#1. Swarovski NL Pure 12x42 - First binocular with optional headrest for added stability
The fun thing about watching the top binocular makers compete with each other is waiting to see what innovation will appear next. The latest series from Swarovski
is the NL Pure binoculars. The first thing you notice is their distinctive, wasp-waist shape which makes holding the binoculars extremely comfortable and forces your
hands to the optimal position. Every configuration in the NL Pure series has comparatively wide fields of view, and the 12x42’s 339' at 1000 yards is the widest of
any top end 12x binocular.
Many people have a difficult time keeping 12x binoculars steady. In one of their latest innovations, Swarovski has provided a solution:
an optional forehead rest
accessory, which gives you another point of stabilization. The forehead rest is adjustable so it can be positioned to match your facial contours.
While the open bridge design is not continued from the EL Pro binocular series, the Pro strap connectors and objective lens covers are retained in all NL Pure models.
So too, are the water- and fog proofing, the Swarovision lens coatings, field flattener lenses, and fluoride objective lenses.
Fluoride Glass: Enhances resolution, color and contrast.
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Phase Correction: Enhances resolution and contrast through roof prisms.
Fog Proof: Barrels are filled with nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging.
Waterproof: Optics are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the binocular.
SwaroDur and SwaroClean® Lens Coatings: Repels water and residue and resists scratching on outer glass surfaces.
Roof Prisms: Appreciated for a streamlined shape and durability.
Rubber Armoring: Provides a secure, non-slip grip.
Multi-position Eyecups: Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
Center Focus Wheel: Adjusts both binocular barrels at the same time.
Right Eye Diopter: Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes and located by the center focus wheel.
Better grip: The NL Pure has a narrow "waist" allowing an easier grip, especially with smaller hands. The waist leaves no question about
where to grip the binocular and makes it easier to grip it with only one hand.
State of the Art Material: The NL Pure has an armor-coated magnesium chassis making it lightweight but durable.
Faster Focus: The focus speed on the NL Pures has increased over the speed on the EL Pros. Infinity to the 8.5' close focus takes less
than 2 full turns of the focus knob.
Image Immersion: This binocular offers three qualities that combined create the best immersion in the image 1. An extraordinarily wide
field of view of 339 feet at a distance of 1000 yards 2. Edge-to-edge sharpness in the image and 3. Long eye relief, for glasses wearers.
Protective Coating: The NL Pure exterior glass is coated with SwaroDur® scratch resistant coating and SwaroClean®, to effectively repel
water and grease. It also reduces glare.
Swarovski NL Pure Warranty: Swarovski guarantees for the entire range of branded products purchased from authorized Swarovski retailers,
a global and full life-time warranty covering manufacturing and material defects under normal use beginning with the date of purchase.
About Swarovski: Swarovski is an Austrian company that is also famous for crystal jewelry and figurines.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
12x42 |
Magnification: |
12 |
| Field of View: |
339ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
3.5 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
18 mm |
Dimensions: |
6.2 x 5.1 x 2.8 in. |
| IPD Min: |
56 mm |
IPD Max: |
74 mm |
| Close Focus: |
8.5 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
29.5 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Exotic Phase-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with Detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
Included In The Box:
Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Covers, Padded Ballistic Nylon Case with Strap.
#2. Zeiss Victory SF 10x42 Black - Immersive views with revolutionary ergonomics
In building the Victory SF, Zeiss decided to start over from scratch and design a brand new binocular. Their goal was to create the best binocular
in the world for nature viewing and we feel they clearly accomplished this goal.
Zeiss Victory SF 10x42 T* Binoculars bring upgraded features to the Victory SF line. The focusing system is smoother and more precise; the twist
up eyecups have an added click stop; and the armoring is now black. Otherwise, the optics and the ergonomics remain the same. The 10x SF's
field of view is still an enormous 360' at 1000 yards, close focus is still 4.9', and the ErgoBalance Concept yields the same fatigue-reducing
balance. Focus from close focus to infinity takes only 1.9 turns.
One of the best things about the Victory SF is its lightweight and ergonomic design. The Victory SF is a top choice for long days of bird
viewing at a distance. The Victory has a field view of 360 ft. at 1000 yards making you feel one with nature. The "Smart Focus" feature
gives users the ability to rapidly focus on fast moving objects at a distance without losing clarity so you never miss a moment.
Ultra-Fluoride lens system with 92% light transmission delivers bright, clear images, even in low-light situations. Victory SF's nitrogen
filled barrels prevent internal fogging making them waterproof, long lasting and durable.
Fluoride Glass: Enhances resolution, color and contrast.
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Phase Correction: Enhances resolution and contrast through roof prisms.
Fog Proof: Barrels are filled with nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging.
Waterproof: Optics are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the binocular.
LotuTec® Lens Coating: Repels water and residue on outer glass surfaces.
Roof Prisms: Appreciated for a streamlined shape and durability.
Rubber Armoring: Provides a secure, non-slip grip.
Multi-position Eyecups: Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
Center Focus Wheel: Adjusts both binocular barrels at the same time.
Right Eye Diopter: Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes and located by the center focus wheel.
History and more about Zeiss and what makes the Victory SF the leader in optic gear binoculars.
Zeiss is a German company that has been making binoculars for over 120 years. They also make eyeglass lenses, camera and movie lenses, large
telescope lenses, planetariums, and medical equipment. So you are getting the top of the line from those who are top of the line in their business.
Better balance: The SF's prism system was changed from the Abbe Koenig system of the Victory HT to the Schmidt Pechan prism
system. This gave a complete new design in the optics so that there is more weight in the eyepiece end and less in the objective end. This shifts the
center of gravity toward the eyes, giving the SF perfect balance.
State of the Art Material: The Victory SF has an armor-coated magnesium chassis making it lightweight but durable, making the SF
more binocular for less weight.
Smart Focus: With the new prism system, your index finger can reach the focus knob in a natural position without having to angle to
the side. It's comfortable. Providing a perceptibly better focusing experience.
Triple Bridge Design: This design is open bridge for lighter weight and improved handling. The Zeiss has three bridge hinges instead
of two. This adds strength without significantly adding weight and helps keep the barrels in alignment. The bridge spacing also allows more room for
your fingers, and you have more choice in where you grip. Overall it is a much more comfortable fit than any other binocular currently available.
Image Immersion: This binocular offers three qualities that combined create the best immersion in the image 1. An extraordinarily wide
field of view of 360 feet at a distance of 1000 yards 2. Edge-to-edge sharpness in the image and 3. Long eye relief, for glasses wearers.
Protective Coating: The Victory SF exterior glass is coated with LotuTec®, to effectively repel water and grease. It also reduces
glare and reflections and makes the lens surface much more durable.
Zeiss Victory SF Warranty: All Zeiss binoculars purchased from authorized US dealers carry a transferable, limited lifetime warranty
against manufacturer's defects. The Victory SF binocular also carries a USA and Canada, non-transferable, 5-year "No Fault Policy" that covers damage
during normal and intended use, provided the binocular is registered within 60 days of purchase.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
10x42 |
Magnification: |
10 |
| Field of View: |
360 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
4.2 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
18 mm |
Dimensions: |
6.8 x 4.9 in. |
| IPD Min: |
54 mm |
IPD Max: |
76 mm |
| Close Focus: |
4.9 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
27.5 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Exotic Phase-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with Detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
Included In The Box:
Case, Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Covers.
#3. Leica Noctivid 8x42 - Delivers vibrant colors
The Leica Noctivid 8x42 HD Binoculars are Leica's top of the line optics, translating the famous quality of their Noctilux camera lenses to sport optics. An improved optical design offers views of subjects as close as 6.2 feet, a vast improvement over their previous alpha binoculars, the Ultravid’s 9.8’. In addition to their close focus and increased field of view (404’ at 1000 yards), Leica has endowed the Noctivids with 12 fully multi-coated elements of Schott HT (for High Transmission) glass, delivering 92% of the entering light to the viewer with the utmost of contrast and vivid color fidelity.
Comfortable ergonomics allow for fast handling and quick observation of your subject. Their special rubber armoring and waterproof/fogproof construction ensure that they can handle anything in your way. All Noctivid external lens surfaces feature water repellent (AquaDura), scratch resistant (HDC), easy to clean coatings.
The Noctivid’s rugged magnesium chassis is waterproof and nitrogen filled, making it watertight to 16’ (5m). The body is rubber armored.
Roof Prisms: Appreciated for a streamlined shape and durability.
Magnesium Body: Is sturdy lightweight and resistant to corrosion.
Rubber Armoring: Is protective and resistant to corrosion.
Multi-position Eyecups: Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
Center Focus Wheel: Adjusts both binocular barrels at the same time.
Right Eye Diopter: Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes. Located on the center focus wheel. Pull up to engage.
Waterproof Optics: Sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the binocular.
Fogproof Barrels: Filled with nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging.
The benefits at a glance:
- Outstanding optical performance
- Compact and lightweight
- Extremely robust
- Perfect ergonomics
- Attractive design
Quality binoculars are an investment, and if you want to enjoy the exceptional quality of the "big three" (Leica, Swarovski, and Zeiss), you typically must be willing to spend. The price is not attributed just to the name but to the binoculars' more state of the art components and the craftsmanship involved by skilled German and Austrian manufacturers. The innovations in glass technology have also raised the bar to almost "bionic" levels.
For those who can afford the higher price it IS well worth it but not everyone can, so recently, brands are striving for ways to offer models at lower prices
without losing their standards.
The $2,800 price point seems to be the norm for the majority of the most serious bird watchers.
The Noctivid optics deliver an exciting image with a depth of field, high contrast, and colors that pop, giving you the experience of being drawn into its immersive view.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
8x42 |
Magnification: |
8 |
| Field of View: |
404 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
5.25 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
19 mm |
Dimensions: |
5.9 x 4.9 x 2.3 in. |
| IPD Min: |
56 mm |
IPD Max: |
74 mm |
| Close Focus: |
6.2 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
30.34 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Phase-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
Included In The Box:
Case, strap, rainguard, tethered objective covers.
#4. Zeiss SFL 10x40 Binoculars - 22.6 oz, 52mm min. IPD
It’s always interesting when a manufacturer deviates from the current norm. Such is the case with the Zeiss SFL binoculars. While most of the binoculars in this size range have 42mm objectives, the SFLs are 40mm. The size reduction has two major benefits: lower weight in a sturdy chassis, and a 52mm minimum interpupillary distance (IPD) making these binoculars accessible to people whose eyes are very close together. Additional ergonomic benefits are use of Zeiss’ Smart Focus Concept features like the size and placement of the focus wheel. The focus wheel is placed forward of the bridge for natural finger reach and is large for precision and goes from lock to lock in 1.4 turns.
Optically the SFL uses Zeiss' UHD Concept optics which optimizes lens design and coatings to deliver maximum detail, contrast, and color reproduction. Light transmission is 90%, just 2% below the Victory SFs. The SFL 10x40’s field of view is 345’ at 1000 yards and the close focus is a mere 4.9 feet.
Projected delivery is sometime in July 2022. If you want to be the first on your block to have a pair, they are active on our website now so you can preorder whenever you want.
Phase Correction: Enhances resolution and contrast through roof prisms.
BaK-4 Prisms: Optimize light transmission.
HD ED Fluorite Lenses: Extra-low dispersion objective lenses for reduction of chromatic aberration, yielding increased contrast, resolution, and color fidelity.
UHD Concept Multi-coatings: Ion-assisted multi-coatings reduces glare and transmits 99.8% of the light at each lens surface.
LotuTec Coating: Protects external lenses from scratches and repels water and dirt.
Long Eye Relief: Allows eyeglass wearers to see a full field of view.
Wide field of View: Makes it easier to find and follow your target.
Close Focus: Ability to focus at 4.9’ is almost like having a microscope in the field.
Magnesium Alloy Chassis: Solid, lightweight body with shorter and narrower tubes allow for 52mm minimum IPD.
Smart Focus Concept: Places the focus wheel below the bridge for a more comfortable reach to the wheel. Fast focus goes from infinity to 4.9’ in 1.4 revolutions.
Water - and Fogproof: O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to prevent internal fogging.
Image Immersion: This binocular offers three qualities that combined create the best immersion in the image 1. An extraordinarily wide field of view of 339 feet at a distance of 1000 yards 2. Edge-to-edge sharpness in the image and 3. Long eye relief, for glasses wearers.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
10x40 |
Magnification: |
10 |
| Field of View: |
345 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
4 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
18 mm |
Dimensions: |
5.67 x 4.9 in. |
| IPD Min: |
52 mm |
IPD Max:: |
74 mm |
| Close Focus: |
4.9 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
22.6 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Prism Material: BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with Detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
Included In The Box:
Case, Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Covers.
#5. GPO Passion HD 42mm - Spectacular lifetime warranty
GPO Passion HD’s objective lenses are what they call Double HD, meaning they have two extra-low dispersion elements that are chemically laminated to each other, creating a single, multilayer, high performance lens. This lens system greatly reduces chromatic aberration, resulting in increased sharpness and less eye fatigue. All air to glass surfaces are coated with their GPObright transmission coating, passing 99.7% of the light striking each surface. Overall, 91% of the light reaching the objective lenses reaches the viewer’s eyes. External lenses are additionally covered with PASSIONdrop hydrophobic coating that repels water and dust.
Fluoride Glass: Enhances resolution, color and contrast.
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces that each pass 99.7% of the light, resulting in 91% overall light transmission.
Phase Correction: Enhances resolution and contrast through roof prisms.
Fog Proof: Barrels are filled with dry nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging.
Waterproof: Optics are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the binocular.
PASSIONdrop Lens Coatings: Repels water and residue and resists scratching on outer glass surfaces.
Roof Prisms: Appreciated for a streamlined shape and durability.
Rubber Armoring: Provides a secure, non-slip grip.
Multi-position Eyecups: Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
Center Focus Wheel: Adjusts both binocular barrels at the same time. It is very smooth and goes from infinity to close focus of 6.5’ in only 1.6 revolutions.
Right Eye Diopter: Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes and located under the center focus wheel.
State of the Art Material: The Passion HD has an armor-coated magnesium chassis making it lightweight but durable.
Fast Focus: The focus speed on the Passion HD binoculars requires only 1.6 turns to go from infinity to 6.5’.
Image Immersion: This binocular offers three qualities that combined create the best immersion in the image 1. An extraordinarily wide field of view of 339 feet at a distance of 1000 yards 2. Edge-to-edge sharpness in the image and 3. Long eye relief, for glasses wearers.
Protective Coating: The NL Pure exterior glass is coated with SwaroDur® scratch resistant coating and SwaroClean®, to effectively repel water and grease. It also reduces glare.
GPO Warranty: GPO, USA warranty states
GPO, USA is 100% confident that all our product will not only function perfectly but will exceed your expectations. Therefore, GPO, USA has created an industry leading Spectacular Lifetime Warranty™. With outstanding professional service, we will take of our products before, during and after your purchase at no charge to you, EVER. If your product is not functioning properly, GPO, USA will repair or replace it with a product in perfect working condition.* We at GPO know that you have chosen to trust us by purchasing one of our premium products and we understand that this trust is important. The GPO, USA Spectacular Lifetime Warranty™ applies to every GPO product bought in the United States, no matter where you purchased it, no matter how long you have had it. In addition to this “best in class” service, GPO trusts our retail partners to also service your needs. If you prefer to return a damaged or non-functioning GPO product to the retailer where you have purchased your optic, GPO authorizes the retailer to replace your item “on the spot”. This level of service is unsurpassed in the industry. Trust in GPO. You will not be disappointed.
The benefits at a glance:
- Lifetime Warranty
- Fully transferable
- No warranty card registration required
- No proof of purchase required
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
10x42 |
Magnification: |
10 |
| Field of View: |
336 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
4.2 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
17 mm |
Dimensions: |
6.1 in. long |
| IPD Min: |
57 mm |
IPD Max:: |
75 mm |
| Close Focus: |
6.5 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
29.6 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Prism Material: Exotic Phase-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with Detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
Included In The Box:
Case, Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Covers.
#6. Nikon Monarch HG 30mm - Mid-priced excellent from a trusted name
Back when the most expensive binoculars sold for under $1000, mid-price was considered to be $500 or less. Today, with top end binoculars approaching
$3000, many people are calling the $1000 level “the new mid-price”. One of our favorites at the $1000 level is the Nikon Monarch HG series.
The Monarch HG series is a huge departure from other Nikon binoculars. Previous Nikon roof prism binoculars were either made of aluminum and weighed
in the high 20 ounces, or were made of polycarbonate, so they were light but less durable. The Monarch HGs have a magnesium alloy chassis, resulting
in a light but durable body weighing in the 24 oz. range. The body is waterproof and nitrogen purged. They can withstand a depth of 5m (16.4’) for
10 minutes.
The HGs are the first Nikon birding binoculars with a 2m (6.56’) close focus. All of the other Monarchs (Monarch 3, Monarch 5, and Monarch 7) have
close focus specs in excess of 2.5m (8.2’), making the HGs more useful for observing smaller things, like insects and wildflowers, that allow closer
approach.
Monarch HG binoculars provide bright, sharp views due to a wealth of modern features. The objective lenses are made of Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass.
The entire light path is fully multi-coated, and the BaK-4 roof prisms are phase corrected and dielectric coated, transmitting 92% of the light that
reaches the objective lenses to the viewer’s eyes. This is even more important for 30mm binoculars as they receive significantly less light than the
42mm models. The eyepieces have field-flattener lenses which deliver edge-to-edge sharpness. The external lenses also have scratch-resistant coatings.
ED Glass enhances color fidelity and reduces chromatic aberration
Dielectric and phase-correction prism coatings boost light transmission
Rubber armored magnesium alloy body is rugged yet lightweight
2-meter close focus improves studying insects or birds at your feet
Wide fields of view the 8x30 has 435’ at 1000 yds. and the 10x30 has 362’
Nikon’s Warranty
Nikon supports all Monarch binoculars with a lifetime limited warranty.
Included In The Box:
Case, neck strap, rainguard, and tethered objective covers.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
8x30 / 10x30 |
Magnification: |
8 / 10 |
| Field of View: |
435 / 362 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
3.75 / 3 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
15.7 / 15.2 mm |
Dimensions: |
4.7 x 5.0 x 1.9 in. |
| IPD Min: |
56 mm |
IPD Max: |
74 mm |
| Close Focus: |
6.56 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
15.9 / 15.9 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Phase-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
#7. Vortex Viper HD 10x42 - The price/performance leader
Vortex Viper HD 10x42 binoculars underwent an extensive overhaul for 2018, making them even better than before. Improvements include enhanced coatings,
increased field of view, and a wider range of interpupillary distance. The Viper HD binoculars combine high-quality HD extra-low dispersion glass with
state-of-the-art coatings to produce a premium optical experience. The XR fully multi-coated lenses bring bright colors, enhanced contrast, and high-resolution
detail to already brilliant images. Tough rubber armoring combined with fully waterproof and internally fog-proof, the 10x42 Viper HD binocular also has ArmorTek,
a coating that makes the lenses repel oil and dirt as well as being more scratch -resistant. At just 24.9 ounces, Vortex Viper HD 10x42 binoculars are one of the
lightest full-size binos available.
Your purchase is backed by Vortex's 'VIP' lifetime NO-FAULT Warranty standing for 'Very Important Promise.' That is Vortex's
guarantee of quality and satisfaction no matter what happens to your binoculars.
Vortex Premium HD (High Density) Extra-low Dispersion glass provides outstanding resolution and color fidelity along with an
APO-Chromatic optical system providing further color sharpness.
Phase-Corrective and Multi-Layer (XR-Plus) Dielectric prism coatings on a BaK-4 prism increases light transmission, brightness,
contrast, and color fidelity.
ArmorTek repels the oil and corrosive salts of fingerprints from lenses. This ultra-hard lens armor is chemically bonded to outer
glass elements, providing a scratch-resistant, stain-proof surface. ArmorTek protects optical glass from dust, dirt and smudges.
Highly prized argon gas purging for superior fogproof and waterproof performance.
Waterproof performance designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Included In The Box:
Case, Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Covers.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
10x42 |
Magnification: |
10 |
| Field of View: |
341 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
4.2 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
17 mm |
Dimensions: |
5.6 x 4.9 in. |
| IPD Min: |
56 mm |
IPD Max: |
76 mm |
| Close Focus: |
6.5 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
24.9 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Argon Purged |
Prism Material: |
Phase-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with Detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
#8. Kowa BD II 6.5x32 XD Binoculars - 6.5x32 WA 525' @ 1000 yds
The Kowa BD binoculars are now in their third generation. Unlike some other manufacturers who make minor, incremental change between model versions, Kowa makes sweeping changes each time. With the BD II XD binoculars, there is a massive increase in field of view to 525’ at 1,000 yards.
Do you want to study butterflies, dragonflies, and other insects? The Kowa BD II 6.5x32 XD focuses down to 4.25 feet. That’s close enough for watching a MacGillivray’s Warbler, Fox Sparrow, or Sedge Wren hopping around your feet.
The XD in the binocular’s name stands for eXtra-low Dispersion glass, which is instrumental in reducing color fringing caused by chromatic aberration. Kowa’s spotting scopes are famous for using pure fluoride crystal in their objective lenses. The technology is still not available for making a 32mm lens from pure fluoride crystal, so Kowa uses small pieces of the crystal mixed into the calcium fluoride glass to augment its ability to reduce chromatic aberration. The BaK-4 prisms are phase corrected and C3 coated. Exterior lens surfaces now have Kowa's KR hydrophobic lens coating, which repels water and dirt.
Kowa uses another special material, magnesium alloy, to reduce the weight of the BD II XD chassis. The 32mm models weigh 18.5 ounces. They are rubber armored, waterproof and nitrogen purged.
All in all, the Kowa BD II 6.5x32 XD binoculars are a great choice in their price category for birders, butterfliers, sports fans, and hunters. If you need low light performance, also consider the 42mm models in this series.
Included In The Box:
Case, Strap, Rainguard, Objective Covers.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
6.5x32 |
Magnification: |
8 |
| Field of View: |
525 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
4.92 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
17 mm |
Dimensions: |
4.6 x 4.9 x 2.0 in. |
| IPD Min: |
55 mm |
IPD Max: |
77 mm |
| Close Focus: |
4.25 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
18.5 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof, fogproof |
Prism Material: |
BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
#9. Celestron TrailSeeker ED 8x32 Binoculars - Lightweight, close focus, wide field of view!
Celestron added Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass to the objective lenses of their TrailSeeker binoculars and created a series called the TrailSeeker ED binoculars.
This 8x32 model is barely over a pound at 17.6 oz. The optics also feature BaK-4 prisms which are both phase- and dielectric-coated for improved contrast and light
transmission. Also contributing to these characteristics are multi-coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Celestron gets high marks for accomplishing these features
at such a low price point.
The TrailSeeker ED 8x32 has a generous 410' field of view at 1000 yards and can focus as closely as 6.5'. This combination is not only great for birding, but also
for butterflies and dragonflies, which are frequently quite small and can move very fast.
You can't go wrong with these binoculars at this price.
Included In The Box:
Case, Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Covers.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
8x32 |
Magnification: |
8 |
| Field of View: |
410 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
4 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
15.6 mm |
Dimensions: |
4.8 X 4.8 X 1.9 IN. in. |
| Close Focus: |
6.5 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
17.6 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Phase - and Dielectric-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with Detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |
#10. The Celestron Nature DX 8x32 - The best kids' binoculars we've found yet
The Celestron Nature DX 8x32 binoculars are the perfect choice for kids. They have all the features you could want in a beginning naturalist’s
binocular, while still being economical. Nature DX 8x32 binoculars are lightweight at 18 ounces, despite their rubber armoring, and have a minimum
interpupillary distance of 56mm, which will fit all but the narrowest faces. Optically, they have a field of view of 388’ at 1000 yards, a close
focus of 6.5’, eye relief of 17.5mm. Being able to focus at 6.5’ makes them great for the youngster who wants to study birds, bugs, or blooms.
It’s like having a microscope in the field. The lenses are fully multi-coated, and the roof prisms are phase-corrected BaK-4 glass for a sharper,
brighter image. The eyecups are twist-up with detents, making it easy to find and maintain a comfortable view.
Fully Multi-coated Lenses: Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Phase Correction: Enhances resolution and contrast through roof prisms.
BaK-4 Prisms: Optimize light transmission.
Polycarbonate Chassis: Body is sturdy yet lightweight.
Rubber Armoring: Provides a secure, non-slip grip.
Adjustable Eyecups: Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
Center Focus Wheel: Adjusts both binocular barrels at the same time.
Right Eye Diopter: Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes. Located by the right eyepiece.
Tripod Adaptable: Can be mounted using standard 1/4 inch threading. Adapter sold separately.
Waterproof Optics: are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the binocular.
Fogproof Barrels: are filled with nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging.
Included In The Box:
Case, Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Covers.
| Power X Obj. Dia: |
8x32 |
Magnification: |
8 |
| Field of View: |
388 ft. at 1000 yds. |
Exit Pupil: |
4 mm |
| Eye Relief: |
17.5 mm |
Dimensions: |
5 x 4.9 x 1.8 in. |
| IPD Min: |
56 mm |
IPD Max: |
74 mm |
| Close Focus: |
6.5 ft. |
Product Weight (oz): |
18 oz. |
| Waterproofing: |
Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged |
Prism Material: |
Phase-coated BaK-4 |
| Lens Coatings: |
Fully Multi-Coated |
Armoring: |
Rubber |
| Eye Cups: |
Twist-up with Detents |
Design Type: |
Roof Prism |