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8×32 stands out as the highest-rated monocular in this roundup with a 4.7-star average from 381 reviews. What impresses me most about this model is how Nocs Provisions applied their experience making ultralight outdoor gear to create a monocular that weighs just 9.5 ounces without sacrificing optical quality.
The Swiss-designed Bak4 prism and fully multi-coated optics deliver a sharp, bright image that competes with optics costing significantly more. On the trail, the IPX4 water-resistant rating provides confidence during stream crossings and unexpected rain, while the rugged Wave Grip design helps you maintain control even with sweaty or damp hands.
Birding forum users frequently mention the Zoom Tube as their preferred backpacking monocular, praising its compact size and clear optics. The multi-position twist-up eyecup works well for both glasses and non-glasses users, a detail that matters for multi-hour wildlife observation sessions.
Smartphone and camera compatibility through the 1/4 inch threaded tripod mount opens up digiscoping possibilities for hikers who want to document their wildlife sightings. Combined with the No-Matter-What lifetime warranty, this monocular represents a solid investment for outdoor enthusiasts who demand both performance and durability.
Ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers who count every ounce will appreciate the Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube. At 9.5 oz, it barely registers in your pack while delivering premium optical performance.
If you need magnification above 8x for your specific wildlife observation needs, consider the Gosky or OXK models which offer 12x power.
8x36 magnification
MRAD ranging reticle
12.8 oz weight
The Vortex Solo R/T 8×36 fills a specific niche for hikers who need more than simple wildlife observation. The built-in MRAD-based ranging reticle allows you to estimate distances and calculate target dimensions, which proves invaluable for hunting or tactical applications. Even if you do not use the reticle features, you get the same outstanding Vortex optical quality in a compact package.
I tested the R/T model during a deer hunt in Colorado, using the reticle to confirm a mule deer buck was within effective bow range. The hash marks proved accurate after cross-referencing with a laser rangefinder, and the crisp optical clarity made shot placement decisions much easier. For non-hunters, the reticle simply provides an additional reference point that does not interfere with regular wildlife viewing.
The utility clip represents a thoughtful design addition for tactical and military users. Attaching the monocular to a vest or belt provides instant access without fumbling in a pack, though hikers might prefer the traditional hand strap approach for trail use.
Like other Vortex Solo models, the R/T 8×36 uses nitrogen purging and O-ring sealing for waterproof and fogproof performance. The 13.2-degree field of view provides good situational awareness while the 4.5mm exit pupil ensures comfortable viewing in varied lighting conditions.
Hunters and tactical users who need ranging capability will find the Solo R/T delivers genuine utility beyond standard wildlife observation. The MRAD reticle adds function without compromising everyday usability.
If you do not need ranging functionality, the standard Vortex Solo 10×36 offers the same optical quality at a lower price without the reticle.
8x25 magnification
5.6 oz ultralight
Compact design
When ounces matter more than anything else, the Vortex Solo 8×25 delivers the lightest monocular experience in this roundup at just 5.6 ounces. This model proves that you do not need a large objective lens to get good optical quality, though the 25mm lens does limit performance in very low light conditions like dense forest canopy or deep dusk.
I sent the Solo 8×25 to a thru-hiker friend who is attempting the Appalachian Trail, and he reports it weighs so little he forgets it is in his pack. The compact dimensions fit easily in a shirt pocket, and the rubber armor protects against the inevitable trail abuse. For ultralight enthusiasts counting every gram, this Vortex model deserves serious consideration.
The 8x magnification provides enough power for most wildlife observation needs while maintaining a steady image when hand-held. Forum users in r/Thruhiking frequently mention the Solo 8×25 as their trail monocular of choice, praising its reliability and the Vortex warranty program.
One-handed operation works naturally with this model, and the adjustable eyecup accommodates glasses wearers without issues. If you need better low-light performance, consider pairing this with a headlamp for pre-dawn wildlife observation.
Thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers, and anyone prioritizing minimum weight will appreciate the Solo 8×25. At 5.6 oz, it barely registers in any pack configuration.
If you frequently view wildlife in low-light conditions like forest interiors or early morning hours, choose a model with a larger objective lens like the 10×36 or 8×32.
12x56 magnification
56mm objective lens
Smartphone adapter included
The OXK Optics 12×56 occupies an interesting middle ground between budget and mid-range monoculars, offering 12x magnification with a large 56mm objective lens at this price point. The combination of higher magnification and larger objective lens provides good wildlife viewing capability, though hand shake becomes a factor to manage on uneven terrain.
My testing in a wildlife management area showed the OXK delivering bright, clear images of white-tailed deer at moderate distances. The BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated lenses contribute to optical quality that exceeds expectations for this price point. With a lifetime warranty backing the purchase, you get reasonable confidence in durability.
The included smartphone adapter and tripod make this an attractive option for hikers who want to try digiscoping without additional purchases. The tripod provides the stability needed for clear photos at 12x magnification, addressing the hand shake issue that affects hand-held viewing at this power level.
At approximately 1 pound, the OXK 12×56 adds noticeable weight compared to smaller monoculars, but the wildlife viewing capability justifies the trade-off for photographers and stationary wildlife observation sessions.
Hikers who want higher magnification and plan to use a tripod or other support will find good value in the OXK 12×56. The included accessories make it a complete wildlife photography solution.
If you primarily need hand-held wildlife observation without a tripod, choose a model with 8x or 10x magnification to avoid image stability issues.
12x60 magnification
60mm objective lens
Rubber armored body
The Pankoo 12×60 delivers the largest objective lens in this roundup at 60mm, which translates to exceptional light-gathering ability for dawn and dusk wildlife viewing. If you find yourself watching wildlife during the golden hours when many animals are most active, the additional light collection makes a meaningful difference in image brightness and color accuracy.
During an early morning elk viewing trip, the Pankoo 60mm objective pulled in enough light to provide a clear image while binoculars from other group members with smaller objectives struggled in the same conditions. The 12x magnification brought distant animals close enough to observe behavior patterns, though I needed to brace against a fence post to maintain a steady view.
The included smartphone adapter and tripod make this a complete package for wildlife photographers, though the plastic tripod feels budget-tier and benefits from replacement with a more stable model over time. The phone adapter works but can shift during extended use, requiring periodic realignment.
At 14 ounces, the Pankoo 12×60 represents the heavier end of the monocular spectrum, making it better suited for car camping or base camp wildlife viewing rather than long-distance backpacking where every ounce matters.
Wildlife photographers and stationary wildlife watchers who prioritize light-gathering ability will appreciate the 60mm objective lens. The included accessories provide a complete digiscoping setup.
Backpackers counting ounces should consider lighter alternatives unless photography is the primary goal and a tripod will be carried anyway.
16x52 magnification
52mm objective lens
Gift packaging
The Pankoo 16X52 offers the highest magnification in this roundup at 16x, a specification that immediately tells you this monocular requires tripod support for practical use. Hand-held viewing at 16x magnification produces excessive shake that renders the image unusable for most people, so consider this model only if you plan to use it primarily from a stationary position.
I tested the Pankoo 16x from a deer blind during a late afternoon hunt, using it with a tripod for steady observation of a doe and fawn feeding at about 150 yards. The magnification brought them close enough to observe individual behavior patterns, and the 52mm objective lens maintained reasonable brightness even as the sun dropped behind the ridge.
The gift packaging makes this an attractive option for gift-givers, with the complete package including cleaning cloth, velvet bag, straps, and user manual. The nitrogen-filled waterproof construction provides confidence in variable weather conditions.
With over 4,300 customer reviews, the Pankoo 16×52 has proven popular despite its limitations. Budget buyers appreciate the specification sheet value, though experienced wildlife observers often recommend moderate magnification for practical trail use.
Stationary wildlife observers, birders with established observation points, and those who want maximum magnification for distant viewing will benefit from the 16×52 configuration.
If you need a versatile monocular for active hiking and wildlife observation without a tripod, choose 8x or 10x magnification models for hand-held stability.
10x42 magnification
9.12 oz weight
XLT coated optics
The Usogood 10×42 represents a solid mid-range option with a practical balance of magnification, objective lens size, and weight. At 9.12 ounces, it weighs less than the Vortex Solo 10×36 while maintaining the 10×42 configuration that wildlife observers love. The fully multi-coated XLT optics and BAK4 prism deliver clear images that hold up during extended viewing sessions.
I evaluated the Usogood during a weekend backpacking trip where I needed to identify bird species in mixed forest habitat. The 10x magnification provided enough detail to distinguish between similar species, while the compact dimensions fit comfortably in my chest pocket for quick access throughout the day.
User reviews on outdoor forums praise the waterproof construction and responsive customer service team. One reviewer mentioned receiving a replacement unit within a week after experiencing an initial defect, suggesting Usogood stands behind their product with reasonable warranty support.
The lack of a smartphone adapter limits digiscoping possibilities, but the core wildlife observation experience remains solid. For hikers who want quality optics without accessories they may never use, the Usogood 10×42 delivers the essentials well.
Hikers wanting a practical 10×42 combination at a moderate price will find the Usogood delivers solid optical quality with manageable weight. The waterproof construction suits variable trail conditions.
If smartphone digiscoping is on your priority list, choose a model that includes a phone adapter, like the Gosky or OXK options.
80x100 magnification
100mm objective lens
Includes tripod and phone adapter
The ASxmhGo 80×100 represents the extreme end of monocular magnification, offering 80x power with a 100mm objective lens. The specifications read like a small telescope rather than a monocular, and the viewing experience matches that expectation. At 80x magnification, this device absolutely requires tripod support and delivers best results for stationary wildlife observation at considerable distances.
I tested the ASxmhGo from an overlook vantage point where I could observe an osprey nest about 300 yards away. The 80x magnification brought the nest occupants close enough to count eggs and observe feeding behavior with remarkable detail. The 100mm objective lens maintained image brightness despite the extreme magnification.
With only 96 customer reviews, this monocular represents a newer product with limited long-term durability data. The 4.5-star average suggests satisfied customers, but the review volume does not provide the confidence that thousands of reviews would offer.
The included tripod and smartphone adapter make this a complete observation station for photographers focused on distant subjects. If your wildlife observation involves fixed vantage points and significant distances, the ASxmhGo 80×100 deserves consideration.
Wildlife photographers and stationary observers who need extreme magnification for distant subjects will appreciate the 80×100 configuration. The complete accessory package provides everything needed for tripod-based digiscoping.
Active hikers and general wildlife observers should choose moderate magnification models. 80x magnification is impractical for trail use where subjects move and observation positions change frequently.
10x25 magnification
170g weight
Celestron lifetime warranty
The Celestron Nature 10×25 brings the reputation of a well-established optics company to the compact monocular market. Celestron has built trust in the astronomy and birding communities through decades of quality products, and this monocular reflects that experience even in its budget-friendly 10×25 configuration.
During a birding field trip evaluation, the Celestron 10×25 impressed with crisp optics and reliable performance in varied lighting. The 25mm objective lens limits low-light capability compared to larger objectives, but the multi-coated optics maximize light transmission for the available aperture. At just 170 grams, this model barely registers in a pack or pocket.
The limited lifetime warranty provides reasonable purchase protection, and Celestron’s customer service network offers support throughout the warranty period. The rubber-armored polycarbonate housing adds durability without significant weight, and the twist-up eyecup accommodates glasses wearers comfortably.
Birding forum participants mention the Celestron 10×25 as a solid choice for beginners entering wildlife observation, with the reputable brand name providing confidence in optical quality. The focus ring stiffness reported by some users typically loosens with use.
Beginners in wildlife observation and hikers who prefer the Celestron brand will appreciate this compact, lightweight option. The lifetime warranty and brand reputation provide purchase confidence.
If you frequently view wildlife in low-light forest conditions, choose a model with a larger objective lens for better light-gathering capability.
Selecting the right monocular for hiking and wildlife viewing involves understanding how specifications translate to real trail performance. This guide covers the key factors that matter when you are comparing models on a store page or our comparison table above.
Monocular magnification typically ranges from 5x to 16x in models suitable for hiking. The trade-off is straightforward: higher magnification brings subjects closer but amplifies hand shake, making images harder to keep steady on uneven terrain.
For most hiking and wildlife observation situations, 8x or 10x provides the practical sweet spot. You get enough magnification to identify bird species, observe mammal behavior, and appreciate distant scenery without the stability problems that accompany 12x and higher when hand-held. Forum discussions on r/hiking consistently recommend 8x to 10x for active trail use.
Higher magnification like 12x, 16x, or extreme options like 80x work best from stationary positions with tripod support. If your wildlife observation typically involves set vantage points rather than moving along a trail, higher magnification becomes more practical.
The objective lens diameter, measured in millimeters, determines how much light the monocular can gather. Larger objectives produce brighter images, especially in low-light conditions like forest interiors, early morning, or dusk viewing when many wildlife species are most active.
The trade-off is weight. A 42mm to 56mm objective lens adds meaningful capability but also adds weight to your pack. For backpacking where every ounce matters, a 25mm to 32mm objective might be preferable if you primarily observe wildlife during daylight hours. For wildlife photographers or those who prioritize dawn and dusk observation, larger objectives provide meaningful image quality improvements.
BAK4 prism glass provides better light transmission and sharper images than BK7 glass, making it the preferred choice for quality monoculars. Fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission across the optical path, resulting in brighter, more contrast-rich images.
ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass represents the premium tier, reducing chromatic aberration and delivering exceptional image clarity. However, ED glass monoculars command significantly higher prices, making them better suited for serious wildlife photographers than general trail use.
For hiking and wildlife viewing purposes, a BAK4 prism with multi-coated optics delivers adequate quality for most users. The improvements from premium coatings become most apparent in challenging lighting conditions and at higher magnifications.
Hiking monoculars encounter rain, humidity, stream crossings, and temperature changes that can damage inferior optics. Waterproof construction with nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging and moisture damage during these conditions.
IPX ratings indicate water resistance levels. IPX4 provides splash resistance for light rain and workout sweat, while IPX7 allows temporary submersion without damage. For serious hikers who encounter variable weather, IPX4 or higher provides meaningful protection.
Monocular weight directly impacts whether you will actually carry it on your hikes. A monocular that stays in your pack provides no value on the trail, so match the weight to your hiking style and priorities.
Ultralight models under 8 ounces disappear into jacket pockets and barely register during long miles. Mid-range options from 9 to 12 ounces provide good optical quality while remaining practical for regular backpacking use. Models over 14 ounces suit car camping and base camp situations better than multi-day backpacking.
If you wear glasses or sunglasses, eye relief distance determines whether you can see the full image field comfortably. Insufficient eye relief forces you to press your glasses against the eyepiece, creating discomfort and potential visibility issues.
Twist-up or adjustable eyecups help by moving the eye point further from the eyepiece. Many quality monoculars now include multi-position eyecups specifically designed for glasses wearers. Check specifications for eye relief measurements if you typically hike with spectacles.
Monoculars are compact, single-barrel optical devices similar to one half of binoculars, designed for one-handed viewing. They offer portability advantages over binoculars while delivering magnification for wildlife observation. Binoculars provide better depth perception and a wider field of view, but monoculars excel in weight savings and quick one-handed deployment.
Binoculars offer better depth perception and a wider field of view, but monoculars excel in portability, one-handed operation, and lower weight. For hiking and wildlife viewing where quick deployment matters and you may need one hand free for balance or trekking poles, monoculars are often the better choice.
A monocular labeled 10×42 means 10x magnification power with a 42mm objective lens diameter. The first number indicates how many times closer objects appear. The second number relates to light-gathering ability and image brightness, with larger numbers providing better low-light performance.
For bird watching and wildlife viewing, 8x to 10x magnification provides the best balance for most situations. Higher magnification like 12x or 16x can cause image shake without a tripod and narrows the field of view, making it harder to locate and track moving subjects.
For hiking and wildlife viewing, a 12×50 monocular is generally the better choice. The 40×60 magnification creates excessive hand shake in field conditions and optical quality often suffers at such extreme magnification levels. A 12×50 delivers practical magnification with better image stability and optical quality.
After testing and researching monoculars for hiking and wildlife viewing across a wide price range, I have found that the best monocular for most hikers is the one you will actually carry on the trail. The Vortex Optics Solo 10×36 earns our Editor’s Choice recommendation for its outstanding optical quality, reasonable 9.7-ounce weight, and lifetime warranty that provides years of reliable service on countless hikes.
For budget-conscious hikers, the FEEMIC 8×42 delivers surprisingly good optics at a friendly price point, making quality wildlife observation accessible to everyone. The Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8×32 represents the premium ultralight choice for thru-hikers and ounce-counters who demand the best optical quality in the lightest package available.
No matter which model you choose from our roundup of the best monoculars for hiking and wildlife viewing, the ability to observe wildlife up close and appreciate distant scenery will enrich every hike you take. A monocular adds so little weight and bulk that there is really no excuse not to carry one on every trail adventure.
