This post has been interesting, and I am trying to find out more about the Bushnells.
The last review that I could find was by Allbinos on the 10x43, open frame model, and
they were well regarded, in the top 10.
I am wondering about this new model, and how it compares to the 10x43 Elite, as it appears they have been discontinued.
............
Jerry.
Jerry ..... I own the prior 10X43 Bushnell Elite and a family member owns the new Bushnell 10X42 ED Elites. I had use of the new model ED Elite for a few days and compared them to my 10X43 Elite mentioned in your post.
My impression was that there is very little optical difference in the view. The field of view, color fringing (very little), resolution, and sweet spot appeared about the same to me. The only variation I noticed between the two was in brightness. In marginal conditions, the newer ED Elite seems "slightly" brighter. You had to look for it in conditions such as shadows under a tree, etc.
Mechanically, they both seem to be of good quality. I think the strap attachments of the ED Elite are more secure and like them better than the "clip" design on my Elite 10X43. I have no idea which is the better build internally. I do wonder how Bushnell was able to drop the price so much on the new ED. Did they find cost savings in the internal construction? It does not appear that they down graded the optics.
I do like the feel and balance of my 10X43 Elite much better than the new ED. The new ED felt more front heavy.
I have considered buying the new ED, but hesitate because they are so close in their view to my 10X43 Elite. I have (for the moment) decided to wait for reviews of the yet to be released Zen-Ray Prime HD 10X42. It appears to be a totally different design (lens flatteners) and would give me more variety in the view.
The biggest complaint on both of the Elite's is their somewhat smaller field of view compared to some of the other 10X42 models. That may be a problem for someone who does a lot of panning. I primarily use a 10X for spotting particular objects that are centered in the view, so it is not an issue for me. I have no trouble locating what I want to view.
If something were to happen to my 10X43 Elite, I would buy the new ED version in an instant. With the new ED version available well below $400 in some places, it has to be one of best buys out there.
I have also had the opportunity to compare the Elites to the Swarovski 10X42 EL WB (prior non SV version). When doing a sit-down side by side comparison, I concluded the Swarovski had the better view, but it was not a night and day difference. The Swarovski had a better field of view, somewhat sharper edges, slightly better contrast and brightness, and about the same color fringing. The Swarovski, under the right conditions, appeared to have slightly more depth and a slightly better 3D effect. I think these differences would be of little significance to many in the field when hand holding and concentrating on the object being viewed. I suspect there are some sophisticated viewers that would pick up on the subtle differences and may be bothered by them. Bottom line ... all three binoculars give an excellent view.
The two Bushnell Elite binoculars I discussed are not the E2 model. As mentioned by the other posters, Bushnell has created a lot of confusion concerning the Elite line by assigning the Elite name to the E2. They made it even worse by using the same model number for the new ED model, but just adding an "ED" to the end of the number.
If you decide to buy the new ED model, be sure of what you are getting. Some of the vendors are as confused as the consumers. One vendor (Natchez Shooter Supply) has the "Elite" on sale right now with the E2 description but with a picture of the new ED model. There was no Bushnell model number specified. I called and found out it was the E2 and they said they will correct the photo (but have not as of this AM). Confirm the Bushnell model number with the vendor. The new 10X42 ED has a model number of 620142ED (Made in Japan) where as the discontinued 10X42 E2 model number is just 620142. The model number of my discontinued 10X43 open bridge Elite is 624201 (Made in Japan).
As a final comment, I also have the 8X42 (gas filled) "Bausch & Lomb" Elite as mentioned in the post by Kimballcorson. I basically agree with his impression. Although the Bausch & Lomb is a great binocular, the "Bushnell" labeled Elite models are a small notch better. I would also be tempted to get a pair of the 12.5X50's that he has, if I come across a smoking deal.
Please post a follow-up if you end up getting the new Elite ED.