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Wildlife Gear

Ireland’s Wildlife gear reviews offer independent objective reviews of the latest wildlife and birding optics, outdoor clothing, wildlife photography equipment and accessories (including cameras, lenses, remote cameras, tripods, etc), wildlife observation gear (hides, camo gear, etc.) and more.

Vortex Razor HD 27-60×85 Spotting Scope Review

A Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scop looking out over the Irish coast

Pros: Bright, sharp, high-contrast image that delivers plenty of detail at lower magnifications across a wide range of conditions. Large objective lens pulls in plenty of light through twilight and beyond, focus ring integrated into scope body is quick and accurate. Reasonably compact for a full-size scope. Excellent build quality….

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×32 Binocular Review

A person reviewing the Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10x32 binoculars.

Pros: Fantastic edge-to-edge image quality, sublime ergonomics, great low-light performance and a field of view to rival many 8x binoculars, coupled with outstanding build quality — the NL Pure 10×32 is an exceptional binocular up there with the very best. Cons: While they are svelte, the barrels on the NL Pure are….

Vortex Razor UHD 10×42 Binocular Review

Vortex Razor UHD Binocular Review by Ireland's Wildlife

Pros: Superb image quality that lives up the name. Exceptionally bright, pin-sharp image across the wide field of view. Smooth, accurate focus and outstanding build quality rounds off what is a very accomplished binocular that holds its own with the best on the market. Cons: A little on the large side for….

Vanguard VEO HD 2 8×42 Binocular Review

Vanguard VEO HD Birding and Wildlife Binocular

Pros: High quality optics that deliver premium features and a high-performance viewing experience at a reasonable price point. Sharp, contrasty image impresses in a range of challenging viewing conditions. Bright, vivid colours that make the image “pop”. Cons: Twist up eyecups are plastic, rather than metal, Vanguard Warranty dropped from….

Review: Hawke Frontier APO 10×42 Binocular

Hawke’s Frontier APO is the new flagship binocular model from a brand with a reputation for offering the best value for money in the business. With a host of premium features, at a price-point that undercuts market leaders by a significant margin, we find out how Hawke’s new top-of-the-range birding….

German Precision Optics (GPO) Passion HD 10×42 Binocular Review

The GPO Passion HD 10x42 Binocular reviewed by Ireland's Wildlife

Pros: Premium quality build and high-end features combined with outstanding optics at a lower price point than most top binocular brands. Image is pin sharp and contrasty across the wide field of view, and colours pop, yet still appear natural and neutral, with no obvious colour cast. Cons: Feels a….

Woodstone® Seville 28mm Nest box Review

Pros: Innovative design using robust high-insulating material. Easy access for cleaning. Available in a wide range of styles, colours and designs. 10 year guarantee. Cons: A little on the heavy side… although once in situ that’s not really an issue and the weight actually makes the box more stable. Not….

Sofirn SC31 Pro LED Torch Review

200m throw SC31Pro from Sofirn

Pros: High-performance compact rechargeable LED torch. Variable light output and versatile functions. Convenient integrated USB C charging of 18650 Lithium Ion battery (included). Cons: Can get hot in Turbo mode. “Anduril” user interface can be a bit of a handful to access more advanced features. The Sofirn SC31 Pro is….

Doogee S96 Pro: an ideal rugged smartphone for outdoor enthusiasts

Doogee S96Pro Rugged Smartphone Review

Pros: great spec, performance and battery life for the money in a phone that’s built to survive more extreme conditions than you can. The Doogee S96 Pro will take all the punishment you throw at it and emerge unscathed, offering surprising peace of mind. Cons: screen resolution lower than most….

Regatta Rivington Mens Wellington Review

Wearing the Regatta Rivington Wellington Boots

Pros: Great all-round wellington boot that’s comfortable and functional. Adjustable girth via quick-release buckle is convenient and effective. Roomy enough for decent welly socks. Heavy duty, grippy soles great when you venture off-road. Cons: Neoprene lining a bit on the thin side, which feels less “premium” than other boots in….

Sofirn IF25A LED Torch Review

The scary Anduril UI flowchart

Pros: Super bright and compact. Massive versatility in light output and functions. Extremely lightweight and portable for a light this powerful. Great battery life. USB C in body charging for the included 21700 Lithium Ion battery. Cons: Heats up quickly at highest output level (built in thermoregulation safety feature kicks….

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×42 Binocular Review

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10x42 Binocular Review

Pros: The best binocular I have ever used: period. Exquisite ergonomics, incredible image clarity across the field of view… and what a field of view. The NL Pure takes immersive viewing to a whole new level. Cons: Slight detectable seam in the rubber armour where it meets on the inside of the….