1. Binoculars & Monoculars Telescopes For Sale
  2. sku: 12626836314401602
  3. BUSHNELL 10-6251

BUSHNELL 10-6251 Binocular Cf Kit 6X

10-6251 Bushnell Vtg 1973 Binocular 6x 25 Custom Compact 8 Degree Cf Case Kit

( Brand: Bushnell ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 10-6251 ), ( Model: VINTAGE 1973 CUSTOM COMPACT ), ( Lens Coating: Fully Multi-coated ), ( Size: Compact ), ( Objective Lens Diameter: 25 Mm ), ( Maximum Magnification: 6x ), ( Type: Binoculars ), ( Item Height: 3 In ), ( Features: Lightweight Original Box, Pamphlet, Case Cloth ), ( Optical Design: Porro Prism ), ( Application: General Purpose ), ( Country Of Origin: Japan ), ( Item Width: 4in )

Review BUSHNELL Vtg Binocular 6x Custom Compact Degree Cf Case Kit

The **Bushnell 10-6251 Vintage 1973 Binocular 6x25 CF Kit** is a rare and highly sought-after piece of optical history, embodying the craftsmanship and innovation of mid-20th-century outdoor gear design. This classic model, originally manufactured in 1973, represents Bushnell s early foray into producing durable, high-quality binoculars tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and birdwatchers alike. The **6x25** magnification and objective lens pairing strike an ideal balance between field of view and light-gathering capability, making it well-suited for low-light conditions such as dawn, dusk, or overcast skies a hallmark of Bushnell s engineering during this era. The **CF (Coated Field) lens system** ensures enhanced clarity and reduced glare, a feature that was groundbreaking for its time, allowing users to discern fine details with greater precision than earlier uncoated models.

Constructed with a robust **aluminum body**, the binoculars exude a sturdy, no-nonsense design that reflects the rugged demands of outdoor use. The **porro prism** configuration, a hallmark of vintage binoculars, provides a wider field of view and a more comfortable viewing experience compared to modern roof prism designs, though it does result in a slightly bulkier profile. The **rubber-armored grip** offers a secure, non-slip hold, a practical touch that underscores Bushnell s attention to user ergonomics in an era when many binoculars were still primarily metal or plastic. The **adjustable eyecups** accommodate users with or without glasses, a thoughtful detail that enhances versatility for a broad range of users.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this vintage model is its **retro aesthetic**, complete with a classic **black and silver finish** that evokes a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a timeless appeal. The **metal focus and diopter adjustment knobs** are designed for precision, allowing for fine-tuned focus even at long distances a feature that remains highly functional today. The **hard case** included in the kit, likely original to the 1973 release, is a testament to Bushnell s commitment to protecting their investment, featuring a durable exterior with a padded interior to safeguard the binoculars during transport or storage. This case, paired with the binoculars themselves, completes the **CF Kit**, offering a fully self-contained solution for outdoor adventures.

Beyond its practicality, the **1973 Bushnell 6x25 CF Kit** holds significant collector s value, appealing to both vintage gear enthusiasts and those who appreciate the evolution of optical technology. The **handcrafted quality** of the era from the precision-machined components to the meticulous lens coatings ensures that these binoculars remain surprisingly sharp and reliable, even by modern standards. Whether used for hunting, wildlife observation, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, this binocular is more than just a tool; it is a piece of outdoor heritage, blending functionality with a touch of retro charm. For those who value both performance and history, the **Bushnell 10-6251 Vintage 1973 6x25 CF Kit** stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bushnell s early innovations.

The Bushnell 10-6251 VTG (Vintage) 6x25 CF Kit from 1973 is a classic piece of optical equipment, but its condition, age, and availability of modern alternatives make it a unique purchase. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros:**

1. **Historical Significance and Collectibility**

The Bushnell 6x25 CF Kit from 1973 is a well-known vintage optical instrument, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts of outdoor gear history. Owning a piece of early Bushnell optics can be appealing if you appreciate retro or military-style equipment.

2. **Durability and Build Quality**

Bushnell was (and still is) known for producing rugged, well-built binoculars. The 6x25 model from this era often features a sturdy metal body, which suggests it could withstand rough handling if well-maintained. The compact size (25mm objective lenses) makes it portable and easy to carry.

3. **Classic Design**

The 6x25 CF (Close Focus) model was designed for close-range viewing, making it useful for birdwatching, hunting, or other activities where you need to observe details at shorter distances. The "CF" designation indicates it has a closer focusing distance than standard binoculars, which can be advantageous for specific tasks.

4. **Potential for Restoration and Customization**

If the binoculars are in poor condition, they may be restorable or modifiable by an experienced optician. Some vintage Bushnell models have been successfully refurbished to near-new condition, though this requires expertise and cost.

5. **Affordability (Compared to New Models)**

Vintage Bushnell binoculars are often cheaper than modern high-end models, especially if purchased from a collector or estate sale. This can make them an attractive option on a budget.

6. **Nostalgia Factor**

For those who grew up with or are familiar with Bushnell s legacy, owning a piece from this era can evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to outdoor traditions.

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### **Cons:**

1. **Age-Related Wear and Tear**

The binoculars are nearly 50 years old, which means they may suffer from common issues associated with aging optics:

- **Fogging or internal condensation** due to degraded seals or coatings.

- **Scratched or yellowed lenses**, reducing image clarity and color fidelity.

- **Loose or worn-out internals**, such as focusing mechanisms or eyecups, leading to poor performance.

- **Rust or corrosion** if stored in damp conditions over the years.

2. **Lack of Modern Coatings**

Contemporary binoculars use advanced multi-coatings to enhance light transmission, reduce glare, and improve contrast. Vintage models like this likely lack these coatings, resulting in dimmer images, especially in low-light conditions.

3. **Limited Field of View and Magnification**

The 6x magnification is moderate but not exceptional for modern standards. The 25mm objective lenses provide a narrow field of view, which may feel restrictive compared to larger-aperture binoculars (e.g., 42mm or 50mm). This can make it less versatile for activities like stargazing or observing distant wildlife.

4. **Potential for Misalignment**

Over time, the internal prisms or lenses may shift, causing misalignment and a "double-vision" effect. This is a common issue with older binoculars and often requires professional adjustment or repair.

5. **No Warranty or Customer Support**

As a vintage item, there is no manufacturer warranty or support. If the binoculars fail or require repair, you would need to find a third-party optician, which can be costly and time-consuming.

6. **Ethical and Practical Concerns**

- **Provenance Unknown**: If purchased from a private seller, you cannot be sure of the binoculars' history (e.g., whether they were well-maintained or exposed to harsh conditions).

- **Environmental Impact**: Buying vintage items may not align with sustainability goals, as newer models often incorporate recycled materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.

7. **Limited Use Cases**

While the 6x25 CF is great for close-range viewing, it may not be ideal for long-distance activities like hunting at great ranges or astronomical observation. Modern binoculars offer better low-light performance and higher magnification options.

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### **Conclusion:**

The Bushnell 10-6251 VTG 6x25 CF Kit from 1973 is a fascinating piece of optical history with a strong following among collectors. However, its practical utility today is limited by its age, lack of modern coatings, and potential for mechanical or optical issues. If you are primarily interested in the binoculars for their historical value, nostalgia, or as a conversation piece, they may be worth considering especially if you are prepared to invest time and money in restoring them. On the other hand, if you need reliable, high-performance optics for outdoor activities, modern alternatives (even budget-friendly ones) will almost certainly outperform this vintage model.

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### **Recommendation:** - **Buy if:**

- You are a collector or enthusiast of vintage outdoor gear and are willing to restore or preserve the binoculars.

- You find the binoculars in excellent condition (e.g., professionally cleaned, with no visible damage) and are satisfied with their limited functionality.

- You appreciate the binoculars for their historical significance and are not relying on them for critical tasks.

- **Avoid buying if:**

- You need binoculars for serious outdoor activities (hunting, birdwatching, stargazing) where performance and reliability are paramount.

- You cannot afford or are unwilling to invest in restoration or professional inspection.

- You prioritize modern features like multi-coatings, waterproofing, and ergonomic design.

- **Alternative Options:** If you like the idea of Bushnell binoculars but want something more practical, consider:

- A **modern Bushnell binocular** (e.g., the Bushnell Trophy XT or Legend HD series), which retains the brand s reputation for quality while incorporating contemporary technology.

- A **budget-friendly vintage alternative** from a more recent era (e.g., a 1990s or 2000s model) that may still be in usable condition but with fewer age-related issues.

- A **new compact binocular** (e.g., Celestron Nature DX 8x21 or Vortex Viper HD 8x25) that offers better performance for the price.

Ultimately, the decision depends on whether you value the binoculars as a collectible or a functional tool. For most practical purposes, a newer model would be the smarter choice.

Details:

The binocular comes with its original box, pamphlet, case, and cloth, adding to collectible value practicality for everyday use. This VTG 1973 BUSHNELL Binocular is a compact binocular with fully multi-coated lens for clear and sharp images. Made in Japan, this Bushnell binocular is a classic piece for any optics enthusiast. It features a Porro prism optical design and is lightweight, making it easy to carry around for any outdoor activities.

part #: 106251 prices

  • $54.99-$200.00

specifications binoculamonocul:

  • brand: Bushnell
  • mpn: 10-6251
  • model: Vintage 1973 Custom Compact
  • lens coating: Fully Multi-coated
  • size: Compact
  • objective lens diameter: 25 Mm
  • maximum magnification: 6x
  • type: Binoculars
  • item height: 3 In
  • features: Lightweight Original Box, Pamphlet, Case Cloth
  • optical design: Porro Prism
  • application: General Purpose
  • country of origin: Japan
  • item width: 4in

returns binoculamonocul:

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offer binoculamonocul:

  • best offers: True
  • quantity: 1
  • availability: In Stock
  • started: March 1, 2026
  • sold: 0
  • options: Ship-to-home

seller binoculamonocul:

  • rating: 99.8%
  • city: Spicewood, Texas
  • # reviews: 512

general binoculamonocul:

  • condition: Used
  • Cameras Photo > Binoculars Telescopes > Binoculars Monoculars

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  • service: USPS Ground Advantage
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lens coating: fully multi-coated, size: compact, objective lens diameter: 25 mm, maximum magnification: 6x, type: binoculars, item height: 3 in, features: lightweight original box, pamphlet, case cloth, optical design: porro prism, application: general purpose, country of origin: japan, item width: 4in,
category: camera & photo > cameras photo > binoculars telescopes > binoculars monoculars, sku: 12626836314401602,
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2 offers $54.99–$200.00 USD
  • Used. Offer #1 priced at $54.99 + $9.76 shipping estimate = $64.75* total. +$9.76 shipping
  • Used. Offer #2 priced at $200.00 + $14.46 shipping estimate = $214.46* total. +$14.46 shipping

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