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ZEISS DTI thermal imaging cameras. For more discoveries at night, and during the day.

Looking for mid-range 8x32s (1 Viewer)

Another quick update. The eyecups on the B3 are absurdly easy to remove, and adding a spacer considerably improves viewing comfort for me in terms of eye placement and blackouts. They have regular threading and just twist off counter-clockwise after the stop. I haven't figured out how much width I can get away with yet, but the diameter is about 29.5mm. A black square o-ring would fit right in and look like it came from the factory that way.

I have to say though, I don't understand why so many manufacturers are using eyecups that are just a bit too short in this size of binocular. It's such a common complaint, and it's not like a few mm extra would make any real difference. At least Zeiss actually addressed the issue with the Conquest 8x32.
If you want perfect eye cup extension length try a Nikon EDG 8x32 or a Zeiss 8x32 FL.
 
And, the member has purchased some - helpful to occassionally read the latest post but denco does enjoy promoting his beloved Nikon EDG at every opportunity.
 
The o-rings I ordered arrived today. There's a little slot at the base of the eyepiece threading you can see in my previous photo, and they're a perfect fit; they extend the eyecups just enough to let me settle them comfortably into my eye sockets without major blackouts, and the action and click stops function perfectly. I wouldn't call it a comfortable view compared to the Viper HD, but that's to be expected, and I'm very happy with the result.

Now I can actually give the Mavens a proper workout, but I think it's safe to say I'll be keeping them. With spring just around the corner I had a good time watching a great blue heron and some beavers today. It's nice to have something I can easily tuck into a hoodie or coat pocket, and I don't even mind the chintzy drawstring bag since it doesn't increase the size much (I also ordered the hard storage case which is nicely made). Overall I still definitely feel they're well worth the price difference over the M7.

For reference, the o-rings are M2 x 29 (i.e. 29mm ID, 33mm OD), just standard Buna-N.
 

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The o-rings I ordered arrived today. There's a little slot at the base of the eyepiece threading you can see in my previous photo, and they're a perfect fit; they extend the eyecups just enough to let me settle them comfortably into my eye sockets without major blackouts, and the action and click stops function perfectly. I wouldn't call it a comfortable view compared to the Viper HD, but that's to be expected, and I'm very happy with the result.

Now I can actually give the Mavens a proper workout, but I think it's safe to say I'll be keeping them. With spring just around the corner I had a good time watching a great blue heron and some beavers today. It's nice to have something I can easily tuck into a hoodie or coat pocket, and I don't even mind the chintzy drawstring bag since it doesn't increase the size much (I also ordered the hard storage case which is nicely made). Overall I still definitely feel they're well worth the price difference over the M7.

For reference, the o-rings are M2 x 29 (i.e. 29mm ID, 33mm OD), just standard Buna-N.

Thanks for the o-ring tip! Planning to try adding them to mine as well.
 
I’m dragging up this old thread to say thanks for posting it. I’m looking for the same thing, a smaller format 8x30. The discussions here have been very helpful. I tried a set of the Kowa 6.5x32 BDII and wasn’t impressed so I sent them back. I think I’m going to wait for for a used pair, or a sale/discount on the Maven 8x30.
 
The GPO Passion ED 8x32 (390 euros) would be a good choice if you are looking for a fair priced 8x32. Performance data/test report can be found on the WEB-site of House of Outdoor.
Gijs van Ginkel
 
There is a new Monarch M7 8x30 coming out next month. $480 from Nikon. There is a post about it in the Nikon forum
 
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