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Binocular ID quizz. (1 Viewer)

NDhunter

Experienced observer
United States
I am posting a picture of 2, 15X binoculars, and it is interesting to
show the difference in the color of the objective reflections, and who
wants to guess what models these are.

Since there are not a lot of 15 power models available this should
be easier.

Jerry
 

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I am posting a picture of 2, 15X binoculars, and it is interesting to
show the difference in the color of the objective reflections, and who
wants to guess what models these are.

Since there are not a lot of 15 power models available this should
be easier.

Jerry

Hi Jerry:

Two things are important:

—Much more important than the “color” of the fluoride on the lens is the thickness of the deposit, which for visual instruments should be ¼ wave of yellow/green light, about .580 microns.

—Going from magnesium fluoride to multi-coatings, you gain about 13 percent more light throughput. However, once in that realm—errant opinions notwithstanding—most people don’t have the receptors to note the difference. What they see as a better image as a result of the coatings is really the result of:

* Blackening
* Baffling
* Size and position of the field stop
* Slotted prisms, if a Porro
* Design
* Glass types
* Smoothness of the surfaces
* Complexity of the eyepiece

And a whole bunch of stuff I’m not smart enough to have a clue about. :cat:

Cheers,

Bill
 
Bill:

Thanks for those words of wisdom. We have a porro and a roof prism model here, and I have
not measured the thickness or composition of the coatings yet. One of them has ED glass and
the other does not need it.

As with most optics they both have their advantages, and it is often up to the eyes of the beholder.

I will say, SD is half right.

Jerry
 
Yes Sir the IDF used the entire Fujinon Meibo lineup (for hand held field binoculars for long range), I have seen some Fujinon roofs too
Of course most serious action is with various electro optics and mounted giants

Now I think they switched to the FMT-SX - I have seen pictures and the major privately owned optics suppliers for the military also show the FMT-SX in their selection. The ones with the striped rubber armor, not the leatherette :)
 
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Minox 15X58 ED and maybe a Zeiss ?


SD:

You were first with the correct answer to the roof prism model on
the right.

The porro model is the Docter Nobilem 15x60 B/GA. This model shares a lot
with the Zeiss 15x60 BGAT, well recognized as one of the finest 15X
binoculars ever made. Docter Optics were made after WWII in the
Zeiss Jena plant in Eisfeld, Germany, so share much in common.
Holger Merlitz has a nice article about the Docter optics and porro models.

These are still being made and there is now a armor change in the
newest models.

As far as a comparison, they are both very good binoculars, the Minox
BD 15x58 ED BR is heavy with a weight of 1,650 grams with strap and
ocular covers, and the Docter weighs 1,560 grams with an aftermarket
strap and covers.

When comparing the optics the porro design does have some advantages,
as the image appears a bit brighter at low light, and it is a little sharper
than the Minox. The Minox even though it has some ED glass, not sure
about the specs. does show more CA than the Docter.
The Minox does have an easier view and is easier to get behind with its
twist up eyecups, so that is important. The Docter eyecups are the rubber
fold down type, and not as easy for me to use.

Either one can be used handheld, but not for very long as the 15 power
makes them hard to hold steady, so a tripod is the way to go.

I often use mine mounted from my house windows which overlook some farmland
that I scout for wildlife.
These are useful for at least a mile away, for good detail.

Jerry
 

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Hi Jerry.
Are the house windows open or closed or either?

I gently rest the rubber covered front of similar binoculars on the double glazing, with great benefit in steadiness and little loss noted. Sometimes also resting on the window frame at one side also.
Sometimes with the window open and using the whole window as a firm support. Horizontal central axis opening.

I could not guess the Docter.
 
Hi Jerry.
Are the house windows open or closed or either?

I gently rest the rubber covered front of similar binoculars on the double glazing, with great benefit in steadiness and little loss noted. Sometimes also resting on the window frame at one side also.
Sometimes with the window open and using the whole window as a firm support. Horizontal central axis opening.

I could not guess the Docter.

I view through the windows. I know that is not ideal, but it works
well all year around. We were -20 F last weekend. The cold weather
is nice for very little heat haze and distortions. ;)

Jerry
 
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