[jgraider]

How do the Kowa Genesis binos stack up optically (8.5x44/10/44) to the Zeiss FL, Swaro EL, or Nikon EDG? I realize ergonomics have alot to do with personal preference, but I'm just talking strictly optics for now. Thanks for the info.

[stereotruckdriver]

Originally Posted by jgraider

How do the Kowa Genesis binos stack up optically (8.5x44/10/44) to the Zeiss FL, Swaro EL, or Nikon EDG? I realize ergonomics have alot to do with personal preference, but I'm just talking strictly optics for now. Thanks for the info.

Jgraider, I asked a similiar question awhile back but, it was about the 8x33 version. Not alot of current users of them? I was looking for a good upgrade in that format. I really like Kowa and thought these might of been the cat's meow! I like the BD's but I don't feel they are any better optically than what I already had. Bryce.

[Tero]

The thing that may keep people away is the weight
http://www.eagleoptics.com/binocular...5x44-binocular

Plus, if they say they will ignore weight, then they want a Big 3 name.

[John Russell]

Opticallythe Kowas are superb but they weigh as much as many 50mm bins and the eyecups are uncomfortably large for non-glasses wearers.
See this test:-http://www.holgermerlitz.de/kowa85x44.html

John

[kristoffer]

The 33mm version is not heavy and optically excellent. I´m not sure if the 33m has "rolling ball" (i did not see it). I really like the 33mm Genesis, but I prefer the ergonomics of the Zeiss FL 8x32 and it is as good optically as the Kowa.

[Kevin Purcell]

The Holger Merlitz paper uses Kowa as an example of a company that doesn't add much pincushion (especially in the 30ish mm bins). So some rolling ball might be expected (depending on the user).