knowmyname
New member
Hello
My first post here. I don’t think I have seen this specific issue discussed here; my apologies if I have missed it.
I am interested to hear if anyone can provide a description of their experiences comparing the NL Pure 8x42 vs 10x42 in the field. I am aware of what the numbers mean in terms of differences in magnification and FOV, but am curious to know how this translates into actual real world experience. A local birder I have spoken too loves the 8x42 model, and described them as the best he has used, but has not tried the 10x42.
I own the first generation 8.5x42 EL model – purchased in 1999/2000. They have been fabulous, and are still in great condition but I am ready to treat myself to an upgrade. (The old bins will be donated to my nephew who has a casual interest in birds). Up until the last year I would happily have replaced them with the current EL 8.5 x 42. Now though I am intrigued by the NL Pures. I have spent about 15 mins with the 8x42 and really enjoyed the feel and the view. They seemed to fit me, and my eyeglasses, very well. Because of lockdown and lack of serious dealers in my city I would have to travel some considerable distance to find a store where they have both sizes in stock to try out. Even then I’m not convinced that I could make up my mind without trying them out in a real world setting.
Most of my birding is in wooded/vegetated areas, (with spring migration in the woods being my favourite time and place) and so I feel that FOV is likely more important to me than magnification. (I use a scope in other settings when needed). My gut tells me that 8x42 would be my best choice, but there is still the nagging sense that maybe I should not write off the 10x42. (I’m not sure if I would notice the drop from 8.5 to 8 x as I think the optical quality of the NL would surpass my old EL).
So, any advice comments or thoughts would be very much appreciated
Thank you
PF
My first post here. I don’t think I have seen this specific issue discussed here; my apologies if I have missed it.
I am interested to hear if anyone can provide a description of their experiences comparing the NL Pure 8x42 vs 10x42 in the field. I am aware of what the numbers mean in terms of differences in magnification and FOV, but am curious to know how this translates into actual real world experience. A local birder I have spoken too loves the 8x42 model, and described them as the best he has used, but has not tried the 10x42.
I own the first generation 8.5x42 EL model – purchased in 1999/2000. They have been fabulous, and are still in great condition but I am ready to treat myself to an upgrade. (The old bins will be donated to my nephew who has a casual interest in birds). Up until the last year I would happily have replaced them with the current EL 8.5 x 42. Now though I am intrigued by the NL Pures. I have spent about 15 mins with the 8x42 and really enjoyed the feel and the view. They seemed to fit me, and my eyeglasses, very well. Because of lockdown and lack of serious dealers in my city I would have to travel some considerable distance to find a store where they have both sizes in stock to try out. Even then I’m not convinced that I could make up my mind without trying them out in a real world setting.
Most of my birding is in wooded/vegetated areas, (with spring migration in the woods being my favourite time and place) and so I feel that FOV is likely more important to me than magnification. (I use a scope in other settings when needed). My gut tells me that 8x42 would be my best choice, but there is still the nagging sense that maybe I should not write off the 10x42. (I’m not sure if I would notice the drop from 8.5 to 8 x as I think the optical quality of the NL would surpass my old EL).
So, any advice comments or thoughts would be very much appreciated
Thank you
PF