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Bushnell Falcon 10x50 Review
A no-nonsense look at the Bushnell Falcon 10x50 binoculars: who they suit, what they deliver, and where they fall short. We compare specs, buyer feedback, and real-world use to help you decide.
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The Bushnell Falcon 10x50 is a budget-friendly, full-size binocular that punches above its price for casual outdoor use. It offers bright, sharp images thanks to its 50mm objective lenses and BK-7 prisms, with a comfortable 7mm exit pupil that suits low-light conditions. However, the build feels plasticky, and the focus wheel can be stiff. It is a solid choice for beginners, hikers, and birdwatchers on a tight budget, but those needing ruggedness or waterproofing should look elsewhere.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Excellent value for the price
- Bright images with good light transmission
- Large 50mm objectives for low-light use
- Generous 7mm exit pupil, comfortable for most adults
- Lightweight for a full-size binocular at 1.4 lbs
- Simple, no-fuss design with easy central focus
- Plastic body feels less durable
- Focus wheel can be stiff and not perfectly smooth
- Not waterproof or fog-proof
- Eye relief is short for eyeglass wearers
- Comes with basic lens caps and neck strap
The Bushnell Falcon 10x50 is a classic budget binocular that has been a staple for beginners and casual users for years. With a price that undercuts most competitors, it promises decent optics without breaking the bank. But does it deliver? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest assessment.
Design and Build Quality
The Falcon 10x50 features a full-size, straight-barrel design with a black rubber-armored plastic body. The armor provides a decent grip, but the plastic chassis feels less robust than metal-bodied binoculars. The focus wheel is located in the center and works adequately, though some users report stiffness. The diopter adjustment is on the right eyepiece, and the eyecups are twist-up, which is a nice touch at this price point. At 1.4 pounds, it is relatively light for a 10x50, making it comfortable for extended use.
The included accessories are basic: a neck strap, lens caps, and a soft carrying case. The lens caps are not tethered, so they can be easily lost. Overall, the build is functional but not premium, which is expected at this price.
Performance and Image Quality
The Falcon 10x50 uses BK-7 prisms and fully coated optics. In daylight, images are bright and sharp, with good color fidelity. The 7mm exit pupil is generous, making it easy to align your eyes with the lenses. The field of view is 315 feet at 1000 yards, which is typical for a 10x50. In low light, the 50mm objectives gather enough light to see clearly at dawn or dusk, though some chromatic aberration is noticeable on high-contrast edges.
For stargazing, you can see the Moon and some bright objects, but the narrow field limits the experience. The image quality is surprisingly good for the price, but it does not match more expensive models like the Nikon Aculon or Celestron Nature DX.
Ease of Use and Handling
The Falcon is straightforward to use. The central focus wheel moves smoothly but requires a bit of force, which can be tiring during prolonged use. The diopter adjustment is easy to set, and the twist-up eyecups are comfortable for most users. However, the short eye relief (12mm) may be a problem for eyeglass wearers, as they may not see the full field of view without pressing the eyecups down.
The binoculars are lightweight and well-balanced, making them easy to hold steady. The rubber armor provides a secure grip, even with gloves. For most casual users, the handling is more than adequate.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning the Falcon is simple. Use a soft brush or lens cloth to remove dust, and a mild cleaning solution for smudges. The rubber armor can be wiped with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the coatings. The binoculars are not waterproof, so keep them dry and store them in the included case when not in use.
Common Buyer Complaints
Many users praise the Falcon for its value, but some complaints recur. The most common issues are the stiff focus wheel, the plastic build, and the lack of waterproofing. Some users also note that the lens caps are flimsy and fall off easily. A few buyers have reported that the diopter adjustment is not precise, but this is less frequent.
Despite these drawbacks, the overwhelming majority of reviews are positive, with many users saying the Falcon exceeds expectations for the price.
Comparison with Alternatives
If you are considering the Falcon, you might also look at the Nikon Aculon A211 10x50, which offers better optical quality and a rubber-armored, more durable body, but at a higher price. The Celestron Nature DX 10x50 is another step up, with waterproofing and fully multi-coated lenses, but it costs significantly more. For a budget option, the Falcon is hard to beat, but if you can stretch your budget, the upgrade is worth it.
Final Verdict
The Bushnell Falcon 10x50 is a solid entry-level binocular that offers great value for money. It is ideal for casual outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and sports events. The optical performance is good for the price, and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry. However, if you need a rugged, waterproof binocular or have specific eye relief requirements, you should consider other options. For most budget-conscious buyers, the Falcon is a reliable choice.
Specs that matter
| Magnification | 10x |
| Objective lens diameter | 50mm |
| Prism type | BK-7 roof prism |
| Exit pupil | 7mm |
| Field of view | 315 feet at 1000 yards |
| Weight | 1.4 lbs (635g) |
You are a casual user who wants a reliable, inexpensive binocular for daytime hikes, sports events, or birdwatching. You don't need waterproofing and can handle a slightly stiff focus wheel.
You need a rugged, waterproof binocular for marine use or extreme conditions. You wear eyeglasses and need long eye relief. You prefer a smooth, precise focus mechanism.
Questions before you buy
Are the Bushnell Falcon 10x50 binoculars good for birdwatching?
Yes, for the price they are quite good. The 10x magnification and 50mm objectives provide bright, clear views in daylight, making it easy to spot birds at a distance. However, the short eye relief (about 12mm) can be a problem if you wear glasses, and the focus wheel may require a bit of effort to fine-tune.
Is the Bushnell Falcon 10x50 waterproof?
No, the Falcon 10x50 is not waterproof or fog-proof. It is designed for dry conditions. If you need a waterproof binocular, consider the Bushnell Legacy WP or the Nikon Aculon series, which offer sealed bodies.
Can I use the Bushnell Falcon 10x50 for stargazing?
Yes, the 50mm objective lenses gather enough light to show the Moon and some bright deep-sky objects like the Pleiades. However, the field of view is narrow, and the plastic build may not be ideal for prolonged use. For serious astronomy, a dedicated pair with larger objectives is better.
What is the eye relief on the Bushnell Falcon 10x50?
The eye relief is approximately 12mm, which is on the shorter side. If you wear glasses, you may not be able to see the full field of view without pressing the eyecups down. Some users roll the eyecups down to get closer, but it's not ideal.
How does the Bushnell Falcon 10x50 compare to the Nikon Aculon A211 10x50?
The Nikon Aculon offers a more refined optical design with aspherical lenses, giving a flatter image and better edge sharpness. It also has a more durable rubber-armored body. However, the Falcon is lighter and significantly cheaper, making it a better budget pick. If you can stretch your budget, the Nikon is worth the extra cost.
