No optics test is tougher than ours. We put the latest full-size binoculars through the wringer, including a submersion-and-deep-freeze torture test. Here’s how they stacked up
Author: Dave Hurteau
Dave Hurteau
Dave Hurteau took the position of assistant editor at Field & Stream in 1994, and has been with the brand ever since. His first job was to work on F&S’s 100th anniversary issue, and in 2020, he helped spearhead the 125th. In that span, he’s worked with many of the magazine’s greats, from Gene Hill and Bob Brister to Bill Heavey, and David E. Petzal. Highlights Education Hurteau graduated from the University of Rochester with degrees in English and philosophy, the latter of which helped him to rationalize the days spent hunting and fishing in western New York when he should have been in class. Experience After graduating college, Hurteau launched a regional hunting and fishing magazine from an apartment in Ithaca, New York, and soon parlayed that into the job at Field & Stream. He’s had no less than eight titles with F&S, from gear editor to contributing writer and, now, executive editor. He’s been nominated for a National Magazine Award as a writer and was part of an F&S editorial team to win two National Magazine Awards for General Excellence—the highest honor in magazine journalism. Hurteau oversees much of the brand’s hunting, gear, and general outdoors coverage. An serious hunter and angler himself, he is co-author of The Total Deer Hunter Manual and the The Total Bowhunting Manual. F&S Lightning Round Favorite Place to Fish: HomeFavorite Critter to Hunt: Whitetail deer (and turkeys, and ruffed grouse, and…)Bucket List Adventure: Archery moose—anywhereMost Prized Piece of Gear: Ka-Bar stacked-leather hunting knifeAll-Time Favorite F&S Story: Seriously? Well, today it’s: The Elephants of Charisa, by Bob Brister. Ask me again tomorrow. Notable Work
Don’t want to spring for high-class glass? These binos get the job done for less than $350
There’s a lot to be said for subtle presentations and sipping trout. But if you add a little action to your dry-fly drift, they’ll clobber it
A complete guide to choosing the ideal compound bow for your budget, skill, and style of hunting
For the best-tasting venison, use this simple day-by-day timeline for determining how long to hang a deer on the meat pole, in any conditions
These deer guns are cool, classic, and still get the job done. Yet the only way you’re apt to see one at camp is if you bring it.
You got your buck. Way to go. Now follow this illustrated 6-step guide on how to field dress a deer and get it cooling quickly
Honor the animal””and get better meals”‹”””‹by butchering your deer yourself
Our complete guide to shot placement on deer breaks down the best shots, the worst shots, and what gear to use to get your venison
Get your buck when the flakes fall, whether it’s a light flurry or a full-blown blizzard
