Leupold Yosemite 8x30

[FrankD]

It would seem your prayers have been answered gentleman. I just received my latest edition of Birdwatchers Digest and in it is an advertisement for the new 6x30 and 8x30 Leupold Yosemites. Nothing else is mentioned in the advertisement so I would take it that the actual physical dimensions of the binocular are the same. I am curious about the field of view. I would be hopeful for something in the 380-400 foot range but believe I am being optimistic.

Included below is the advertisement.

[nctexasbirder]

incredible! i already have 6x though...

[FrankD]

If the price remains within $20 of the original I think they will again sell quite well.

Hmm, only one post after a full night on the forums....everybody must be getting ready for the holidays. :-)

[ceasar]

I wonder what kind of FOV it has? My guess is that they will need a couple of 15mm Erfle type Oculars to get a truly wide field. I don't know what these will cost or how much distortion is acceptable.
Bob

[FrankD]

My prediction.

370 foot field of view
Equal level of edge distortion to the 6x version
Cost of $120 for those places that sell the 6x at $100

[MacGee]

It would seem your prayers have been answered gentleman. I just received my latest edition of Birdwatchers Digest and in it is an advertisement for the new 6x30 and 8x30 Leupold Yosemites.That doesn't look to me like an ad for a new version; it looks like an ad for the old version. Or am I missing something?

Michael.

[FrankD]

The advertisement in terms of terminology, pictures, etc... does appear identical to the previous ads. The only change is the mention of the Yosemite being offered in both 6x30 and 8x30 configurations. It was only offered in the 6x30 configuration originally.

In addition, I finally spoke with one retailer that heard of the new configuration and suggested an availability date of mid-January.

[Alexis Powell]

I called Leupold and was told that there will be an 8x30 Yosemite, that they don't have specs yet, but that the specs will be published in the new product catalog that is coming out in the next week or so.
--AP

[FrankD]

Cool. Thanks Alexis.

[Tero]

If they are lighter than my 8x40 Action EX, I'm interested.

[MacGee]

The advertisement in terms of terminology, pictures, etc... does appear identical to the previous ads. The only change is the mention of the Yosemite being offered in both 6x30 and 8x30 configurations. It was only offered in the 6x30 configuration originally.

In addition, I finally spoke with one retailer that heard of the new configuration and suggested an availability date of mid-January.I see. Shutting up now.

Michael.

[FrankD]

I see. Shutting up now.

Michael.

......|=)|

[eetundra]

Leupold did right by introducing the 6x first. They generated great interest in a forgotten configuration and sold a lot of binoculars, the Yosemites and others, because of the talk generated by it. Had they introduced a 8x and 6s at the same time just how many would have even looked through the 6x, but now there are a great many who rave about them and a good portion of those folks will probably end up with the 8x version as well. Tada, two sales for Leupold. They probably learned from the Katmai that the 6x could be good but nobody looked at it next to the 8x.

[Alexis Powell]

Hmmm.....I'm not as cynical about the motivations for the 6x configuration of the Yosemite--it makes more sense to me that it was a result of deliberate design winning out over what conventional wisdom would suggest is most salable, though the 6x configuration was also essential for distinguishing the Yosemite from what was once a more common breed (the 8x30 porro), thus allowing for its niche product status and advertising. Nothing else about the Yosemite was/is really all that special (similar spec 8x past/present porros from Nikon, Celestron, Swift had/have similar minimum IPD). I'd have been much more impressed with the Yosemite as a kids' bino if it had a 6 foot (or better) close focus--kids like to look a nearby objects as much or more so than distant ones.
I wonder now what the fate of the 6x Yosemite will be...I predict their virtues are not recognized by the vast majority of buyers, that sales plummet (buyers won't be able to resist the 8x), and that they are discontinued within a year or two.
--AP

[ceasar]

You can make a Porro close focus to 6 feet or so but you will probably lose the stereo effect to the annoying overlapping view using 2 eyes gives you at that close distance and be limited to the use of one eye. This probably isn't important to kids, but it won't impress adults much. My Eagle Ranger Platinum 6 x 32's roof prism's close focus to less than 4 feet, but there is alot of overlapping view from 5 feet in. A user with a narrow IPD will have less trouble with the overlap than one with a wider IPD. Because the objective lens of a roof prism binocular can be centered over your individual pupils you can focus closer without the overlap you will get with a Porro at the same distance.

Cordially

Bob

[eetundra]

I don't think cynical was how I was feeling. It was a smart business move. We know by now that the 6x30 is a great unit, but would so many have tried it if it had been introduced simultaneously with the 8x30? I think consumers are the cynical ones. No offense intended.

[FrankD]

A friend from another optics forum pm'ed me the specs for the 8x30 Yosemite. They are included below.....

Linear FOV 393' Angular FOV 7.5

Weight 18.5 ozs Length 4.5"

Twilight Factor 15.4

Exit Pupil 3.8mm Eye Relief 14mm

Close Focus Distance 16.4

I am going to see if I can get the specs for the rest of the models.

[Otto McDiesel]

Linear FOV 393' Angular FOV 7.5


Praise the Lord. I was afraid they'll do a 6.3'. When? When? When? When?

[FrankD]

Praise the Lord. I was afraid they'll do a 6.3'. When? When? When? When?

I haven't heard yet but I am going to call the one local distributor that said he was going to have them in before the end of this month. I, too, am happy to see the larger field of view. Does the 14 mm eye relief bother you at all?

[Otto McDiesel]

Does the 14 mm eye relief bother you at all?
No, but tunnel vision (55 degrees or less angular FOV) does. I wear glasses, but i bought them specifically to be able to lift them quickly and rest them on my forehead while using binos. I could never warm up to using binoculars and eyeglasses in the same time.

[Tero]

Close Focus Distance 16.4

I can live with that.

[nctexasbirder]

hmm, i wonder if i could use them with my glasses

[Alexis Powell]

specs for the 8x30 Yosemite.
Linear FOV 393'
Eye Relief 14mm
Close Focus Distance 16.4

Isn't it a sorry state of affairs that in our era of bino opulence that there are so few good inexpensive porros (especially 8x mid-size) that a bino with these unremarkable specs can generate so much interest?

Now we just need someone to do a comparison between this new Leupold and the new Celestron 8x32 Ultima DX which claims better optical specs (429' FOV, 16 mm eye-relief, 10 ft close focus) and costs $20 more. Maybe the review could also include the Bushnell 8x30 Natureview Plus.
--AP

[eetundra]

The downside of the Ultima DX is the weight, it is listed at a full 30 ounces! Quite hefty for a 32mm porro these days. Still, I think their main market for the Ultima line may be astronomers, and its weight is probably competitive with some of the Fujinons and Oberwerks out there.

Edit: If the weight is due to oversized prisms the view may be worth it.

[Tero]

I am beginning to see the limits of 30mm roofs. They work for me on even slightly brighter days, but when it is pretty cloudy all day, like today, there are limits. My 8x40 porro did not do much better. So is an 8x30 porro in this price class going to be as amazing as the 6x30 was? I think the 8x30 will seem much more ordinary.

[FrankD]

Possibly Tero. I have a bit of reservation of how the quality level at this price point is going to play out with an 8x bin in comparison the 6x already offered. If they can maintain the image quality in terms of sharpness and size of sweet spot, as well as quality control, then I think they will have a winner. They aren't going to rival the $1000 8x32 roofs but they should compete well against anything under $600 easily in terms of image quality.

[FrankD]

I finally found a retailer that has the 8x30s in stock. I have a pair of the natural colors on their way and should be able to comment on them shortly.

[eetundra]

(Anxiously awaiting FrankD's report)

[nctexasbirder]

(ditto)

[Tero]

Frank, get the Swift Plover as well
http://www.swift-optics.com/products/birding/eight_power/702b
then tell me which one I want. ;)

[FrankD]

You guys are killin' me. Talk about a group of binocuholics. :-)

I might as well order a pair of Celestron Ultima DXs too while I am at it, right?

;)

[ceasar]

Frank,
If you didn't do it someone else would have to, and we are grateful!
Bob :hi:

[eetundra]

Don't worry, after the trip I plan on finally getting the 6x30 and will toss on an 8x30 for good measure.

[nctexasbirder]

You guys are killin' me. Talk about a group of binocuholics. :-)

I might as well order a pair of Celestron Ultima DXs too while I am at it, right?

;)

might as well. i dont think i'll carry 30 ounces around though...

[Tero]

Action Ex 10x50 is 36 oz.
my 8x40 is 30 oz
I will carry 28-30 0z, though, if it is worth it

[nctexasbirder]

Action Ex 10x50 is 36 oz.
my 8x40 is 30 oz
I will carry 28-30 0z, though, if it is worth it

its a good thing i dont like 10x! ;)

you might have the forearm strength, but my arms are like spindly string beans lol

[FrankD]

Later today gentleman...later today.

[;)]

[nctexasbirder]

Later today gentleman...later today.

[;)]

TODAY!? :D

[nctexasbirder]

well? wheres the review?

[Tero]

I try to compare a few bins inside, but nothing compares to the outside. It is only thursday...saturday would be good.

[nctexasbirder]

well, he said today, but oh well. i can wait

[FrankD]

I did receive them but did not get home to try them out until around 4:30 pm. The temps were hovering in the high teens and fogging of the eyepieces was a major issue.

I did not experience anything unexpected. Optical differences between the 6x and 8x include:

- noticeably larger apparent field of view in the 8x
- less depth of field and a smaller exit pupil both promoting a slightly less relaxed image in the 8x
- just a slightly dimmer image in the 8x
- percentage of image with edge distortion seems about equal between both bins
- I do seem to notice slightly more pin-cushion distortion with the 8x's when panning. I am not sure if this is the result of the increased magnification, increased apparent field of view or just a quality control issue with this particular unit.

To summarize, the 6x and 8x are physically identical. All of the differences you would expect to find between a pair of 6x and a pair of 8x binoculars is here with these two bins. Those are all of my early impressions at this point. I would like to get my hands on a pair of 8x36 Monarchs to see how the two compare side by side. I have a general impression that the Yosemites are going to offer an image with more clarity because of the porro prism design but that should come as no surprise to any of you. A comparison of edge distortion between the two bins would also interest me further.

My conclusion would be that the 8x30s should be just as popular, if not more so because the 8x magnification is more sought after, as the 6x30 Yosemites.

[Tero]

I checked out indoor tests with my 8x32 roofs. I looked at a bookcase across the room. The edge third or so is clearly out of focus. Then I looked at the shelf with my 10x42 roofs, Monarch. The field is clear closer to the edge. But the number of books clearly in focus on the shelf was exactly the same. With the 8x32 I would spot more birds on the periphery, thus "get on the bird" faster.

I just need those 9x32s to solve all my problems.

[nctexasbirder]

i looked at the Celestron Ultima DX 8x32 online. it looks promising, as it is WP, Bak-4, FMC, over 400 FOV...but 30 ounces!? i probably wouldnt be able to hold them up for more than 30 seconds at a time! i dont know if Academy will carry them....maybe the Outdoor World in Fort Worth? If the image was worth it, i might consider them....

of course it would be a rock solid binoc, esp. in the car it wouldnt move around as much....

:brains:

[Tero]

I guess I won't offer to sell you my 8x40 Action EX then...

[nctexasbirder]

PM me about it and i'll see

[eetundra]

Now what we need is a 10x35 Yosemite, and how about a 9x35 for Tero.

I'm sure he would say miellyttää and kiitos!

[John from Scappoose]

Hmmm.....I'm not as cynical about the motivations for the 6x configuration of the Yosemite--it makes more sense to me that it was a result of deliberate design winning out over what conventional wisdom would suggest is most salable, though the 6x configuration was also essential for distinguishing the Yosemite from what was once a more common breed (the 8x30 porro), thus allowing for its niche product status and advertising. Nothing else about the Yosemite was/is really all that special (similar spec 8x past/present porros from Nikon, Celestron, Swift had/have similar minimum IPD). I'd have been much more impressed with the Yosemite as a kids' bino if it had a 6 foot (or better) close focus--kids like to look a nearby objects as much or more so than distant ones.
I wonder now what the fate of the 6x Yosemite will be...I predict their virtues are not recognized by the vast majority of buyers, that sales plummet (buyers won't be able to resist the 8x), and that they are discontinued within a year or two.
--AP

Sorry to jump in so abruptly. I just thought I might be able to help with a few open questions I read here.

I appreciate the ascription of such savvy marketing foresight to the creation of the 6x30mm. Actually, it was created primarily out of love and an idealistic father's hope for the future. I did it for my five year old daughter. Along with a long time friend and collegue (father of a five year old son) we began it as a vest pocket project - we did it primarily out of a simple desire to make a good binocular that would allow everyone (not just adult men - the usual physical size parameter models for most traditional binocular designs) to use binoculars successfully and comfortably.

Yes, it was from what I learned during the Katmai project. I have long thought the Katmai 6x32mm one of my best projects until the Yosemite. The Yosemite breaks the barrier of IPD limitation hindering effective use - just ask most women; over 60% can't comfortably use standard traditionally sized binoculars.

The Yosemite 8x30mm was a natural follow on model. The popularity of the Yosemite 6x30mm has been remarkable. The 8x30mm is now released with high expectations that it too will be well received.

As to the 6x30mm falling away - I surely hope not. Too many people, especially beginners and young people, would be deprived of a great introduction to watching wildlife - be it birds or what have you - without the wide field and ease of use offered by the 6x design.

Again, sorry for breaking in uninvited. I'm not trying to be a marketing wonk here or cramp the conversation. Actually, I'm not even involved in marketing any longer. The Yosemite was simply one of my best, and last projects. It is something of which I shall always be proud. I hope those of you who use them enjoy them. (Criticisms, if there are any, are actually much better received than you might expect.)

Cheers,
John

[eetundra]

John, thanks, and come back often. Again was not trying to be cynical about the 6x first but I have a marketing background and I see things a little differently when I look at ads. Your story is much better!

[Alexis Powell]

Dear John from Scappoose,
No need for apologies--quite to the contrary, it's really a thrill to have this opportunity to hear from/communicate with a binocular creator on this forum! I'm sure you can tell from my previous post that I am not being critical of the Yosemite so much as being wistful that a binocular with its specs should be viewed as a novelty, particularly since there were similar sized binos with similar minimum IPD in the past. Even so, the Yosemite is a great binocular, and superior to its nearest extinct equivalents in a couple of important respects--it is lighter in weight and has much better eye-relief. As a binocular fanatic whose wife has an IPD of 54 mm and two kids (ages 3 and 6) I've made many posts on bird forum to try to generate interest in and awareness of the IPD design spec issue. Why is it that there are so VERY few reverse-porro compacts or roof-prism binos (other than pocket models) with a minimum IPD under 56 mm? A reverse porro like the Pentax 6.5x21 would be an awesome kids bino (super close and easy focus, nice weight and size in the hand) if only it had a smaller minimum IPD. And when it comes to roof-prisms, it drives me crazy that only Zeiss has begun to design binos with minimum IPD under 56 mm (the 32 mm FL have a 52 mm IPD and the 42 mm FL and Conquest models a 54 mm minimum IPD), but maybe the other manufacturers will follow suit--I hope so.
Again, thanks for bringing the 6x30 Yosemite into the world, and best wishes,
Alexis

[FrankD]

Wow, I think it is great that this forum attracts some of the key folks behind binocular design and advertising from the various manufacturers.

John,

I would like to just say "thank you" for desiging the Yosemites. They are an excellent little bin. I enjoy using them and my 5 year old son loves them.

To everyone else,

After a few days of use with the 8x30s I think you folks are going to love them. They offer many of the same benefits of the 6x30s with that added bit of magnification. I really wish I could really relax with a pair of 8x30-32's in the same manner that I do with the larger glasses. In this regard I actually believe I prefer the 6x30 model. I am sure there will be consumers from here on out that look at the Yosemite line and instantly choose the 8x model because of the higher magnification but then you run into that with just about any binocular line. If Leupold were to come out with a 10x then I am sure many folks wouldn't even consider the 8x or the 6x versions. They do not know what they are missing out on.

I do not believe I have ever said this before but I think I have too many binoculars. Anyone interested in the 8x30s?

[FrankD]

I am going to take back my last comment/question. Up until today my usage of the 8x30s was limited to in and about my home. I had been using them to look at the feeders in the backyard and at various objects within my home. As several folks were so keen to point out you really cannot evaluate a bin until you take it out into the field....and that I did today.

I birded with them for about an hour along one of the popular rail-trails nearby. My biggest concern, that of the perceived increased amount of distortion, did not prove to be an issue whatsoever out in the woods. To be honest, I think I actually prefer them to a majority of the other 8x30-32 mm binoculars I have owned. The image is fairly bright, and very crisp. The focus speed isn't as fast as many of the 8x32 roofs currently on the market which is actually a big plus for me. I find several of the 8x32 roofs too fast in their focusing. The Yosemites not only have just the right amount of focusing tension but also the correct speed as well.

Before some of you invest in $300-$400 8x32 roofs I would highly suggest trying the Yosemite 8x30s first. These bins are entirely comparable to the 8x32 Pentax SPs with slightly less color fringing and a bit more edge distortion.

Lastly, I still need to get rid of some bins so instead of selling the Yosemites I decided to sell one of my Meoptas, the 10x50, and my Leica Trinovid 7x42. The former has already found a new owner but the latter still needs a good home. ;)

[eetundra]

Frank, I'd imagine it was cold outside. How did the Yosemites handle the change in temperature? Did they resist internal fogging? Was the focus wheel still smooth?

Edit: Could someone who owns one, either model will suffice, measure the diameter of the objective barrel? Just curious.

[Tero]

I think they need to invent a new format for these small end bins, a 7.5x30. To get the wide field and almost 8x power. ;)

[Otto McDiesel]

Edit: Could someone who owns one, either model will suffice, measure the diameter of the objective barrel? Just curious.

42.03 mm at the rim

[Otto McDiesel]

I think they need to invent a new format for these small end bins, a 7.5x30. To get the wide field and almost 8x power. ;)

they already did that with the 8x30s and the 8x32s

[eetundra]

42.03 mm at the rim

Thanks.

[mayoayo]

7X 30 sounds good.....100$ sounds good..... fully multicoated sounds good.....7x 26 custom are terrific.......expensive too....... 6X 30...?.......8X 30........YOU REALLY NAILED IT WITH THE 7.5X 30..reversed?..Fully-multi,BAK4,7.7˚,16mm ER,.....100$!!!!!!!

[Alexis Powell]

FrankD,
So as positive as your review is, it doesn't sound like the Leupold 8x30 Yosemite is the replacement that the world needs (in my opinion!) for the late Nikon 8x30 EII. Every time I get out my EII, I find it optically better than I tend to remember. In direct comparison with the premium 8x32 roofs it is certainly their equal or superior optically. What I tend to forget is that the reportedly fuzzy outer edge of the view is not really very fuzzy, and the high quality portion of the image is comparable in size to that of the premium roofs. What I also forget is how much better the EII is than models such as the Nikon Action EX line (and similar models like the discontinued Bausch & Lomb 8x42 Discoverer porro), which have poor performance against the light (leading to much compromised contrast) and quite a smeary view outside the very center field. The EII often sold for under $250 new and must rank as one of the best binos for the $ ever made.
--AP

[FrankD]

Frank, I'd imagine it was cold outside. How did the Yosemites handle the change in temperature? Did they resist internal fogging? Was the focus wheel still smooth?

It was in the mid 20's. I did not notice any difference in performance with the Yosemites under those conditions. The focus wheel might have stiffened up slightly but it was barely noticeable. There was no internal fogging and external fogging was no worse than any other bin I own. The cold weather may have actually been beneficial in one aspect. I have found that the center hinge on the Yosemite is a bit looser than I would prefer. It hasn't proved a problem at this point but I wonder if it will become too loose after extended use. The colder weather stiffened it up to the level that I felt comfortable with.

So as positive as your review is, it doesn't sound like the Leupold 8x30 Yosemite is the replacement that the world needs (in my opinion!) for the late Nikon 8x30 EII.

No, not quite. I would put the Yosemite 8x30 at the same performance level as the original Nikon E series. I have a 7x35 E to use in comparison with the 8x30 and 6x30 yosemites. Apparent brightness looks about equal between the 6x30 and 7x35. The 8x30 is just a bit dimmer, as expected. The size of the sweet spot is a bit better in the 7x35 E but it doesn't appear noticeably different in regular use. Sharpness, contrast, etc.. appear equal in all three bins.

Every time I get out my EII, I find it optically better than I tend to remember. In direct comparison with the premium 8x32 roofs it is certainly their equal or superior optically.

I would agree completely. The 8x30 EII I owned last year was the only bin I found significantly better optically than the Nikon Venturer 8x42 that I owned at the time. In difficult conditions it provided a brighter and slightly sharper image. The 8x30 EIIs image was probably my favorite of any binocular I have owned up to this point. I probably would not have sold it had it not been for the short eye relief, (I had to take the rubber eyecups off completely in order to get a sufficient level for my facial dimensions), and the ease with which it became misaligned.

Still, in reference to the Yosemite, considering we are talking about a $100 porro in today's market I think the 8x30 will be a welcome addition to some people's collection of bins or just a great starter bin for many folks. Let me take that back, I think it could be more than just a great starter bin provided the owner doesn't abuse it.

[mooreorless]

Hi Frank,Your observation of the 8x30EII being significantly better optically than a Nikon Venturer 8x42 [this is the LX model right?] is not what I found using a very good friends Nikon 8x30 EII and Nikon 8x42 LX.The Nikon 8EII is very nice but not the equal of the Nikon 8x42LX that I tried,sample variations maybe?Glad you like the 8x30 Yosemite.
Regards,Steve

[FrankD]

Hi Frank,Your observation of the 8x30EII being significantly better optically than a Nikon Venturer 8x42 [this is the LX model right?] is not what I found using a very good friends Nikon 8x30 EII and Nikon 8x42 LX.The Nikon 8EII is very nice but not the equal of the Nikon 8x42LX that I tried,sample variations maybe?Glad you like the 8x30 Yosemite.
Regards,Steve


It could be but then it could also be in reference to what I was calling "better". I know each has its strong points and that each person tends to prefer different aspects of image quality. The edge distortion was considerably worse on the EII and in that regard the LX was clearly superior. I thought color representation was more neutral in the EII, perceived sharpness seemed fairly equal with maybe a slight nod to the EII. The wide field of view coupled with the 3D effect and the more neutral color representation gave me a more noticeable effect than the LX's sharper edges. Like I said it could be just the specific characteristics I was looking for or, it could be, as you mentioned, sample variation.

[LynnTX]

[Frank,
I really appreciate your taking the time to post about your brief experience with these bins. I have been wanting to get something smaller and lighter like the Yosemite's, and these sound like they hit that sweet spot. Where I am in Texas, I often need the 8X so I looked around the net, but was unable to find any in stock so far. I don't know anyone in Dallas area that has rec'd any so I left a message with a large internet distributor- and they promised to call me when they receive their next stock.

I am definitly going to give them a try. I might even order the 6X30's as well, but I am undecided about those - and I honestly believe I need the 8X most of the time.

Thanks again,
Lynn

[mooreorless]

Hi Frank,I didn't get to use these side by side but was going by using resolution charts [USAF 1951 chart] and memory.I do agree that Nikon should of never quit making the 8x30EII and that it is a excellent binocular and one that I will get some day,I hope.
Regards,Steve

[FrankD]

Steve,

And there you have it. If you were using resolution charts then the actual resolution might have been better on the LX while the EII might have just given the impression of a sharper image possibly because of the color representation. I hope Nikon someday reconsiders the EII design and updates it.

Lynn,

Glad I could help. I bought my 8x30 Yosemites at.....

http://www.shootersmart.com/site/index.php?do=display&pid=LP62525

The last I checked they still had one in natural color left.

Next up on the review block, the Vortex Razors. ;)

[LynnTX]

Frank,
I checked that site - sold out!
I left a call-back request at Eagle Optics, since I assumed they would be getting some soon. They called me today. They only got in like 2 pair in the Black, so I ordered one of them today. They were very nice to call me up like that, and hold one for me.

I'm having high hopes for these. I had ordered a Celestron Outland LX recently that were heavier, but pretty compact, only to receive them totally out of collimation. After reading some other hair-raising threads on this forum about those - I returned them for a refund.

The Yosemite sound more promising in just about every respect, but guess we will see soon. I especially like the sound of 18 ozs vrs about 28-30 ozs for many other porros of this general size.

Thanks again for your earlier postings,
Lynn

[mooreorless]

Hi Frank,I forgot to say thank you for all your binocular buying and letting us know what you think about them.Including the Vortex.Also your binocular selling.:-) You sure make this forum interesting.:-)
Steve

[FrankD]

Steve,

Its my job. No thanks are required. :-)

Seriously though I get a great deal of enjoyment out of trying out new binoculars. I make no attempt at hiding the fact that I am a hunter in addition to a birder. I was like this with archery equipment for about 10 years. I finally weened myself off of it. Binoculars are even more addicting. So many models, so many different avenues to explore and learn about. Very exciting.

Lynn,

I am glad I could help. Buying a $100 pair of porros and trying them out isn't a major issue. I make use of them even if they have a fault or two. When you start getting up and above the $1000 mark then things get a bit more serious. Even now my search continues to lead me to sub $1000 bins that perform at or near the level of the much more expensive ones. I am all about getting the most bang for the buck.

The question is, whats next? Those Pentax EDs look promising but they won't be out for awhile nor the mid-sized Meoptas. Maybe I will finally give one of those Minox HGs a go.

[LynnTX]

Frank,
I understand how hobbies can be. For years one of my hobbies has been building and playing golf clubs. To me, the research, acquisition and fine-tuning of nice equipment was all part of my enjoyment of playing golf. I have built lots of drivers especially, looking for that "silver bullet".

Now I am a casual amateur astromomer and I lurk the forums like Cloudynights.com. Some of those guys buy just about any astro product released that looks remotely promising. Talk about expensive. :eek!:

I have been on a casual quest for some inexpensive, light weight binos for nature walks and birdwatching - so I have hopes the Yosemities will meet that requirement. The high-end stuff is out of my budget, and I don't require "perfect" performance. Just decent will be o.k. with me. Only light weight ones I have at present are some Pentax 8X21, and I wanted something just a little more robust, yet rugged.

Lynn

[Tero]

....fine-tuning of nice equipment
That is a nice way to put it. I should explain it that way to my wife. I thought we were just equipment junkies. That is the way they see us and some hunters at equipment shows. The camper who has four tents and goes camping once a year.

[FrankD]

The camper who has four tents and goes camping once a year.

Hey, I resembl...uh, resent that remark. I go camping twice a year. ;)

Lynn,

I think those Yosemites will fit the bill quite nicely. I look forward to hearing from someone else that bought them at this point. I just have a feeling it was someone from here that picked up that second pair from the link I mentioned.

On a somewhat related note, I ordered a pair of the 10x42 Razors to compliment the 8x42s. If they are pleasing optically then the Meoptas will head for the auction block. ;)

[LynnTX]

Just handled them a few minutes at twilight. First impressions are quite good.
I plan to take them on a walk in the park about mid-day today and check them out. Fit and finish of the product looked quite good to me, and casual views in poor light looked sharp and easy to focus.

They have a large focus wheel that feels pretty stiff, but should not be a problem. Should be pretty easy to use with gloves, as it is oversized for the relatively compact binoculars.

Later,
Lynn

[FrankD]

I am glad to hear you are enjoying them Lynn. For $100 I would be hard pressed to be disappointed by their performance or design. I have continued to use them fairly regularly. They come in handy while I am walking the dog or just in general.

[LynnTX]

I took the new 8X30 to the park today during lunch time. Weather in Dallas is amazing again today. High 60's F and mostly sunny. I took my Pentax 8X21 also to do some side by side comparison.

Frankly, the Leupolds are delightful. Very sharp, bright view that snaps to a sharp focus with just a little effort. I viewed a pure white vinyl clad fence and gazebo in bright sun and saw no CA that I could detect. Watched my 2 pair of Mallards again in bright sun and in shadow, and still saw no false color or fringing. Plummage of the male mallards was stunning in the sun and when they turned their head, the green head turned to a shade of blue when the light hit them just right.

I watched some large groups of pigeons at least 150 yards away and could easily see them individually very sharp, with colors of white, cream, gray and charcoal grey feathers.

My friends the brown squirrels were about and frisky as usual. I could easily see the fine grain of their fur and the glint of their eyes as clear as could ever be expected. I scanned the tops of some of the 70 ft trees and examined some of the intricate details of the branches and old bird nest etc.

These binos have nice lens protectors and a better than average neck strap that is at close to 1" wide. Comfortable to use. Case is padded vinyl and very serviceable. They are marked as having a 7.2* field of view, and that was noticeably wider than the game little Pentax which I believe is 6.2*

I am very pleased with these bins and they easily perform better than their very economical price would make one expect.

Regards,
Lynn

[eetundra]

I wonder how much these will cut into the sales of Eagle Optics SRTs, Celestron Nobles, Minox BLs, and the like. Consider they appear to compete optically with binoculars up to the range of the Pentax SP they should do well. Being waterproof and compact helps.

Does anyone own an 8x30 and 8x32 roof in the under $500 range that they'd care to comment on the optics in compared to the Yosemite?

[Pileatus]

I wonder how much these will cut into the sales of Eagle Optics SRTs, Celestron Nobles, Minox BLs, and the like. Consider they appear to compete optically with binoculars up to the range of the Pentax SP they should do well. Being waterproof and compact helps.

Does anyone own an 8x30 and 8x32 roof in the under $500 range that they'd care to comment on the optics in compared to the Yosemite?
They are not as "waterproof" as the internal focus models but it's really about advertising. The few that get returned are easily replaced.

[Tero]

I wonder how much these will cut into the sales of Eagle Optics SRTs, Celestron Nobles, Minox BLs, and the like. Consider they appear to compete optically with binoculars up to the range of the Pentax SP they should do well. Being waterproof and compact helps.


All 8x are in competition with each other in this price, even the Monarch 8x36. From what I have heard, the Yosemites may not be quite as rugged as the others. If you take them on a trip as your only binocular, that is the risk you take.

[Bob A (SD)]

All 8x are in competition with each other in this price, even the Monarch 8x36. From what I have heard, the Yosemites may not be quite as rugged as the others. If you take them on a trip as your only binocular, that is the risk you take.

Tero,

Curious.... where exactly have you heard that the 8x30 Yosemites may not be all that rugged? Not trying to be adversarial here at all. Its just that I've done a LOT of on line reading while researching this model before deciding about any acquisition and I didn't see anything mentioned about possible fragility. There was some speculation about internal construction methods but.... Anyhow, I just acquired a pair and posted my thoughts in this forum under the "Thinking of upgrading to the Leupold Yosemite 8x32 (SIC)" thread.

--Bob
http://rap.midco.net/bald1/rear_tag_avitar.JPG

[Swissboy]

.... The Yosemite was simply one of my best, and last projects. It is something of which I shall always be proud. I hope those of you who use them enjoy them. (Criticisms, if there are any, are actually much better received than you might expect.)

Cheers,
John

Hello John, belated congratulations! I just got a batch of six 6x30s for our school today (shipped from the US), and I am very impressed. (I have written more about them in the 6x30 thread.) I am sure the students will love them too.

Greetings from Switzerland where Leupolds seem to be virtually unknown. Or are they marketed under some other name?

[Tero]

Tero,

Curious.... where exactly have you heard that the 8x30 Yosemites may not be all that rugged? Not trying to be adversarial here at all.

I think it was Otto McDiesel, he bought a half dozen pairs for kids. One pair had some issues.

I had a chance to compare some binoculars. I had Bushnell Legend 8x32 with me. It was sharper with wider sweet spot than the Yosemite 8x30. I also compared to Nikon Action 8x40, not EX. It was not as bright as the Yosemite but similar.

The 8x30 Yosemite reminds me most of the Eagle Optics 8x32 SRT that I still have. Sharp is the middle, sweet spot not huge, but not truly awful past the sweet spot. Both equally bright.