Bushnell R-Series Binoculars – Shot Show 2025

At the 2025 SHOT Show, I had the pleasure of meeting Carlos Lozano, Senior Brand Manager at Bushnell, who introduced me to their latest R-Series binoculars, specifically the R3 and R5 models. These binoculars are designed to meet the demands of whitetail hunters (but in my opinion should not just be limited to hunting), offering durability and clarity in the field and two of the main price points:

R3 Binoculars: Essential Clarity

The R3 binoculars are no-nonsense instruments built for hunters and general nature observers looking to have a reliable binocular with a decent performance but at an affordable price level.

They do come with features like fully multi-coated optics and BaK-4 prism glass (but are not phase corrected and probably have aluminium or maybe silver mirror coatings), thus offering a dependable light transmission (80%), but at a price point to suit those on a tighter budget.

The instrument is tripod adaptable, has a robust construction is fully waterproof (IPX7 rated) and is designed to withstand rugged use, so you won’t be let down in challenging conditions.

R5 Binoculars: Enhanced Vision

For those desiring enhanced performance, but still at a reasonably affordable price point, the R5 binoculars have all the features of the R3, but then go a little further by offering several more advanced features:

So in addition to fully multi-coated optics, they are equipped with more advanced prism coatings (They are phase-corrected and have dielectric mirror coatings) that minimize light loss (88% light transmission) and distortion, delivering vivid colors and sharp views in various lighting conditions.

Like the R3, the R5 has an IPX7 waterproof rating and durable build ensures it can handle harsh environments, providing the clarity and detail necessary for successful hunts.

Shared Features Across the R-Series

Both the R3 and R5 models are coated with Bushnell’s proprietary EXO Barrier, which repels water, oil, dust, and debris, ensuring clear vision even in adverse weather conditions. They are also engineered with IPX7 waterproofing, allowing them to withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. Bushnell stands behind the durability of these binoculars with an unconditional lifetime warranty exclusive to the R-Series.

Choosing the Right Configuration

The R-Series offers various configurations to suit different hunting needs:

• 8x42 (R3 & R5): Provides a wide field of view and versatility.
• 10x42 (R3 & R5): Offers enhanced detail and clarity.
• 12x50 (R5 Only): Ideal for long-range observation.

Each configuration ensures reliable performance, helping hunters spot and track their game effectively.

So, to sum up, whilst the Bushnell R-Series binoculars were specifically designed to provide hunters with durable and clear optics tailored to their specific needs and are marketed as such, there is no reason you can’t also use these optics in many other areas. This would include general nature observation and even birding.

Cost & Where to Buy

R3 Series: The R3 binoculars feature fully multi-coated optics, BaK-4 prism glass to ensure dependable light transmission, providing clear views from dusk to dawn. Built to withstand rugged use, the R3 series also has features like toughened EXO barrier coatings and are fully waterproof is ideal for spotting and tracking wildlife in challenging conditions.

• Check Current Prices:
  R3 8x42 Binocular: Priced at $99.95. R3 10x42 Binocular: Also priced at $99.95.

R5 Series: at a higher price point, the Bushnell R5 binoculars come with fully multi-coated optics and advanced prism coatings to deliver superior clarity. The robust construction ensures durability in harsh environments, making them ideal for whitetail hunting and other demanding outdoor activities.

The R5 series offers the following configurations:

• Check Current Prices
  R5 8x42 Binocular: Priced at $229.95. R5 10x42 Binocular: Priced at $239.95. R5 12x50 Binocular: Priced at $269.95.

Further Reading & More Details

• About Bushnell Binoculars
• All Bushnell Binocular Reviews on BBR