Hello Chuck,
Back from my 3-day excursion on the Natches Trace. The 10x42L was the Only glass I brought and overall it performed admirably out in the field. Dawn\dusk temps ranged from 16 to 26 degrees and the optics and electronics didn't miss a lick (or should I say, a great view)!
I also agree with everything that Bruce highlighted in his wonderful report. His Pros and Cons hit the nail on the head very well as the 10x42 L's have some serious optical prowess. But alas, there are 3 possible issues I've not read or heard about that I discovered while birding and glassing wildlife for 20 hrs or so this weekend. The rainguard, eye cups and IPD adjustment lobes are soft natural rubber that are "Dust Magnets"! May not be a big deal as a dry clean brush removes the contaminants, but this I've not experienced (to that degree) with my Swaros, Zeiss or Leupolds in field travels. Secondly, veiling glare reared it's ugly head one evening glassing the horizon to the West while following raptors riding the thermals about an hour before sunset. I really had to work with eye placement to minimize this, but otherwise, never saw it again. Thirdly, while using sunglasses with eye cups all the way in, I was missing about 5-10% of the FOV. Now, these shades I used are big and have maybe too much eye clearance. If I had a normal pair with me, I'm sure they would not have caused restrictions.
Otherwise like Bruce, these are the first binos that I don't extend the eye cups all the way out. The 3rd click setting gives my unaided sight a wonderful and immersive FOV that with the very nice 3D Porro II effect, gives Me a view that seems even more as-if-you're-there image over my 10x50 SV (Especially with IS on)! My IPD is 62mm and the objectives are 70mm. Compare to any of my 4 Habicht porros (6x-10x, porro I, much greater offset), the depth and 3d effect is more natural and pleasing to my eyes. Now, this could be related to the slow "close focus to infinity" of 2.75 turns, but when you get the subject locked in, the 10x42L displays typical Canon "L Glass" foreground\background bokeh that is extremely "photo" like, allowing excellent attention and depth to your subject. The slow focus could be a negative for birding, as it takes more time and effort to go from 2 to 300m+. For me, it helped to lock in a sharp focus quicker and cleaner without any misses of ID's.
Overall, the ergonomic facts (weight, bulkiness, etc.) and other quirks do not deter me from being excited about their use. Actually, loaded (all accessories attached) they are just 3oz heavier than my 10x50 SV's, about the same length but easier to hand hold for a steadier image. After 3 days and 20 hrs using the supplied bino strap, I experienced no handling issues or discomfort. For my small frame (but big hands), they have a solid heft that balances and works well for me! I'm sure they are not for everyone, but glad I took the plunge. I now know the 10x50 SV is a tad sharper, has a wider AFOV and is brighter (Yes Dennis, Still a definite keeper). However, the Canon is a unique tool for glassing enjoyment. With the 10x42L IS engaged, think of Your "Best Glass with a Built-In Tripod View"!! :eek!:
:t:
If you're yearning to try them Chuck, hard to beat the current deal and return policy at B&H (by 1-31-2017)!
Have a Blessed and Merry Christmas,
Ted