10 Best Compact Binoculars – Everything You Need to Know

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Best Compact Binoculars

Zeiss Terra ED Compact Grey-Black Binocular: Best Overall

premium pick
CELESTRON NATURE DX COMPACT BINOCULAR

Celestron Nature DX Compact Binocular: Best for Adventures

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BUSHNELL LEGEND ULTRA HD COMPACT H BINOCULAR

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Compact H2O Binocular: Best Waterproof Binocular

Having a clear vision is one of the most extraordinary things you can ever aim to achieve. There are some things the naked eye can see; there are also things it cannot. For instance, you cannot see things that are far off clearly because the eyes were not designed to enhance that much visibility. However, with the help of lenses, it is possible to view things from miles away.

Compact Binoculars are excellent devices with lenses, which are suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, etc. These lenses have good optics, a field of view, and magnification to make sure you can see things that are distance away without stress. They are quite handy, so you wouldn’t have to worry about holding them wherever you go.

Unfortunately, there are lots of compact binoculars available, but a few of them only makes the mark. It is for this purpose that this guide of the 10 best compact binoculars was brought forward. Here, you will discover the most awesome binoculars on the market, and how to choose what is most suitable to use for you.

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Best Compact Binoculars - Top 10 Reviews

1

Zeiss Terra ED Compact Grey-Black Binocular: Best Overall

Zeiss is one of the best brands known for producing high-quality compact binoculars for different outdoor purposes. Zerra TD Compact Binocular is a top-selling product due to the quality of its materials, design, and outstanding performance.

This compact binocular is made of Aluminum; thus, durability is guaranteed. Also, the material makes it scratch-resistant and waterproof. With a 100ATM water resistance, it is an excellent choice under extreme conditions. Besides, on the outside, it has a ZEISS MC coating for toughness and maximum longevity.

Zeiss Tera ED Compact Binocular is about 310g in weight; hence, it is lightweight and portable. As regards the field of view, this 8X25 binocular offers a high precision view of the details around (1000m to 199m) and produces razor-sharp images.

Additionally, the folding design of this binocular is a unique feature that makes it one of the selectable choices for birding, hunting, hiking, and even traveling.

Key Features:

  • Aluminum Material
  • Waterproof Body
  • Folding Design
  • 310g Weight
  • 1000m – 199m Field of View
  • Hydrophobic ZEISS MC Coating

Specification:

  • Brand name: Zeiss
  • Size: 8X25
  • Color: Grey-Black
Pros
  • One of the best versatile binoculars as it fits into any active lifestyle
  • Highly durable and reliable
  • Delivers razor-sharp images of objects distance away
  • Offers a high optical precision with a good field of view
  • Lightweight and portable
  • A reliable companion in extreme conditions
  • Compact in design
  • Comes with a 2-year guarantee
Cons
  • Delivered misaligned most times

2

Celestron Nature DX Compact Binocular: Best for Adventures

Are you planning to go on an adventure? Celestron Nature DX Compact Binocular is an incredible choice from a long list of options. This binocular has one of the highest resolutions due to its Bak-4 Porro Prism and ability to enhance brighter images and more contrast.

Celestron Nature DX Compact Binocular is waterproof and fogproof; thus, it makes an excellent choice for extreme weather. Since it is a midsized-compact binocular, it is premium built with protective features, such as a carrying case, rubber-armored polycarbonate housing, and so on.

This 8X32 binocular has a 6.5ft. Close Focus, 388ft. Field of View, and a 17.5mm Eye Relief for an excellent performance. The eyecups are twist-up and comfortable for people who wear glasses and do not, find it easy to use. Other features such as an instruction manual, lens cloth, neck strap can be found in the package.

Overall, it is binocular built for the price.

Key Features:

  • Waterproof
  • 17.5mm Eye Relief
  • Porro Prism
  • 6.5 ft. Close Focus
  • Neck Strap
  • Lens Cloth
  • Fugproof/Waterproof
  • Rubber-armored Polycarbonate Housing
  • Instruction Manual
  • Twist-up Eyecups
  • Eyepiece Rainguard
  • 388ft. Field of View
  • Phase Coating

Specification:

  • Brand name: Celestron
  • Size: 8X32
  • Color: Army Green
Pros
  • The best compact binocular for adventures
  • Allows proper positioning of the eyes for both glass and non-glass wearers
  • Built for portability and the price
  • Comes with a carrying case for storage
  • Provides brighter images with high resolution
Cons
  • None thus far

3

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Compact H2O Binocular: Best Waterproof Binocular

Bushnell is another famous brand known for making sturdy, premium-quality binoculars for use. This brand is highly exceptional; one of their top products is the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Compact Binocular – the best waterproof. Regardless of its Trim and lightweight body, this binocular has an extremely wide field-of-view (FoV) to see moving objects and even animals.

The compact binocular has several features that contribute to its active performance, especially for hunting. For instance, it is color-tuned with high-resolution ED Prome extra-low dispersion glass for better clarity of details. Also, there is an ultra wide-band lens coating for ensuring maximum brightness. Furthermore, it comes in an ergonomic shape for more comfort during use.

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Compact H2O Binocular has a rainguard HD water-repellent coating; thus, it is uniquely waterproof. On the outside, this 10X26 binocular is covered with non-slip rubber armor for durability and protection. Indeed, it is a beautiful investment that is built to last for as long as possible.

Key Features:

  • Color-Tuned
  • Ultra Wide-Band Lens Coating
  • High-resolution ED Prime Extra-Low Dispersion Glass
  • Rainguard HD Water-repellent Coating
  • 15 Oz. Weight
  • Non-slip Rubber Armor
  • Ergonomic Shape

Specification:

  • Brand name: Bushnell
  • Size: 10X26
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best waterproof compact binocular to use
  • Comes with a beautiful design
  • Built to last
  • Delivers good optics with perfect HD clarity
  • Lightweight design
  • Guarantees excellent brightness at the peak
  • Strong and non-slip
Cons
  • None thus far

4

Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Compact Binocular: Best for Hunting

For people who are used to buying binoculars with top-notch quality, Vortex is not a new name. This brand is highly exceptional because they produce some of the sturdy and heavy-duty pairs of binoculars perfect for various purposes. Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Compact Binocular is one of the best available for hunting, and any hardcore outdoor activity.

This compact binocular comes with several interiors and exterior features for an excellent performance. It is made of Aluminum material that guarantees durability and scratchproof. Also, it is constructed with rubber armor and non-slip grip for a good hold, while being lightweight. Furthermore, there is a Diopter to adjust eye differences between users.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Compact Binocular has a 15mm Eye Relief with 10X magnification, and 42mm Objectives for absolute clarity. The lenses are fully multi-coated, i.e., Armotek and Dielectric to ensure the transmittance of light for visibility and color-accurate images. Besides, the eyecups are twist-up in design; thus, they are adjustable. Other features that this binocular has include: Argon Purging and O-ring Seals to ensure fogproof and waterproof qualities.

Key Features:

  • Aluminum Material
  • 15mm Eye Relief
  • Adjustable Eyecups
  • Rubber Armor
  • Fully Multi-coated Lenses
  • Armortek Coating
  • Cut Chromatic Aberration
  • Diopter
  • Dielectric Coating
  • Argon Purging
  • O-ring Seals
  • Rugged build
  • Non-slip Grip
  • Glass Pak Harness

Specification:

  • Brand name: Vortex
  • Size: 10X42
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best compact binoculars for hunting
  • Excellent durability
  • Comfortable with or without glasses
  • Fogproof and waterproof
  • Can withstand recoil and impact
  • Lenses are protected from scratches, oils and dirt
  • Great fidelity, sharpness and light transmission
  • Delivers exceptional resolution
Cons
  • None thus far

5

Wingspan Optics FieldView Travel Compact Binoculars: Best for Birding

If you are a birder, Wingspan Optics FieldView Travel Compact Binoculars are an excellent choice for you. It is lightweight and easy to use; thus, it is perfect for both kids and adults. This binocular is also suitable for other outdoor activities, such as watching games and events. Moreover, the non-slip grip makes it useful for these purposes.

This compact binocular has a Roof BaK-4 Prism with a 14.8mm Eye Relief to enhance a crystal clear focus. It delivers a 365ft/1000yards field of view, with its 8X magnification, and 32mm Objectives. Additionally, the close Focus of this binocular is about 3m, which is excellent enough for clarity.

Furthermore, this birding binocular is waterproof; hence, there is nothing to worry about in unpleasant conditions. Wingspan Optics FieldView Travel Compact Binocular comes with additional features like a Nylon Mesh Carrying Case, a Neck Strap, Lens covers, and Microfiber Lens Cloth for getting rid of dirt and maintaining lens’ quality.

Key Features:

  • Roof BaK-4 Prism
  • Waterproof
  • 14.8mm Eye Relief
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
  • Non-slip Grip
  • 365ft/1000yards Field of View
  • 3m Close Focus
  • Neck Strap
  • Nylon Mesh Carrying Case
  • Eyepiece and Lens Protection Covers
  • Non-Abrasive Microfiber Lens Cleaning Cloth

Specification:

  • Brand name: Wingspan Optics
  • Size: 8X32
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best compact binoculars for birding and watching outdoorsports
  • Delivers a crystal clear focus
  • Built with excellent durability for use
  • Lightweight: Suitable to use by kids and adults
  • High-powered with a wide field of view
  • Comes with a great packaging and storage case
Cons
  • None thus far

6

Nikon 7577 Monarch 5 Compact Binocular: Best Durability

Nikon is quite famous – it is mostly known for its incredible HD camera; however, compact binoculars are also the brand’s forte. Nikon 7577 Monarch 5 Compact Binoculars is an excellent choice to get you through any weather condition – dry or wet. It is the most durable binocular available due to its construction and available features.

This compact binocular has an Extra-Low Dispersion mechanism, coupled with high-resolution and easy light transmittance for clear visibility. The 10X42 binocular comes with other features like a fully multi-coated eco-glass lens and high-reflective prism multi-layer coatings to deliver a good range of view for the outdoorsy.

Nikon 7577 Monarch 5 Compact Binocular comes with a Smooth Central Knob to enhance easy Focus on objects far off. It is also waterproof for use, with the help of the Nitrogen-filled and O-ring seals.

Additionally, the rubber armored body with a non-slip grip makes it sturdy to use. Other accessories include Turn-and-Slide eyecups and Flip-down Lens Caps for protection.

Key Features:

  • Extra-Low Dispersion
  • Fully multi-coated eco-glass lens
  • Smooth Central Focus Knob
  • Turn-and-Slide Rubber Eyecups
  • Flip-down Lens Caps
  • Waterproof
  • Armored Body
  • Nitrogen filled and O-ring Seal
  • Non-slip Grip
  • High-Reflective Prism Multi-layer Coatings

Specification:

  • Brand name: Nikon
  • Size: 10X42
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best durable compact binoculars
  • Easy to bring an object into clear Focus
  • Delivers high contrast views
  • Suitable to use both in dry and wet situations
  • Incredible, long eye-relief for effective performance
  • Provides high resolution and light transmission
  • Significant investment for outdoor enthusiasts
Cons
  • Lens cap is not so great

7

Stellax ZoomX 10X42 Compact Binoculars: Best for Travel

For travel purposes, Stellax ZoomX Compact Binoculars is a preferable choice to consider. This binocular is not only known for its sturdy and rubberized body but also its advanced optics technologies. It is waterproof, all thanks to the Nitrogen-filling; hence, it is useful in all weather conditions.

The compact binocular has a Porro Prism and a Center Focus to ensure proper detailing. It comes with several features, including Twist-up eyecups to make sure it is adjustable and comfortable to use by glass and non-glass wearers. The lenses are coated with BAK4 to improve the transmittance of light for clear visibility.

With a 10X42 size, it offers a 305ft/1000yards Field of View. It uses its powerful tenfold Zoom to make sure it covers a wide range of area; thus, it is a perfect choice for bird-watching. Stellax ZoomX Compact Binocular is lightweight – about 1.20lbs., which makes it a fancy choice to carry around the neck with the help of a neck strap.

Key Features:

  • Porro Prism
  • Center Focus
  • Waterproof
  • Carrying Bag
  • BAK4 FMC Lens
  • Smartphone Adapter
  • Non-slip Rubber Body
  • 305ft/1000yards Field of View
  • Twist-up Eyecups
  • Nitrogen-filled
  • 1.20 lbs. Weight
  • 4 Dioptercomp
  • Neck Strap
  • 1 Lens Cleaning Cloth

Specification:

  • Brand name: Stellax
  • Size: 10X42
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best compact binoculars for travel
  • Highly functional when wet or dry
  • Quite versatile and lightweight
  • Produces crystal clear and colorful images
  • Another incredible choice for birdwatching and hunting
  • Lenses are protected from fogging
Cons
  • Accessories are easy to get lost

8

Carson 3D Series HD Waterproof Compact Binoculars: Best for Hiking

Carson 3D Series HD Waterproof Compact Binoculars are a perfect choice for hikers, bird-watchers, and even hunters. This binocular comes with all sorts of accessories to enhance its easy use for various outdoor activities. It combines an HD Optical Coating Technology with excellent storage capacity to make sure it is a worthy investment for users.

This binocular has a unique ED Glass that is responsible for delivering the sharpest and brightest images. Also, it is built to last with the help of its rubberized armor coating, which makes it possible to use under any circumstances.

Furthermore, the binocular comes with Nitrogen-purged and O-ring seals to ensure it is waterproof and fogproof.

Since this binocular is 10X42, it is expected that the Eye Relief and Field of View are outstanding (16mm and 314ft, respectively). Other features in Carson 3D Series Compact Binocular include a Neck Strap, a BinoArmor Deluxe Carry Case, and a Shoulder Harness.

Key Features:

  • ED Glass
  • Waterproof
  • 314ft/1000yards Field of View
  • 16mm Eye Relief
  • 1.4 lbs. Weight
  • Rubberized Armor Coating
  • BinoArmor Deluxe Carry Case
  • Neck Strap
  • Shoulder Harness
  • Nitrogen-Purged and O-ring Sealed
  • HD Optical Coating Technology

Specification:

  • Brand name: Carson
  • Size: 10X42
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best compact binoculars for hiking
  • Built to last
  • Rugged, shockproof, and fogproof
  • Delivers the brightest and clearest images possible
  • Ergonomical and lightweight
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • The case is not so good

9

Wingspan Optics Voyager 10X42 Compact Binoculars: Best Under $100

One of the best budget compact binoculars you could go for is Wingspan Optics Voyager. As expected, it is another incredible top-selling product from the brand. This compact binocular combines revolutionary technology and a lightweight body to deliver an excellent performance to birdwatchers, kids, and even hikers.

Wingspan Optics Voyager Compact Binoculars has a Center Focus to ensure proper detailing of objects from a distance. Also, it has a Roof Prism and a Multi-coated Lens to improve image clarity and visibility. In the same vein, it has a hyper-durable anti-slip grip, which makes it suitable to use under any weather condition.

This 10X42 binocular has a good field of view; thus, it is worth the investment. Furthermore, it is Nitrogen-purged to ensure it is waterproof and fogproof. Additionally, the package comes with a cleaning kit, consisting of eyepiece covers and microfiber lens cleaning cloth.

Key Features:

  • Center Focus
  • Waterproof
  • Roof Prism
  • 42mm Fully Multi-Coated Lens
  • Hyper-Durable Anti-Slip Grip
  • Nitrogen Purged
  • 30-Days Money Back Guarantee
  • Diopter
  • Neck Strap
  • Nylon Mesh Carrying Case
  • Eyepiece and Lens Protection Covers
  • Non-Abrasive Microfiber Lens Cleaning Cloth
  • 1.05 lbs. Weight
  • 283ft/1000yards Field of View

Specification:

  • Brand name: Wingspan Optics
  • Size: 10X42
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best compact binoculars under $100
  • Perfect choice for nature lovers, birdwatchers, kids, and mild outdoorsy
  • Delivers sharp and clear images
  • Covers a good range of distance
  • Coated for high-quality images
  • Easy to strap on and carry
Cons
  • None thus far

10

Bushnell Powerview 10X25 Compact Binocular: Best Under $50

One more from Bushnell is the PowerView Compact Binocular known to be one of the most affordable choices on the market. This binocular comes with simple features, yet is an extraordinary performance.

For instance, this compact binocular has a full lens coating and fully-coated optics to ensure easy light transmittance for brighter and sharper images. Also, it has a Center Focus system for great detailing from a distance. Although the binocular is not waterproof or fogproof, it is economical, versatile, and built to last.

Furthermore, this 10X25 binocular has a Roof Prism System with BK-7 Prism Glass to enhance better visibility. The Fold-down eyecups are another unique feature, that is adjustable and comfortable to use, especially with eye differences.

For storage and protection, Bushnell PowerView Compact Binoculars have a Carrying Case and a Neck Strap; thus, it is worth the money.

Key Features:

  • Full Lens Coating
  • Roof Prism System
  • Fold-down Eyecups
  • Center Focus System
  • Non-slip Rubber Armor
  • Fully-coated Optics
  • Carrying Case
  • Neck Strap
  • BK-7 Prism Glass

Specification:

  • Brand name: Bushnell
  • Size: 10X25
  • Color: Black
Pros
  • The best compact binoculars under $50
  • Easy to use
  • Designed to be economical and versatile
  • Coated for high-resolution and bright images
  • Comes with contemporary styling and top-notch quality
  • Convenient and comfortable
  • Highly durable and affordable
Cons
  • Not waterproof or fogproof

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you are wondering what it looks like to buy the best compact binoculars, well, you need to be prepared. One of the ways to prepare yourself is knowing a little more than the top binoculars available. You need to understand what makes up the best binoculars, how to choose the correct size for a particular purpose, and so on. Below is a list of questions that will help you discover how these binoculars work and how they should be chosen.

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Which compact binoculars are the best? Are compact binoculars any good?

Compact binoculars are more than extraordinary; they are perfect not only because of their portable size but also for their incredible features. These binoculars are useful for image viewing, regardless of the distance. For instance, this type of binoculars is commonly used in stadiums to help in following a match closely and clearly. In the same vein, they are perfect choices for hunting, birding, and even hiking – all you need is to find what brand is suitable.

There are a lot of binocular-producing brands; however, Zeiss, Nikon, Bushnell, and Celestron are the top brands on the market. Each of their products has been reviewed above, with a couple of others that guarantee excellent performance. Based on individual performance, Zeiss Terra ED Grey-Black Compact Binoculars is the best overall, following its features, pros, and cons. Indeed, compact binoculars are worth the money.

What is the best size of compact binoculars?

Choosing the size of a compact binocular depends on what activity you are interested in, i.e., birding, hiking, hunting, backpacking, etc. The size of compact binoculars, is, without a doubt, the function of the magnification and Objective lens. Check below for expert advice on size selection.

For birding: a compact binocular with a wide field of view is the most appropriate. It could be full-sized or mid-sized, depending on choice. The 8X32 and 8X42 binoculars are very useful.

For backpacking and hiking: Compact binoculars with magnification between 8X to 10X, and objective lens between 25mm and 28mm are the most suitable. Therefore, you can either use 8X25, 8X28, 10X25, or 10X28 binoculars.

For wildlife viewing: For outdoorsy who love to view the Safaris or wildlife, binoculars with magnification between 8X and 10X, and objective lenses between 32mm and 42mm are appropriate. Thus, you can either go for 8X32, 8X42, 10X32, or 10X42 binoculars.

What are the best compact binoculars for long-distance viewing?

A pair of binoculars is outstanding, especially if it is the compact type – it could make you see things that are miles away. Since lens metrics differ from one brand to another, there is the possibility of variation in the field of view, and distance. Therefore, you may want to consider a pair of long-distance compact binoculars, if you aim to see many more miles than usual.

Now, there are incredible things about these distance binoculars; for instance, they have a variable use, alongside providing more detail. Indeed, they are a perfect substitute for telescopes.

Fortunately, there are a couple of affordable options for long-distance compact binoculars. In this review, Bushnell PowerView Compact Binocular is the best to view farther distances. This pair of binoculars also have a friendly design, which makes it highly preferred in different outdoor activities.

What should I look for in compact binoculars?

With so much emphasis on getting compact binoculars for outdoor purposes, it is crucial to know how to choose what is the most suitable to use. There is a list of factors you should consider, so you could end up choosing the best compact binoculars on the market. They include:

Size

Generally, there are 3 sizes of binoculars – full-sized, mid-sized, and compact. The first two sizes are more massive and mostly suitable for hiking; however, the compact size is lightweight, portable, and suitable for various purposes, such as backpacking, birding, hunting, etc. A compact binocular is more likely to fit into your bag than any other type of binocular.

Magnification

This factor is a function of how better you can see the details of a place from another location. It either enlarges or diminishes. However, the higher the magnification, the lesser the field of view, and vice-versa. It is represented by a number and then “X”, i.e., 8X – an image is magnified 8 times.

Objective Lens

The size of the objectives determines the visibility of images, i.e., the amount of light capable of passing through it. In simple terms, the larger the size of the lens, the more light that is transmitted. It is often measured in mm. and is in conjunction with the magnification.

Waterproofing/Fogproofing: Most importantly, you may need to check if a binocular is fog/waterproof before buying, especially if you plan to use it in rainy or foggy areas. The essence of doing this is to prevent the binoculars from fogging up and spending extra on maintenance.

How do I stop my binoculars from fogging up? How do you get water out of binoculars?

Peradventure, your pair of binoculars, is not so fogproof, and you need an alternative method to prevent it from fogging up, there are things you could do.

First of all, you could expose such binoculars, i.e., the lens to a minimal amount of temperature to avoid the buildup of moisture.

You could also decide to apply a dry cloth over the lens and clean it carefully. OR. You can apply a gel product over the lens to reduce fog condensation.

On how to get water out of binoculars, do the following:

Make sure the binoculars are in a warm, dry place for a couple of days to weeks

Use a dessciant or seal in an airtight bag for another couple of days

Maintain dryness at all times, even after you get rid of water from the binoculars.

What does 40×60 magnification mean?

A 40X60 Binocular means – 40X Magnification and 60mm Objective Lens.

Remember, the higher the magnification, the lesser the field of view. With a binocular having 40X magnification, you would be able to see precise details but within a short view. Also, a higher objective lens means good visibility and light transmittance. Overall, this binocular is often called an HD Focusing Binocular with an amplified lens.

How do you clean the inside of a binocular lens? How do you clean binocular lenses?

Binoculars have lenses; thus, they can get dirty. Now, if you don’t clean up the dirt, it could affect image quality, as well as visibility. Therefore, you need to make sure the lenses are clean consistently. What you need to achieve is a binocular cleaning kit. The kit comprises a squeeze ball or air blaster, lens pen, and a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution.

Here is how to clean the inside of a binocular lens when it gets dirty:

Use the squeeze ball or air blaster to blow off dust and debris from the surface

With the lens pen, get rid of debris hiding at every corner of the lens

Pour the lens cleaner solution into a small container and dip the microfiber cloth in it. Slowly, rub the cloth on every part of the lens until it becomes clear.

The method is also applicable for cleaning the outer part of binocular lenses.

Conclusion

With a clear description of the 10 best compact binoculars in this review, it should be easy to choose what is perfect for you. This guide was only put together to make sure birders, hikers, hunters, backpackers, and other outdoorsy get a great chance to choose a binocular that works best for them. Moreover, the buying guide section is filled with answers to help you understand more about this incredible device. Choose what fits your budget and enjoy a whole new viewing experience.

If you have any queries feel free to reach out in the comments section below.

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Author

  • Dan gregory

    Dan Gregory grew up in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and spent much of his youth going on camping trips, and developed fond memories. After being drafted into the American Army, Dan gained more survival skills from military life. He got married and had two kids during that time as they moved around from one country to another. The military family lived in countries such as Japan and the UAE and eventually settled in Boulder, Colorado. Dan is now an army veteran and attended cooking school, as he is a cook at a restaurant. He enjoyed spending time with his family by going on exciting outings.

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