PERFORMANCE OF 42 MM BINOCULARS IN VARIOUS PRICE BRACKETS: SWAROVSKI ONCE AGAIN SETS A HIGH QUALITY STANDARD WITH ITS NEW 42 42 MM SWAROVISION EL ...
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PERFORMANCE OF 42 MM BINOCULARS IN VARIOUS PRICE BRACKETS:
SWAROVSKI ONCE AGAIN SETS A HIGH QUALITY STANDARD WITH ITS NEW 42
42 MM SWAROVISION EL AND SLC-HD BINOCULARS
Dr. Gijs van Ginkel
August 2010
INTRODUCTION.
To gain an impression of performance in terms of comfort of use and optical quality, a number of binoculars
with a 42 mm objective lens (8x42, 10x42 and 7x42) were tested from different price brackets. The most
important test results are summarised in tables. The main impetus for carrying out these tests was the
introduction of the successor to the Swarovski EL in the form of Swarovision EL binoculars that entered the
market from 1 January 2010 and the new Swarovski 8x42 SLC-HD and 10x42 42 SLC-HD binoculars,
which were introduced in the spring of 2010. Other newcomers include the Steiner Discovery 8x44, Leica
Geovid 8x42HD and Zeiss Victory RF 8x45. The last two binoculars include integrated rangefinders. The
test results clearly demonstrate that the new Swarovski EL Swarovision binoculars as well as the new
Swarovski SLC-HD’s, once again set a new quality standard.
COMFORT OF USE.
The comfort of use of binoculars is primarily determined by their weight, how they feel in the hand (grip,
balance, armouring of the binocular housing), rotation speed, rotation resistance, ease of use of the focusing
ring, type of eyecup (whether or not removable by the user; whether the entire field of view remains visible
to spectacle wearers when the eyecups are twisted in or folded down) and the strap and its attachment points.
Weights are listed in a table for ease of comparison. For a pair of 42 mm binoculars, 700-800 grams
represents a good compromise: not too heavy and yet heavy enough to dampen vibrations from the user's
hand. In addition to a miniature laser, binoculars with integrated laser rangefinders also include a beam
splitter, a detector and accompanying optics, and electronics for signal processing. These make the
binoculars larger, heavier and more expensive.
Feel in the hand.
The way that binoculars feel in the hand is determined by the shape, size and balance of the binocular
housing, of which there are two types: open bridge and closed bridge. Binoculars with an open bridge are
nothing new. As early as 1900, Hensoldt in Wetzlar was making binoculars with an open bridge
construction. However, until Swarovski introduced its new EL series in 1999 binocular manufacturers had
been unable to produce a revolutionary new model of roof-prism binoculars with an open bridge. The
Swarovski EL series was an immediate success. Not only on account of its high level of optical quality, but
also because the open bridge of the Swarovski EL, coupled with its good balance and ergonomic
arrangement of the focusing wheel, made the binoculars feel extremely good in the hand and comfortable to
use. As a result the EL binoculars can also be operated using just one hand. The success of the Swarovski EL
binoculars inspired other binocular manufacturers to launch open-bridge binoculars, such as Bushnell
(Bushnell Elite), Bynolyth (Bynolyth Buzzard), Hawke (Hawke Frontier), Nikon (Nikon EDG), Opticron
(Opticron Verano), Steiner (Steiner Discovery and Steiner Nighthunter XP) and Vanguard (Vanguard
Platinum).
Two of these were included in this test: the Bushnell Elite 8x42 and the Steiner Discovery 8x42.
The space within the open bridge of the Bushnell Elite is very small, meaning that the binoculars actually
need to be used as if they had a closed bridge. This has a negative impact on the way the binoculars feel in
the hand and on comfort of use as a whole.
Steiner, which previously focused primarily on hunting and water sports, was also inspired by the Swarovski
EL and has launched the Discovery series in an attempt to gain a foothold in the world of bird watching.
When placed side by side, the Swarovski EL and Steiner Discover appear to have virtually identical external
dimensions. However, Steiner opted for a number of different features in the Discovery compared to those in
the Swarovski EL. These include (1) magnification of 8x, compared to 8,5x for the Swarovski EL, (2) an
objective lens diameter of 44 mm, compared to 42 mm for the EL, (3) a gel cushion on the underside of the
binocular housing where the EL has a recess for the user's thumb and (4) central focusing combined with
individual eyepiece focusing (see "The focusing mechanism" below for more details).
As with all other EL copies that I have held to date, the Steiner Discovery does not share the excellent feel of
the Swarovski EL. This is primarily because the connection point between the two binocular tubes to which
the central focusing wheel is attached is considerably thicker than on the EL. As a result, (a) the index finger
needs to be moved a greater distance from the other fingers for focusing or (b) the middle finger and index
1finger need to be placed alongside each other on the connecting piece while the ring and little fingers are
placed in the open bridge. Neither of these options feel as good in the hand as the Swarovski EL and it is
more difficult to use the binoculars with just one hand. Furthermore, the thumb grip, which comprises a
notch on the underside of the binocular housing on the Swarovski EL, is filled with a type of gel on the
Steiner Discovery. This is something of an acquired taste. I did not like it, but I know of other users who
appreciate this feature. All in all, the way the Steiner feels in the hand scores a "good", rather than the
"excellent" for the Swarovski EL and the new EL Swarovision.
The way that binoculars with a closed bridge feel in the hand is determined by the size of the binocular
housing and the placement of the eyelets for the strap. These sometimes protrude a great deal and can stick
painfully into the ball of the hand. This is something to bear in mind when buying binoculars.
The armouring of the binocular housing.
All binoculars have plastic or rubber armouring. This feels pleasant in the hand, especially in freezing
conditions. The quality of the armouring can differ somewhat. The Bushnell Elite, for example, is only
partially covered and the armouring came loose on my test sample. (When asked about this, the Bushnell
importer responded that this problem had never been reported before.) The armouring on the Steiner
Discovery is soft to the touch. According to information from Steiner, this was done so that the armouring
muffles sound even more effectively if the binoculars bump up against anything. Steiner assures me that the
material has proven to be extremely durable. Only time will tell.
The focusing mechanism.
The following are of importance: the positioning and size of the focusing wheel, the ease with which this
turns, the number of rotations required to change from close focus to infinity, and the mechanism for
correcting differences in eye strength.
The rotational resistance of the focusing wheel was acceptable for all binoculars at temperatures above
freezing point, although some failed to perform at sub-zero temperatures. For some binoculars in the lower
price bracket, the focusing wheel did not feel good when rotated: it would stick or produce a sucking sound
caused by moving grease. Such shortcomings will not improve over time, making these binoculars unsuitable
for long-term professional use. The Vanguard binoculars, for example, suffered in this regard.
The number of rotations required to adjust from close focus to infinity is important as this determines how
quickly the focus can be set. Too few rotations (less than 1) gives cause for concern as the user will need to
make constant adjustments to keep the image sharp; too many (more than 1.5) and the bird may be long gone
before everything is in focus.
With 2.5 rotations, the brand new Swarovski Swarovision EL therefore ought to be out of the running.
However, this is not the case as Swarovski has developed a particularly clever focusing wheel that uses
logarithmic speed. In other words, around one rotation changes the focus from infinity to just a few metres,
with the remaining rotation adjusting the short distance down to 1,5 metres. This means that the binoculars
can very quickly be set to large distances, while remaining sufficiently fast and very precise at short
distances. The new Swarovski SLC-HD’s also have a focussing wheel with logarithmic speed and the
rotational resistance is even more smooth then that of the EL Swarovision.
In addition to central focusing, the Leica Geovid, Steiner Discovery and Zeiss Victory RF also allow each
eyepiece to be focused individually. For the Leica Geovid and Zeiss Victory RF, this is necessary to correct
for differences in eye strength and also to focus the distance scale projected onto the binocular image in
order to take readings (these binoculars have a integrated laser rangefinder).
The Steiner Discovery does not have an integrated rangefinder, although it does offer both focusing options.
This can take some getting used to, but it does work well. The central focusing wheel on the Discovery
includes a distance scale that can be used to focus the binoculars during the approach and then make minor
adjustments when placed to the user's eyes. This is a very useful feature. However, rotating the two
eyepieces to adjust the focus is particularly difficult on the Discovery and this only becomes worse at
temperatures below freezing.
Correction for different eye strengths.
The tables provide the dioptric range for differences in eye strength. Various systems are used to correct for
different eye strengths. Individual eyepiece adjustment (Steiner) is one of these. An adjustable ring beneath
one of the eyepieces is another common approach. This usually works without problems, as long as the rings
do not seize up below freezing point.
For a number of premium binoculars, including those from Leica, Swarovski and Zeiss, the correction for
eye strength is performed by pulling out the central focusing wheel, turning it to the desired setting and
2pushing it back in. This is quick and effective, even when looking through the binoculars. On the Bushnell
Elite, the correction ring beneath the central focusing wheel appears somewhat delicate.
The eyecups.
Eyecups that can be twisted in and out are best for spectacle wearers. Being able to remove the eyecups
yourself is also useful for cleaning or replacing them. If this is not possible, damaged binoculars need to be
sent away for repairs, which involves both waiting times and additional expense. All binoculars tested have
sufficiently large eye relief to provide spectacle wearers with a full field of view, see table. I verified this
using a pair of test spectacles and skiing goggles (the distance to the eyepiece lens is much larger with the
latter). The Steiner Discovery has winged, fold-down rubber flaps on the twist-in eyepieces to prevent
indirect light entering from the side. This is not particularly useful and, actually, is something of a weak
point since the rubber will crack over time and the binoculars will need to be sent away for repairs (I was
unable to remove the rubber rings from the eyepieces without damaging them). Some eyepieces could no
longer be moved at temperatures below freezing, see table.
The strap.
Most of the binoculars have eyelets for attaching a strap. This is a universal fitting suitable for a wide range
of straps. Bushnell and Steiner, however, have proprietary strap attachment systems that will only accept
their own straps, which means that users are locked in to these brands. The attachment systems of both these
binoculars also exhibit failings. If the strap breaks, users need to contact the manufacturer for a replacement
and if the attachment system itself breaks, the binoculars have to be returned to the factory or repairer. This
makes users dependent on the level of service offered by the importer and/or manufacturer.
One useful feature of the Steiner strap is that it can be quickly attached and removed from the binoculars.
OPTICAL PERFORMANCE.
The following are important for optimal image quality: brightness, image sharpness, field of view, colour
fidelity, depth of field and correction of optical aberrations such as curvature of the field of the image.
Brightness.
The brightness is determined by the exit pupil and the amount of light that passes through the lenses and
prisms, otherwise known as 'transmission'. For binoculars with the same exit pupil measurement and
differing light transmission, the latter determines the actual brightness. Measuring spectral transmission
curves requires equipment specifically designed for this purpose. The table contains the transmission values
measured. The transmission spectra in the colour range perceived by the human eye are also printed. The eye
contains two pigment systems for detecting light. In daylight, the eye uses colour-sensitive cones with
optimal sensitivity to green (550-560 nm); in low light, it uses rods with optimal sensitivity to blue (500-505
nm).
Colour fidelity.
Perfect colour fidelity from binoculars is sure to be of high importance for demanding birdwatchers. To
enable colours to be reproduced perfectly, the transmission spectrum of binoculars must ideally lie as closely
as possible within the spectral range of 500-630 nm (blue-green-yellow-orange-red). Binocular
manufacturers may achieve this by applying various different coatings. The perceived colour fidelity of the
different binoculars on test is provided in the table. You can also check this easily yourself by looking at an
even white surface through the binoculars with one eye while looking at the same surface directly with the
other eye. If both eyes are equally sensitive to colour, you will see any differences in colour directly.
Chromatic dispersion and curvature in the field of the image.
Colour defects caused by chromatic dispersion (i.e. the formation of coloured fringing in the image) impact
on image quality and the pleasure gained from observation. Some residual dispersion can be found in all
binoculars, irrespective of the quality of the binoculars' optics. However, using special colour correcting
lenses (HD, ED, fluoride-containing) can significantly reduce dispersion. The table shows the situation for
the various binoculars on test. Curvature in the field of the image causes the edges of the image to appear
unsharp while the central image is properly in focus. Straight lines towards the edge of the field of the image
also appear crooked. Using a flat field lens can compensate for this in full. Out of the binoculars on test, only
the new Swarovski EL Swarovision binoculars have an image that remains sharp right to the edges, and these
binoculars are also the only ones through which lines at the edge of the field of view remain entirely straight.
The edge-to-edge sharpness of the other binoculars varies, see table.
The field of view.
A wide field of view is important for optimal comfort during observation. This varies greatly across the
binoculars on test. The cheaper 8x42 binoculars have a field of view of 110-120 metres at 1000 metres; the
better (and more expensive) binoculars have 120-135 metres at 1000 metres. If the binoculars exhibit a loss
3of sharpness towards the edges, the entire field of view is not classed as usable. For the high quality Zeiss
Victory FL 8x42, for example, the field of view that is actually usable and sharp is smaller than the stated
field of view of 135 m/1000 m because of the unsharpness zone. Only the Swarovski EL Swarovision
binoculars remain sharp across the entire field of view, meaning that the stated field of view is also the entire
field of view displayed in full sharpness.
The shortest focusing distance.
A short focusing distance is important when observing butterflies, insects, small reptiles etc. The new
Swarovski EL Swarovision rank highest in this regard: I measured a shortest focusing distance of 1.4 metres
on the first test instrument from the preproduction and 1,5 m at an instrument from the production line.
However, some other binoculars also came close to this figure, see the table for more information.
Integrated rangefinders.
The Leica Geovid 8x42 and Zeiss Victory RF 8x45 both have integrated laser rangefinders. These binoculars
were primarily designed for hunting, although this feature may also prove beneficial for other users. The way
in which the rangefinder works is different in both instruments. The Leica Geovid has an optical system
located between the two binocular tubes that directs the mini laser (which is invisible to the naked eye)
towards the object to be measured. A small, illuminated red square in the binocular image enables the
binoculars to be aligned on the object. The beam of light reflected by the object is captured by the right-hand
objective lens and then passed to a detector via a beam splitter. The reading registered by the detector is
processed by an integrated microprocessor, which almost immediately converts the distance measured into
metres or yards. This value can then be read from digital figures projected into the binocular image.
The Zeiss Victory RF works on the same principle, although the laser beam is not emitted from an additional
binocular element. Instead, it is emitted directly from one of the binocular tubes. The reflected beam is then
captured in the binocular tube and processed in the same way as with the Leica Geovid. Hunters can also
make use of the ballistic information system provided by the Zeiss Victory: an inbuilt program that
calculates the path of a certain calibre projectile and determines the amount of correction required by the
hunter in centimetres at the distance recorded.
In terms of optics, the manufacturers of these types of binoculars are faced with certain obstacles. The use of
a beam splitter results in lost light, meaning that light transmission and actual brightness are both lower in
one binocular tube than the other. For the Victory RF in particular, this makes a perceptible difference: the
brightness in one binocular tube is noticeably lower than in the other, see also "Transmission spectra". In
addition, the coatings need to be manipulated in a way that prevents the laser light from causing problems.
The transmission spectrum consequently assumes a more idiosyncratic form than in standard binoculars.
The complexity of the rangefinder mechanism means that these binoculars also come with a higher price tag.
The Zeiss Victory 8x45 RF weighs 1,035 grams and costs € 2,845; the Leica Geovid 8x42HD weighs 960
grams and costs € 2,085. A difference in both price and weight that is sure to make potential purchasers stop
and think before making a decision. If the same high-correction optical system used in the Zeiss Victory FL
series were to be used in the Zeiss Victory RF, the price would be even higher. Zeiss therefore decided to
increase the objective lens width of the RF to 45 mm, compared with 42 mm on the FL. This enables the
larger exit pupil to compensate for the somewhat lower light transmission of the RF, increasing the
brightness of the binoculars. The rangefinder is powered by a battery, which is placed in a compartment in
the binocular housing. The rangefinder is activated by pressing a button on the binocular housing. The Zeiss
Victory displays the distance as soon as the button has been pressed; the Leica Geovid requires the button to
be pressed twice (the first time to identify the object to be measured, the second to display the distance
measured).
ACCESSORIES
The accessories supplied as standard for all binoculars are listed in the table. A strap with a wide neck
section is supplied with all binoculars. The supplied bags are generally padded to ensure that the binoculars
are well protected during transport. The bags from Swarovski are not only light, but also the most functional
ones. However, we consumers are strange persons, since Swarovski received complaints that these very
functional bags looked too cheap. Swarovski now has introduced new bags, which are also very functional
but they take a much bigger volume in a suit case. The bags for the Bushnell Elite and Steiner Discovery are
more like mini cases: robust, but very awkward to use in the field.
All manufacturers supply their binoculars with eyepiece caps. In my opinion, almost all eyepiece caps are
awkward to use, with the exception of those from Swarovski and from Zeiss. The Zeiss eye cap I refer to
here has to be ordered separately, since that model does not come standard with the Zeiss Victory’s, but a
less comfortable one is. The objective lens covers supplied with the binoculars from Leica, Swarovski and
4Zeiss fit firmly to the binoculars and are therefore very easy to use. Many of the other lens covers range from
inconvenient to very awkward in use (users should check this themselves prior to purchase).
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
Good warranty and servicing conditions are essential if your binoculars become faulty, and these differ from
manufacturer to manufacturer. In the first instance, you need to contact your retailer who will then send the
binoculars to a dedicated repairer or return them to the importer: Benel for Kowa and Meopta, De Greef &
Partner for Steiner, Swarovski Benelux for Swarovski Austria, Transcontinenta for Bushnell and Leica,
Technolyt for Zeiss, Macrolux for Vanguard, and Sights of Nature in Brugge, Belgium for the Kites.
If the repair proves too complicated for the importer, it will generally return the binoculars to the factory. It
is advisable for you to enquire about the relevant conditions prior to purchase, as well as the expected costs
and waiting periods. According to information obtained from a large number of retailers, Swarovski scores
higher than the other manufacturers in terms of service. It provides a fast service at little or no cost,
depending on the nature of the fault.
A survey of a number of dealers determined that quality can vary somewhat for binoculars manufactured in
China, which is indicative of insufficient quality control measures. The extent to which this is actually the
case naturally depends on the requirements placed upon the Chinese manufacturers by the importer. I have
heard strong rumours that the Steiner Discovery was to be manufactured in Japan or China. This is, however,
untrue. When visiting the Steiner factory in Bayreuth, Germany, I saw with my own eyes how the optics for
the Discovery are ground, polished and coated on site. All non-glass components are manufactured by a
supply company in line with specifications dictated by Steiner. Both product assembly and quality assurance
are conducted in the factory in Bayreuth. Steiner has not operated as an independent company since 2008
when it was acquired by Beretta, a large Italian firearms manufacturer.
All Vanguard binoculars are made in China and the Bushnell Elite, Kahles, Kite and Kowa binoculars are
produced by various well known Japanese binocular manufacturers. The Meopta binoculars are
manufactured at Meopta in the Czech Republic (a large, modern optical factory), Leica binoculars at Leica-
Solms in Germany and at Leica-Portugal, Swarovski binoculars at Swarovski Optik in Absam, Austria, Zeiss
Victory binoculars at Carl Zeiss-Wetzlar in Germany and the Zeiss Conquest binoculars at a Zeiss factory in
Hungary.
CONCLUSION
The test results lead to the following conclusion: Swarovski has once again set a high quality standard for its
fellow binocular manufacturers with its new Swarovision EL en SLC-HD binoculars. The EL Swarovision
binoculars combine a very high level of user comfort with outstanding optical performance: a crystal clear
image with true-to-life colours that remains sharp across the entire field of view. The cleverly designed
logarithmic focusing wheel enables fast focusing from infinity down to 1,5 metres. We investigated two
different EL Swarovisions 8,5x42, one from the preproduction and one from the actual production serries
and we noted that the instrument from the production series performed even higher than the preproduction
instrument. Swarovski's excellent customer service makes these binoculars a nightmare for many of its
fellow manufacturers. The binoculars do, however, come with a high price tag.
The new Swarovski SLC-HD binoculars also score very high because of their excellent optical performance,
high light transmission and as a result bright image in combination with a high user comfort: compact, very
good handling, nicely balanced. Colour reproduction is slightly less than we found in the new EL
Swarovisions but we understand that this was a deliberate choice from Swarovski.
As regards the binoculars with integrated rangefinders, the Leica Geovid is the natural choice owing to its
first-rate performance and considerably lower price. Hunters who require that little extra assistance can
benefit from the ballistic information system offered by the Zeiss Victory RF, which also performs
excellently. Table 1E provides a brief summary of the performance characteristics of all binoculars tested.
With thanks to:
D.J. van den Heuvel for measuring the transmission spectra. Thanks also to Benel, Hoogeveen, www.benel.nl,
De Greeff, ’s Hertogenbosch, www.degreef-partner.nl , House of Outdoor, Maarssen, www.houseofoutdoor.nl,
Leica, Germany, www.leica-camera.de , Macrolux-Vanguard, Zeewolde, www.macrolux.nl , Sights of Nature, Brugge,
Belgium, www.sightsofnature.eu, Steiner Bayreuth , www.steiner.de , Swarovski Austria and Swarovski Benelux,
www.swarovskioptik.com , Technolyt, Wormerveer, www.technolyt.nl , Transcontinenta, Nieuw-Vennep,
www.transcontinenta.nl, Vogelbescherming Nederland, Zeist, www.vogelbescherming.nl, and Carl Zeiss Sports Optics,
Germany, www.zeiss.de for providing the binoculars and information required for this investigation.
5TABLE 1A
Binoculars Prism Eyecup type Coatings used: Dioptric Watertight Adjustable
type (a) Phase correction correction and filled pupil
(b) Fully multi-coated (dpt) with dry distance
(c) Highly reflective nitrogen (mm)
mirror (on Schmidt gas
prism)
(d) Hydrophobic
coating
Bushnell Elite 8x43 Schmidt Twist-in, A, b, c, d +/- 4 ? Yes 58-76 mm
roof prism removable
Kahles 8x42 Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b, +2/-3.5 Yes 58-72 mm
roof prism removable (c?)
Kowa XD44 8,5x44 Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b, c, d +/- 4 Yes 56-74 mm
Prominar roof prism removable
Leica Ultravid 8x42 Schmidt Twist-in, A, b, c, d +/-3.5 Yes 55-75 mm
HD roof prism removable
Leica Geovid 8x42 Uppen- Twist-in, A, b +/- 3.5 Yes 56-74 mm
dahl roof removable
prism
Leica Geovid 8x42 Uppen- Twist-in, A, b +/- 3.5 Yes 56-74 mm
HD dahl roof removable
prism
Meopta Meostar Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b, c, d +/- 3 Yes 54-72 mm
8x42 roof prism removable
Steiner Discovery Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b, c, d +/- 4 ? Yes 54-72 mm
8x44 roof prism removable with
foldaway rubber
wings
Swarovski Habicht Porro Foldaway rubber B, (a and c are not +/- 3 Yes 56-72 mm
7x42GA necessary)
Swarovski EL 8,5x42 Schmidt Twist-in, A, b, c, d +/- 3 Yes 56-74 mm
(old) roof prism removable
Swarovski EL 8,5x42 Schmidt Twist-in, A, b, c, d +/- 5 Yes 56-74 mm
Swarovision roof prism removable
Swarovski EL 10x42 Schmidt Twist-in, A, b, c, d +/- 3 Yes 56-74 mm
(old) roof prism removable
Swarovski EL 10x42 Schmidt Twist-in, A,b,c,d +/- 5 Yes 56-74 mm
Swarovision roof prism removable
Swarovski 8x42 Schmidt Twist-in, A,b,c,d +/- 4 Yes 56-74 mm
SLC-HD roof prism removable
Swarovski 10x42 Schmidt Twist-in, A,b,c,d +/- 4 Yes 56-74 mm
SLC-HD roof prism removable
Kite Forest 8x42 Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b, +/- 4 Yes 57-72 mm
roof prism removable
Kite Petrel 8x42 Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b +/- Yes 57-72
roof prism removable
Zeiss Victory FL Abbe- Twist-in, A, b, d (c not +/- 4 Yes 54-76 mm
8x42 König removable necessary)
roof prism
Zeiss Victory RF Abbe- Twist-in, A, b, d (c not +/- 4 Yes 54-74 mm
8x45 König removable necessary)
roof prism
Zeiss Conquest 8x40 Abbe- Twist-in, non- A, b, d (c not +/- 4 Yes 54-74 mm
König removable necessary)
roof prism
Vanguard Endeavor Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b, c, d +/- 4 Yes 58-72 mm
8x42 roof prism removable
Vanguard Spirit Schmidt Twist-in, non- A, b, d +/- 4 Yes 53-72 mm
10x42 roof prism removable
6Table 1B
Binoculars Weight Shortest Number of Measured Measured Calculated
(grams) focusing focusing wheel exit objective magnification
(1) distance rotations from pupil P lens V=O/P
(metres) shortest focusing (mm) diameter
distance to (2) O (mm)
infinity
Bushnell Elite 8x43 647 g 2,2 m 1,75 5,3 mm 42,7 mm 8,0x
Kahles 8x42 720 g 2m 1,25 5,25 mm 41,9 mm 8,0x
Kowa XD 44 8,5x44 949 g 1,9 m 1,5 5,1 mm 43,7 mm 8,6x
Prominar
Leica Ultravid HD 761 g 3m 1,25 5,35 mm 41,7 mm 7,8x
8x42
Leica Geovid 8x42 961 g 5m 1,6 5,1 (left) 41,95 mm 8,2x
with integrated 5,1 (right) 41,85 mm 8,2x
rangefinder
Leica Geovid 8x42 954 g 5,5 m 1,75 5,1 (left) 41,95 mm 8,2x
HD with integrated 5,1 (right) 41,95 mm 8,2x
rangefinder
Meopta Meostar 899 g 2,5 m 1,75 5,25 mm 41,7 mm 7,9x
8x42
Steiner Discovery 856 g 2m 1,6 5,3 mm 43,6 mm 8,2x
8x44
Swarovski Habicht 724 g 3,4 m 1,25 6,1 mm 42,0 mm 6,9x
7x42GA
Swarovski EL 8.5x42 842 g 2,4 m 1,5 5,0 mm 42,0 mm 8,4x
(old)
Swarovski EL 8,5x42 826 g 1,5 m 2,5 (Log. speed) 5,0 mm 42,0 mm 8,5x
Swarovision
Swarovski EL 10x42 778 g 2,3 m 1,5 4,2 mm 41,9 mm 10x
(old)
Swarovski EL 10x42 830 g 1,6 m 2,5 (Log. Speed) 4,3 mm 41,9 mm 9,7x
Swarovision
Swarovski 8x42 837 g 1,8 m 2 (Log. Speed) 5,3 mm 41,9 mm 7,9x
SLC-HD
Swarovski 10x42 803 g 1,8 m 2 (Log speed) 4,3 mm 41,9 mm 9,7x
SLC-HD
Kite Forest 8x42 689 g 2,0 m 1,25 5,25 mm 41,6 mm 7,9x
Kite Petrel 8x42 617 g 2,0 m 1,25 5,1 mm 42 mm 8,2x
Zeiss Victory FL 772 g 1,9 m 1,1 5.3 mm 42,0 mm 7,9x
8x42
Zeiss Victory RF 1,035 g 4,5 m 1 5,65 mm (l) 45,0 mm 8x
8x45 with integrated 5,65 mm (r) 45,0 mm 8x
rangefinder
Zeiss Conquest 8x40 789 g 2,5 m 1,6 5,1 mm 40,0 mm 7,8x
Vanguard Endeavor 699 g 3,5 m 0,75 5,4 mm 41,9 mm 7,75x
8x42
Vanguard Spirit 621 g 2,7 m 0,75 4,4 mm 41,7 mm 9,5x
10x42
(1) Weight: Binoculars without strap, eyepiece cap and lens cover. Together, these weigh an average of 100
grams. This must be added to the weight of the binoculars during use.
(2) Measurement conducted using a Ramsden dynameter.
7TABLE 1C
Binoculars Field of Transmission Colour Eye Suitable for: Loss of
view (a) night (500 fidelity relief (a) spectacles edge
(m/1000m) nm) (mm) (b) skiing sharpness
(b) day (555 nm) goggles
Bushnell Elite 8x43 124 m (a) 83% Pinky-red 19.5 (a) Yes Yes
(b) 88% cast mm (b) No
Kahles 8x42 110 m (a) 79% Pinky-red 19 mm (a) Yes Low
(b) 82% cast (b) Moderately
Kowa Prominar XD44 122 m (a) 77% Pinky-red 18.3 (a) Yes Yes
8,5x44 (b) 81% cast mm (b) No
Leica Ultravid 8x42 130 m (a) 83% Good 15.5 (a) Yes Yes
HD (b) 86% mm (b) No
Leica Geovid 8x42 125 m Right: Good 18 mm (a) Yes Low
BRF with integrated (a) 74% (b) Yes
rangefinder (b) 81%
Left:
(a) 80%
(b) 84%
Leica Geovid 8x42 HD 125 m Right: Good 18 mm (a) Yes Low
with integrated (a) 80% (b) Yes
rangefinder (b) 85%
Left:
(a) 80%
(b) 84%
Meopta Meostar 8x42 137 m (a) 73% Yellow 17 mm (a) Yes Yes
(b) 79% cast (b) No
Steiner Discovery 130 m (a) 81% Good 20 mm (a) Yes Yes
8x44 (b) 81% (b) No
Swarovski Habicht 114 m (a) 86% Perfect 14 mm (a) Yes Yes
7x42GA (b) 86% (b) No
Swarovski EL 8,5x42 130 m (a) 82% Good 18 mm (a) Yes Low
(old) (b) 85% (b) No
Swarovski EL 8,.5x42 133 m (a) 89% Perfect 20 mm (a) Yes No
Swarovision (b) 90% (b) No
Swarovski EL 10x42 110 m (a) 79% Good 15 mm (a) Yes Low
(old) (b) 80% (b) No
Swarovski EL 10x42 112 m (a) 84% Perfect 20 mm (a) Yes No
Swarovision (b)86% (b) No
Swarovski 8x42 SLC- 136 m (a) 89% Good 18,5 (a) Yes Low
HD (b) 92% mm (b) No
Swarovski 10x42 110 m (a) 87% Good 16 mm (a) Yes Low
SLC-HD (b) 90% (b) No
Kite Forest 8x42 114 m (a) 81.5% Good 19.5 (a) Yes Yes
(b) 84.5% mm (b) No
Kite Petrel 8x42 115 m (a) 80% Good 18 mm (a) Yes Yes
(b) 83% ? (b) No
Zeiss Victory FL 8x42 135 m (a) 88% Good 16 mm (a) Yes Yes
(b) 92% (b) No
Zeiss Victory RF 8x45 125 m Right: Good 16 mm (a) Yes Low
with integrated (a) 78% (b) Moderately
rangefinder (b) 75%
Left:
(a) 87%
(b) 83%
Zeiss Conquest 8x40 120 m (a) 81% Good 16 mm (a) Yes Yes
(b) 85% (b) No
Vanguard Endeavor 114 (a) 84% Pinky-red 17 mm (a) Yes Low
8x42 (b) 89% cast (b) No
Vanguard Spirit 10x42 105 m (a) 78% Pinky-red 16 mm (a) Yes Yes
(b) 81% cast (b) No
8Table 1D
Binoculars Operation at minus Feel in the Chromatic Warranty Price
10-20 Celsius Hand Dispersion (euros)
Bushnell Elite 8x43 Focus: No Reasonable Yes, edge of 30 years 999
field of view
Kahles 8x42 Focus: Difficult Good Low ? 1029
Kowa XD44 8,5x44 Focus: Difficult Good Low 5 years 1099
Prominar
Leica Ultravid 8x42 Excellent Good Low 10 years 1949
HD
Leica Geovid 8x42 + Excellent Very good Low 10 years 2049
integrated rangefinder
Leica Geovid 8x42 HD Excellent Very good Very low 10 years 2085
+ integrated
rangefinder
Meopta Meostar 8x42 Excellent Good Yes 10 years 899
Steiner Discovery Centr. Focus: Yes Good Yes 10 years 1449
8x44 Eyepiece focus: No
Swarovski Habicht Centr. Focus: No Very good Low 10 years 930
7x42GA
Swarovski EL 8,5x42 Focus: Yes Outstanding Very low 10 years 1970
(old)
Swarovski EL 8,5x42 Focus: Yes Outstanding Very low 10 years 2260
Swarovision
Swarovski EL 10x42 Focus: Yes Outstanding Low, at edge 10 years 2070
(old) of image
Swarovski EL 10x42 Focus: Yes Outstanding Very low 10 years 2370
Swarovision
Swarovski 8x42 SLC- Focus: Yes Outstanding Very low 10 years 1960
HD
Swarovski 10x42 Focus: Yes Outstanding Very low 10 years 2055
SLC-HD
Kite Forest 8x42 No Good Yes, edge of 10 years 769
field of view
Kite Petrel 8x42 No Good Yes, edge of 10 years 445
field of view
Zeiss Victory FL 8x42 Excellent Good Low, at edge 10 years from 1899
of image Zeiss + 20 years
from importer
Zeiss Victory RF 8x45 Excellent Good Low, at edge 10 years from 2845
with integrated of image Zeiss + 20 years
rangefinder from importer
Zeiss Conquest 8x40 Focus: Yes Good Yes, edge of 10 years from 1099
field of view Zeiss + 20 years
from importer
Vanguard Endeavor No, totally unusable Satisfactory Yes, edge of ? 449
8x42 (strap eyelets field of view
are
obstructive)
Vanguard Spirit 10x42 No, totally unusable Good Yes, edge of ? 349
field of view
9Table 1E
Binoculars Standard accessories CONCLUSION
Bushnell Elite 8x43 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Compact, lightweight, does not feel ideal in the hand, fragile
lens covers construction of dioptric correction and strap attachment. Optical
performance: satisfactory.
Kahles 8x42 Bag, strap Compact, lightweight, feels good in the hand.
Optical performance: satisfactory.
Kowa XD44 8,5x44 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Heavy, robust, feels good in the hand and good optical performance
Prominar lens covers for the price.
Leica Ultravid 8x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Compact, robust, very high mechanical and optical quality. First-
HD lens covers class binoculars
Leica Geovid 8x42 + Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Heavy, feels good in the hand, quiet, bright & sharp image with
integrated lens covers large depth of field. Rangefinder remains clearly visible even in
rangefinder bright light. First-class binoculars.
Leica Geovid 8x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Heavy, feels good in the hand, quiet, bright & sharp image with
HD + integrated lens covers large depth of field, almost no chromatic dispersion. Rangefinder
rangefinder remains clearly visible even in bright light. First-class binoculars
Meopta Meostar Bag, strap Heavy, robust, feels good in the hand. Colour fidelity: too much
8x42 emphasis on yellow, making it unsuitable for critical bird watchers
Steiner Discovery Bag, strap, (soft) eyepiece cap Open bridge feels good in the hand, but somewhat less so than
8x44 and lens covers expected. Trap attachment construction works convenient but is
vulnerable. Winged rubber flaps on the eyecups: ugly and
impractical. Good optical performance. High price compared to
cheaper binoculars with similar or better performance.
Swarovski Habicht Strap, eyepiece cap Very comfortable to use (although not at minus 10-20 Celsius), very
7x42GA clear image, perfect colour fidelity, a real gem at this price.
Swarovski EL Bag, strap, eyepiece cap, lens Open bridge feels very comfortable in the hand. Comfort of use is
8,5x42 (old) covers, Snap Shot adapter excellent. Very good optical performance.
Swarovski EL 8,5x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap, Snap Open bridge feels very comfortable in the hand. Absolutely top-
Swarovision Shot adapter, lens covers, S notch optical performance. Very bright, clear image with true-to-life
colours. One of the best binoculars currently available on the market.
High price.
Swarovski EL 10x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap, lens Open bridge feels very comfortable in the hand. Comfort of use is
(old) covers, Snap Shot adapter excellent. Very good optical performance.
Swarovski EL 10x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap, lens Open bridge is very comfortable in the hand. Absolutely top-notch
Swarovision covers, Snap Shot adapter optical performance. Very bright, clear image with true-to-life
colours. One of the best binoculars currently available on the market.
High price.
Swarovski 8x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap, lens Compact, very well balanced and very comfortable to handle and to
SLC-HD covers, Snap Shot adapter use, excellent optical quality. One of the best binoculars currently on
the market.
Swarovski 10x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap, lens Compact, very well balanced and very comfortable to handle and to
SLC-HD covers, Snap Shot adapter use, excellent optical quality. One of the best binoculars currently on
the market.
Kite Forest 8x42 Bag, strap, protective eyepiece Compact, lightweight, feels good in the hand. Good optical quality
cap for the price. Unusable at low temperatures. Eyecups cannot be
removed by the user
Kite Petrel 8x42 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap Compact, very lightweight, feels good in the hand. First-rate
binoculars for the price. Unusable at low temperatures. Eyecups
cannot be removed by the user
Zeiss Victory FL Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Nice, compact binoculars. Very comfortable to use and provides
8x42 lens covers splendid optical quality. First-class binoculars.
Zeiss Victory RF Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Heavy, feels good in the hand, clear, sharp image with large depth of
8x45 + integrated lens covers field. Distance scale hard to read in bright daylight. Top-class
rangefinder binoculars. High price.
Zeiss Conquest 8x40 Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Compact, feels good in the hand, good optical quality/price ratio.
lens covers
Vanguard Endeavor Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Nice coatings, promising binoculars with lack of mechanical and
8x42 lens covers optical quality
Vanguard Spirit Bag, strap, eyepiece cap and Unsatisfactory optical and mechanical performance.
10x42 lens covers
10100
80
Transmission [%]
60
40
20 Bushnell Elite 8x43
Kahles 8x42
Kowa 8.5x44 XD
Meopta 8x42
0
500 550 600 650
Wavelength [nm]
11100
80
Transmission [%]
60
40
20
Leica Geovid 8x42 HD rechts
Leica Geovid 8x42 HD links
0
450 500 550 600 650
Wavelength [nm]
rechts = right
links = left
12100
80
Transmission [%]
60
40
20
Leica Geovid 8x42 rechts
Leica Geovid 8x42 links
0
450 500 550 600 650
Wavelength [nm]
rechts = right
links = left
13100
80
Transmission [%]
60
40
20
Zeiss Victory RF 8x45 Links
Zeiss Victory RF 8x45 Rechts
0
500 550 600 650
Wavelength [nm]
rechts = right
links = left
14100
80
Transmission [%]
60
40
20
Zeiss Conquest 8x40
Steiner Discovery 8x44
VB Arend 8x42
0
500 550 600 650
Wavelength [nm]
15100
80
Transmission [%]
60
40
20
Vanguard Endeavor 8x42
Vanguard Spirit 10x42
Vanguard Spirit 8x36
0
500 550 600 650
Wavelength [nm]
16100
80
Transmission [%]
60
40
20
Swarovski Habicht 7x42
Swarovski 10x42 EL
0
500 550 600 650
Wavelength [nm]
1718
19
20
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