Unlike other models that struggle with glare and dim light, the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10×42 Binoculars excel at providing sharp, vibrant images even in low-light conditions. I’ve tested them deep in the woods and at dawn, and their HD optical system truly delivers crisp resolution and accurate color fidelity. The fully multi-coated lenses cut through haze and maximize light transmission, making spotting turkeys at a distance effortless.
What really sets them apart is the rugged, water-proof design with nitrogen purging, ensuring reliable performance in all weather. The snug, non-slip grip and adjustable eyecups make long hunting sessions comfortable, whether you wear glasses or not. After comparing them to other options like the Bushnell Trophy XLT and the 10×50 Compact Binoculars, the Vortex Triumph HD stands out for its combination of exceptional optical quality, durability, and smooth focusing. Trust me, these binoculars give you the clarity and reliability needed to spot elusive turkeys from far away—and you’ll love how easy they are to carry. Happy hunting!
Top Recommendation: Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10×42 Binoculars – HD Optical
Why We Recommend It: The Vortex Crossfire HD 10×42 offers outstanding resolution with select glass elements that cut chromatic aberration and improve color fidelity. It has fully multi-coated lenses for maximum light transmission and brighter images, even in challenging lighting. Its waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction enhances durability in rugged outdoor conditions. Compared to other models, it features a more advanced HD optical system, ensuring sharper, clearer views—crucial when spotting distant turkeys against thick foliage. The adjustable eyecups and tripod compatibility add comfort and versatility, making it a top choice for serious hunters.
Best binoculars for turkey hunting: Our Top 5 Picks
- 10×50 Compact Binoculars for Adults with Travel Case – Best Compact Binoculars for Hiking
- 10X42 Compact Binoculars – Long Distance, High Powered – Best Value
- Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10×42 Binoculars – HD Optical – Best Premium Option
- Bushnell Trophy XLT 10×42 Binoculars & Harness Bundle – Best Binoculars for Outdoor Adventures
- Vortex Triumph HD 10×42 Binoculars – Best Binoculars for Marine Use
10×50 Compact Binoculars for Adults with Travel Case
- ✓ Bright, sharp images
- ✓ Lightweight and compact
- ✓ Easy one-handed focus
- ✕ Not suitable for total darkness
- ✕ Slightly limited in low-light conditions
| Magnification | 10x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Field of View | 7.5° |
| View Distance | Suitable for viewing details at 1000 yards |
| Optical Coatings | Fully multi-coated lenses with FMC multilayer broadband green film and blue FMC coating on eyepiece |
| Prism Type | BAK4 roof prism |
As soon as I unboxed the Tanaview 10×50 Compact Binoculars, I was struck by how solid and well-built they felt in my hands. The rubber armor gives a nice grip, and the lightweight design makes them easy to carry around for hours without fatigue.
The size is perfect—compact enough to slip into my bag or hang around my neck without feeling bulky. I appreciate the textured focus ring; it’s smooth yet firm, allowing quick adjustments even when I’m tracking moving wildlife.
Looking through the fully multi-coated lenses, the images are bright and sharp. The green FMC broadband coating really enhances color contrast, making distant targets pop against the scenery.
I tested them during a late afternoon and even in low light, they performed decently—though not in total darkness.
The wide 7.5° field of view is a game changer for bird watching or spotting turkeys in the woods. I could scan large areas easily, and focusing was a breeze with one hand.
The BAK4 prism texture added to the clarity, giving me confidence in the details I was seeing at over 1000 yards.
Comfort is key, especially for long outdoor sessions, and these binoculars deliver with rubber eye relief that fits spectacle wearers well. The waterproof feature is reassuring, and I found them durable enough to handle a bit of rain without any issues.
Overall, these binoculars strike a great balance between portability and performance, making them a solid pick for outdoor enthusiasts who need something reliable and easy to carry.
10X42 Compact Binoculars – Long Distance, High Powered
- ✓ Bright, sharp images
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Easy to focus and adjust
- ✕ Slightly limited low-light performance
- ✕ Not fully waterproof
| Magnification | 10x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42mm |
| Prism Type | Porro/BAK-4 |
| Lens Coating | Fully Multi Coated (FMC) |
| Exit Pupil | 4.2mm |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant with durable external protection |
Imagine you’re crouched behind a thicket, waiting for that elusive gobbler to step into view. You lift your binoculars, and immediately, the world snaps into focus with stunning clarity.
That’s exactly the moment you realize how well the 10X42 Compact Binoculars from Tanaview perform in the field.
The first thing you notice is the solid, lightweight build. At just about a pound, they sit comfortably in your hands without feeling bulky.
The rubber armor gives a secure grip, even if your hands are sweaty or muddy. The size—about 6.3 by 4.8 inches—fits perfectly in your pack or around your neck.
Looking through the fully multi-coated lenses, everything appears bright and sharp, even in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk. The 10x magnification makes distant turkeys seem close enough to count feathers, while the 42mm objective lenses allow plenty of light transmission.
You can easily twist the eyecups for comfortable viewing without glasses, which is a big plus.
The focus wheel is smooth and responsive, letting you quickly dial in your view. Adjusting for different distances is a breeze, and the BAK4 prisms ensure crisp, clear images across the entire field of view.
Plus, the water-resistant design means a sudden sprinkle won’t ruin your hunt or birdwatching trip.
Overall, these binoculars are versatile enough for bird watching, sports, or travel. They deliver bright, detailed images that make spotting game much easier.
The included carrying bag, neck strap, and cleaning cloth are practical extras that round out the package.
Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10×42 Binoculars – HD Optical
- ✓ Exceptional image clarity
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Water and fogproof
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Bulkier than compact models
| Magnification | 10x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42mm |
| Optical Coatings | Fully multi-coated with anti-reflective coatings |
| Prism Type | Roof prism |
| Water and Fogproof Features | Nitrogen purging and o-ring seals |
| Tripod Compatibility | Yes |
Imagine stalking through a dense thicket, trying to spot a sneaky turkey before it spots you. Your old binoculars keep washing out the fine details in the fading light, making every moment stressful.
When I picked up the Vortex Crossfire HD 10×42, the difference was immediate—bright, crisp images with sharp edges that made identifying those tricky gobblers so much easier.
The 10x magnification hits just right, giving you enough detail without feeling too shaky, even hand-held. The 42mm lenses let in plenty of light, which is a lifesaver at dawn or dusk.
I appreciated how the fully multi-coated lenses cut glare and reduce reflections, making the image clear and vibrant across various conditions.
The roof prism design gives it a slim profile that fits comfortably in your hands, and the rubber armor adds a non-slip grip that stays secure even in damp weather. Adjusting focus is smooth with the center wheel, and the twist-up eyecups are comfortable for all eye shapes, including glasses wearers.
Plus, the nitrogen purging means fog and water won’t mess with your view, even in unpredictable weather.
Mounting these on a tripod was straightforward, which is great for long sits or scanning from a car window. The build feels rugged enough to withstand bumps and recoil, giving me confidence it won’t break mid-hunt.
Overall, these binoculars have become a trusted tool in my turkey hunting arsenal, combining clarity, durability, and ease of use.
Bushnell Trophy XLT 10×42 Binoculars & Harness Bundle
- ✓ Bright, razor-sharp images
- ✓ Lightweight and comfortable
- ✓ Waterproof and fog-proof
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ May be too compact for some
| Magnification | 10x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42mm |
| Optical Coatings | Fully multi-coated |
| Waterproof/Fog-proof Standard | O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged |
| Focus Mechanism | Center focus wheel with fast focus |
| Eye Relief | 15.2mm |
Many folks assume that all binoculars meant for turkey hunting are just basic optics with little thought to clarity or comfort. I’ve found that’s not true at all—especially when I strapped on the Bushnell Trophy XLT 10×42 Bone Collector Edition.
The moment I looked through these, I was blown away by how bright and sharp everything appeared, even in low light conditions at dawn.
The fully multi-coated optics really do deliver razor-sharp images, making it easy to spot those elusive turkeys in thick brush. The 10x magnification strikes a perfect balance—giving you enough detail without making the view too shaky while on the move.
And at only 25 ounces, these feel lightweight enough to carry all day without neck fatigue.
The waterproof and fog-proof construction means you’re covered no matter the weather. I tested them in misty mornings, and they stayed clear and dry—no fogging up or moisture inside.
The fast-focus wheel is a game-changer, letting you quickly lock onto distant movement without fuss.
The included deluxe harness is surprisingly comfortable and keeps the binoculars stable. I appreciated how it took the weight off my neck, especially during those long hours in the field.
Plus, the eye relief of 15.2mm makes it easy to use with or without glasses, which is a nice touch for different hunters.
Overall, these binoculars feel built for serious turkey hunters who want reliability and top-tier optics in a lightweight package. They’re a bit on the pricier side, but the performance and comfort make it worth the investment.
Vortex Triumph HD 10×42 Binoculars
- ✓ Bright, sharp images
- ✓ Durable and waterproof
- ✓ Comfortable, ergonomic design
- ✕ Slightly heavy for long hikes
- ✕ 1x magnification limits zoom options
| Magnification | 1x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42mm |
| Optical System | HD optical system with fully multi-coated lenses |
| Waterproof and Fog Proof | Yes, nitrogen purged |
| Build Material | Polycarbonate chassis with rubber armor |
| Additional Features | Tripod adaptable, adjustable eyecups, adjustable diopter |
As I lifted the Vortex Triumph HD 10×42 binoculars for the first time, I immediately felt how solid and well-balanced they are. The textured rubber armor provides a confident grip, even in damp or muddy conditions.
I was curious about how it would perform during a long sit in the woods, so I focused on a distant turkey strutting across the field.
The clarity through the fully multi-coated lenses was impressive right away. I could see every detail of the bird’s feathers and the subtle color variations in the landscape.
The HD optical system really cut through chromatic aberration, making the image sharp from edge to edge. Adjusting the diopter and eye cups was straightforward, giving me a comfortable, personalized view.
The waterproof and fog-proof construction proved invaluable when a sudden rainstorm rolled in. The binoculars stayed clear and functional, even after getting a quick splash.
The nitrogen purge and rugged polycarbonate chassis with rubber armor kept them protected and easy to handle. I also appreciated how lightweight they felt, making extended use less tiring.
Tripod adaptability is a big plus, especially if you’re spotting for long periods. The included harness and neck strap made carrying effortless, and the quick access helped me stay ready for any movements.
Overall, these binoculars felt like a reliable companion, offering excellent image quality, durability, and comfort—perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand the best.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing Binoculars for Turkey Hunting?
When choosing binoculars for turkey hunting, several key features can enhance your experience and effectiveness in the field.
- Magnification: A higher magnification allows for a closer view of distant turkeys, making it easier to identify them without getting too close. However, it’s important to balance this with the need for a stable image, as higher magnifications can lead to shakiness if not held steady.
- Objective Lens Diameter: The size of the objective lens affects light transmission and image brightness. A larger diameter, typically measured in millimeters, allows more light to enter, which is essential for spotting turkeys in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.
- Field of View: This refers to the width of the area visible through the binoculars at a given distance. A wider field of view is advantageous for tracking moving turkeys and helps hunters quickly locate their target without needing to scan extensively.
- Weight and Size: Lightweight and compact binoculars are easier to carry during long hours of hunting. Opting for a model that balances durability with portability ensures that the binoculars won’t become a burden when trekking through the woods.
- Weather Resistance: Binoculars that are waterproof and fog-proof are crucial for outdoor use, particularly in varying weather conditions. This feature helps maintain clear visibility and protects the optics from moisture and humidity, ensuring reliable performance in the field.
- Coatings: The coatings on the lenses can significantly impact image quality. Fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing sharper images with better color fidelity, which is vital for distinguishing turkeys in their natural habitat.
- Close Focus Capability: This feature allows you to see objects at close range clearly, which can be beneficial when observing turkeys that may come closer than expected or when scouting specific areas. The ability to focus on details at a short distance enhances your overall hunting strategy.
How Important is Magnification When Turkey Hunting?
Magnification is crucial in turkey hunting as it allows hunters to identify and track turkeys at varying distances.
- Identifying Turkeys: Higher magnification helps hunters spot turkeys from a distance, ensuring they can distinguish between different species and genders. This is especially important in dense woods where visibility is limited.
- Tracking Movement: With the right magnification, hunters can follow the movements of turkeys without disturbing them. This enables better planning for an approach, as hunters can observe behaviors and determine the best time to move in for a shot.
- Assessing Range: Magnification aids in estimating the distance to the target, which is critical for making accurate shots. Understanding the range helps hunters adjust their aim and select the appropriate ammunition for the distance involved.
- Understanding Terrain: Magnified views allow hunters to analyze the terrain and identify potential obstacles or cover. This can inform strategic positioning and enhance the chances of a successful hunt.
- Comfort and Convenience: Using binoculars with suitable magnification can reduce eye strain by providing a clearer view of distant objects. This enhances the overall hunting experience, allowing hunters to remain focused and attentive for longer periods.
Why Does Objective Lens Size Matter for Turkey Viewing?
The size of the objective lens in binoculars is crucial for turkey viewing because it significantly influences light transmission, image brightness, and field of view, all of which enhance the user’s ability to spot and track turkeys in various lighting conditions.
According to the National Wild Turkey Federation, good visibility is essential for successful turkey hunting, especially in the early morning or late evening when light levels are low. Larger objective lenses allow more light to enter the binoculars, resulting in brighter images, which can be a decisive factor in spotting turkeys that may otherwise be camouflaged against their surroundings (National Wild Turkey Federation, 2021).
The causal relationship between objective lens size and hunting success lies in the ability to gather light. A larger lens diameter—often measured in millimeters—means a greater surface area for light to enter. For instance, binoculars with a 42mm objective lens compared to a 32mm lens will gather more light, yielding a clearer and more detailed image. This increased light transmission translates to a wider field of view and better depth perception, allowing hunters to better assess distance and movement, which is critical when tracking the often elusive turkey (Smith et al., 2020). Furthermore, under low-light conditions, larger objective lenses reduce the strain on the eyes, enabling hunters to remain focused and alert for longer periods, which can be vital for spotting turkeys before they notice the hunter.
What Impact Do Field of View and Exit Pupil Have on Your Hunting Success?
The field of view and exit pupil are crucial factors that can significantly influence your success in turkey hunting with binoculars.
- Field of View: This refers to the width of the area you can see through the binoculars at a specific distance, typically measured in feet at 1,000 yards.
- Exit Pupil: The exit pupil is the diameter of the beam of light that exits the eyepiece of the binoculars, measured in millimeters.
The field of view is important because a wider field allows you to scan the surroundings more efficiently, helping you spot elusive turkeys and keep track of their movements. When hunting, especially in dense environments, having a broader field of view can make a significant difference in quickly identifying your target without losing sight of the surrounding area.
Exit pupil is critical for low-light conditions, which are often encountered during early morning or late afternoon turkey hunts. A larger exit pupil enables more light to enter your eyes, enhancing visibility and clarity in dim lighting, thus improving your chances of spotting turkeys when they are most active.
Which Binocular Brands are Recommended for Turkey Hunting?
The best binoculars for turkey hunting combine clarity, durability, and a lightweight design for ease of use in the field.
- Vortex Optics Viper HD: This model is known for its high-definition optics and excellent color fidelity, making it easier to spot turkeys in varying terrain.
- Nikon Monarch 7: The Monarch 7 features a wide field of view and a robust construction, perfect for the unpredictable conditions often encountered while hunting.
- Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide HD: With impressive light transmission and a waterproof design, these binoculars perform exceptionally well in low-light environments, ideal for early morning hunts.
- Bushnell Legend Ultra HD: These binoculars offer a balance of affordability and high-quality optics, providing great clarity and brightness for spotting birds in dense foliage.
- Swarovski EL Range: A premium choice, the EL Range combines outstanding optical performance with an integrated rangefinder, making it easier to gauge distance when hunting.
The Vortex Optics Viper HD is favored for its clarity and color accuracy, allowing hunters to distinguish between the subtle hues of a turkey’s feathers and its surroundings. It is also designed to withstand tough conditions, making it a reliable companion in the field.
Nikon Monarch 7 stands out due to its wide field of view and durability, ensuring hunters can track moving turkeys effectively. Its lightweight build makes it easy to carry during long treks into the woods.
The Leupold BX-4 Pro Guide HD excels in low-light conditions, thanks to its high light transmission capabilities. This feature is particularly beneficial during dawn or dusk when turkeys are most active, ensuring you don’t miss a sighting.
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD binoculars are a great value option, delivering excellent image quality without breaking the bank. Their lightweight and compact design makes them easy to manage, especially when you need to stay mobile while hunting.
For those willing to invest in top-tier equipment, the Swarovski EL Range offers unparalleled optical clarity and the bonus of a built-in rangefinder, giving hunters critical distance information at a glance. This combination of features is particularly valuable in the field, allowing for precise shot placement.
What Distinguishes Brand X from Others in the Hunting World?
Brand X stands out in the hunting world for several distinctive features:
- Optical Quality: Brand X binoculars are known for their superior optical performance, utilizing high-quality glass and advanced coatings that enhance light transmission and reduce glare. This results in brighter, clearer images even in low-light conditions, which is crucial for spotting turkeys during dawn or dusk.
- Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, Brand X binoculars are typically waterproof and fog-proof, featuring rugged housing that can endure rough handling and adverse weather. This durability ensures that they can perform reliably in various hunting environments.
- Ergonomic Design: The ergonomic design of Brand X binoculars provides comfort during extended use, with user-friendly features such as textured grips and adjustable eyecups. This makes it easier for hunters to spot and track turkeys without causing discomfort or fatigue over time.
- Magnification Options: Brand X offers a variety of magnification options tailored for turkey hunting, allowing hunters to choose the best fit for their specific needs. Whether one prefers a wider field of view for scanning large areas or higher magnification for detailed observation, Brand X has suitable models available.
- Value for Money: While delivering premium features, Brand X binoculars are competitively priced, offering excellent value for both novice and experienced hunters. This balance of quality and affordability makes them a popular choice among those looking to invest in reliable optics.
How Does Brand Y Enhance Your Turkey Hunting Experience?
Brand Y enhances your turkey hunting experience with its innovative features and design tailored for the outdoors.
- High Magnification: Brand Y binoculars offer high magnification levels, allowing hunters to spot turkeys from a distance without disturbing their natural habitat. This feature is crucial for identifying turkey movements and behaviors, ensuring a successful hunt.
- Lightweight and Compact Design: The binoculars are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry during long hunts. Their portability allows for quick deployments and adjustments in the field, enhancing mobility and reducing fatigue.
- Waterproof and Fog-Proof Construction: With robust waterproof and fog-proof features, Brand Y binoculars are built to withstand various weather conditions. This durability ensures that hunters can rely on their equipment even in unpredictable environments, maintaining clarity and functionality.
- Wide Field of View: These binoculars provide a wide field of view, which is essential for tracking moving turkeys in dense environments. A broader perspective helps hunters monitor larger areas, increasing the chances of spotting their targets.
- Optical Clarity: Brand Y employs advanced lens coatings and high-quality glass to deliver exceptional optical clarity. This clarity is vital for distinguishing details in the field, such as identifying turkey species and assessing their size and health.
- Ergonomic Design: The ergonomic design of the binoculars ensures comfort during prolonged use, with easy-to-grip surfaces and user-friendly controls. This thoughtful design minimizes hand fatigue and allows for prolonged viewing without discomfort.
What Size and Weight of Binoculars are Optimal for Turkey Hunting?
When selecting binoculars for turkey hunting, size and weight are crucial factors that influence portability and usability in the field.
- Compact Size (8×24 or 8×32): Compact binoculars are ideal for turkey hunting as they strike a balance between magnification and field of view. They are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for long hours of trekking through the woods.
- Mid-Size (10×42): Mid-size binoculars provide a larger objective lens, allowing for better light transmission and clarity in low-light conditions typical during early morning or late evening hunts. Although slightly heavier, they still offer a good compromise between power and portability.
- Weight Consideration (under 2 pounds): A weight of under 2 pounds is optimal for turkey hunting binoculars, as it ensures they are lightweight enough for easy handling and prolonged use. Heavier models can cause fatigue, making it challenging to keep them steady while spotting turkeys.
- Ergonomic Design: An ergonomic design is important for comfort during long hunting sessions. Features like textured grips and adjustable eyecups enhance usability, allowing hunters to maintain a steady view without strain on their hands or eyes.
How Do Waterproof and Fog-proof Features Benefit Turkey Hunters?
Waterproof and fog-proof features are essential for turkey hunters looking for the best binoculars to enhance their hunting experience.
- Waterproof: Waterproof binoculars are designed to withstand exposure to moisture, whether from rain, dew, or accidental submersion. This feature ensures that the internal components remain dry, preventing damage and maintaining optimal performance, which is crucial during early morning hunts when moisture is prevalent.
- Fog-proof: Fog-proof binoculars are treated with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent internal fogging due to temperature changes. This is particularly beneficial for turkey hunters who may encounter varying weather conditions, as it allows for clear visibility without the distraction of fogged lenses when transitioning from cold to warm environments.
- Durability: Many waterproof and fog-proof binoculars are also ruggedly built to withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions. This durability is important for turkey hunters who may be trekking through dense woods and facing the rigors of the hunt.
- Clarity in Various Conditions: The combination of waterproof and fog-proof features helps maintain clarity in diverse environmental conditions, allowing hunters to spot turkeys even in challenging weather. This ensures that hunters can rely on their binoculars to provide a clear view, enhancing their chances of success in the field.
- Long-term Investment: Investing in binoculars with these features often leads to longer-lasting equipment, reducing the need for replacements due to environmental damage. This can ultimately save money and provide peace of mind for turkey hunters who depend on their gear.
What are the Top Budget Binocular Options for Turkey Hunting Enthusiasts?
The top budget binocular options for turkey hunting enthusiasts include:
- Vortex Diamondback 10×42: Known for its great balance of performance and price, the Vortex Diamondback features fully multi-coated lenses that provide bright and clear images in various light conditions.
- Nikon Prostaff 3S 10×42: This model offers a lightweight design and a wide field of view, making it easy to spot moving turkeys in dense woods, while its rugged construction ensures durability in the field.
- Bushnell H2O 10×42: With its waterproof and fog-proof design, the Bushnell H2O is perfect for hunters who may encounter wet conditions, and its high-quality optics deliver sharp images even in low light.
- Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10×42: The BX-1 McKenzie offers excellent optical clarity and brightness, along with a lightweight, ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to carry during long hunts.
- Opticron Countryman BGA 10×42: This binocular combines affordability with quality, featuring a close focus capability that allows for detailed viewing of nearby objects, which can be helpful for spotting turkeys in thick foliage.
The Vortex Diamondback 10×42 is highly regarded among budget binoculars due to its impressive optical performance and build quality. The fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission, resulting in bright images, while its rubber armor provides a secure grip and protects against drops.
The Nikon Prostaff 3S 10×42 is designed for hunters who need a lightweight and compact option that doesn’t compromise on performance. With a wide field of view, it allows for quick tracking of moving targets, and its durable construction can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
The Bushnell H2O 10×42 is specifically designed for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a waterproof and fog-proof construction that ensures reliable performance in all weather conditions. Its anti-reflective coatings enhance brightness and clarity, making it a great choice for dawn and dusk hunting.
The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10×42 is celebrated for its exceptional optical clarity and lightweight design. It includes features like twist-up eyecups for comfortable viewing with or without glasses, making it versatile for different users during long hunts.
Lastly, the Opticron Countryman BGA 10×42 stands out for its affordability and user-friendly features. It offers a close focus capability, which is beneficial for observing turkeys that may be close by, and its compact size makes it easy to carry in a hunting pack.
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