The Barr & Stroud Series 5 8 x 25 Pocket Binocular Review. (1 Viewer)

[Dipperdapper]

Hello Everyone,

Please find a link to my recent review of the all new Barr & Stroud Series 5 8 x 25 pocket binocular:

Product Review: Barr & Stroud Series 5 8 x 25 Pocket Binocular. | Neil English.net

Kind Regards,

Neil.

 

[yarrellii]

Neil, very complete and interesting review, thanks for all the effort and work you put into it. I wasn't aware of this model (I usually only come across large objective B & S binoculars). I'm interested in getting a foldable 8x25, and I'm checking stats, specs and reviews. If I may ask you, given that you've tested many 8x25 models, if you had to do a list from 1st to 5th (or 10th!) favourite 8x25 binoculars, how would that go? I'm intrigued by the 8x25 Nikon Trailblazer/Sportstar and the reverse porro Travelite (although these have the notable inconvenience of heavier weight and single hinge/bulkier design).
Thanks for any input, and congrats again for your reviews, they're always a pleasure to read.

 

[Dipperdapper]

Hello Yarrellii,

Thank you very much for your kind feedback. It's always a pleasure testing binoculars out; a real labour of love!

In terms of overall performance, I would rank the top 7 foldable pocket binos I've personally tested as follows:

1. Leica Ultravid BR 8 x20
2. Leica Trinovid BCA 10 x 25
3. Leica Trinovid BCA 8 x 20
4. Zeiss Terra ED (Japan) 8x 25
5. Barr & Stroud Series 5 8 x 25
6. Opticron Aspheric LE WP 8 x 25
7. Zeiss Terra ED(China) 10 x 25

As you mentioned, there are other affordable options if you move to a different design, such as the Pentax Papillio II 6.5/8.5 x 21.

I wasn't very impressed with either the Nikon Travelite EX 10 x 25 or the Vortex Vanquish 10 x 26:

Two Compact Reverse-Porro Binoculars Compared. | Neil English.net

Too many issues with both of those!

With best wishes,

Neil.

​

 

[Stevenkelby]

Hello Yarrellii,

Thank you very much for your kind feedback. It's always a pleasure testing binoculars out; a real labour of love!

In terms of overall performance, I would rank the top 7 foldable pocket binos I've personally tested as follows:

1. Leica Ultravid BR 8 x20
2. Leica Trinovid BCA 10 x 25
3. Leica Trinovid BCA 8 x 20
4. Zeiss Terra ED (Japan) 8x 25
5. Barr & Stroud Series 5 8 x 25
6. Opticron Aspheric LE WP 8 x 25
7. Zeiss Terra ED(China) 10 x 25

As you mentioned, there are other affordable options if you move to a different design, such as the Pentax Papillio II 6.5/8.5 x 21.

I wasn't very impressed with either the Nikon Travelite EX 10 x 25 or the Vortex Vanquish 10 x 26:

Two Compact Reverse-Porro Binoculars Compared. | Neil English.net

Too many issues with both of those!

With best wishes,

Neil.

​

Thanks Neil. Do you intend to review the new swarovski curio 7x21?

 

[Dipperdapper]

Hiho Steven,

I must admit it's very tempting! But with a house full of gear to review at the minute, I think my wife would divorce me if I were to buy in one right now lol.
I may be able to wangle something though!

Best wishes,

Neil.

 

[Stevenkelby]

Neil, if you buy an orange one I'll buy it from you (in advance) when you're done with it, if you'll ship it to Australia.

PM me if you're interested!

Best,

Steve.