Canon 15x50 and 18x50 - Protective Filters (1 Viewer)

For those with either of these models, do you use protective filters? I tend to think I would like better protection for the objectives which are a little more exposed than I like. I've been burned by bad filters before reducing image quality with photography, but is it critical with binocular use? What are your preferences, including not using protective filters?

Do you have any recommendations for inexpensive but good UV filters that do not affect the image negatively?

Thanks,
Matt

As a matter of trivia, the actual objective lenses sit behind an optical window. I use a pair of screw-on, inch long metal lens hoods. They safely keep the lenses out of harms way, reduce glare, and most important practically eliminate dew issues that can be a real problem with this bino. Some folks also feel the need for caps, either plastic snap-in or rubber flip-downs, but I don't bother with them.

cheers,
Rick

Hi Matt,

I don't use protective filters on my 18x50's, the objectives you can see moving behind the optical window. I believe that window is enough protection, as long as you take a little care of your bins.
Besides, I read somewhere on another thread that protective filters may cause condensation to form between the filter and the optical window in wet circumstances.
Some kind of tube extension like Rick described seems like a good solution if you're worried about the exposed optical window.

Regards,

Ronald

Cool, thanks guys.

Matt