The best you've ever seen (1 Viewer)

[OPTIC_NUT]

Something about that combination.
Actually, there's something about 8-8.5 actual degrees, whether it's at 6x, 7x, 8x...
Seems to have just the right amount of information.
I noticed (for the first time) how the Fury has the same power, aperature, focusing, diopter, and size...
and weight...and how it (like the Meo ) is discontinued..hmmm.

 

[brocknroller]

For me, out of what *I've* owned and used, the best overall would be the Zeiss 8x42 HT's. No question. For optics only, the Nikon SE 8x32 are hard to beat but for me they're a bit awkward to use (have to be held just so and barrels are a bit short for me to hold they way I like to hold binoculars). However, for about a third the price of the HT's (depending on what you find - new or used), they're really incredible.

I had the same problem with the SEs. A pair of Bushwacker or Butler objective covers will extend the barrels. The 8x SE takes #6 Bushwackers. The problem is that Bushwacker no longer makes covers with a 90* angle bend, they fold completely back, which is fine for riflescopes, but not for bins. You can cut off the end caps like I did with the Bushwackers on my 8x30 EII (same problem there, "stubby" barrels).

Brock

 

[bh46118]

It has been speculated in the past that they are the same basic unit, a fact I can't confirm. I bought two pair of the Fury on closeout for $130 each, and consider them one of the best purchases I've ever made.

Something about that combination.
Actually, there's something about 8-8.5 actual degrees, whether it's at 6x, 7x, 8x...
Seems to have just the right amount of information.
I noticed (for the first time) how the Fury has the same power, aperature, focusing, diopter, and size...
and weight...and how it (like the Meo ) is discontinued..hmmm.

 

[WriterCJ]

Based on my experience with the 10x42 model, which is "Top of the Pops" among all the 10x bins I've tried, the 8x42 SLC-HD would probably be my favorite roof. Unfortunately, it's another discontinued bin!

After I buy Mull of Kintyre owl's 551 8x32 SE, and have my pig feet jar's full again, I'll make you an offer.

Brock

Have to concur that my Swaro 10x42 SLC HD is still the best binocular I've ever had the pleasure of looking through. Never looked through an 8x but imagine they'd be up there and then some too!

It's a shame Swaro elected to "downgrade" the SLC with their latest update. ||

About to return the 8x32 EL Swarovision I have on loan -- which offers an absolutely stunning view if you don't mind slight rolling ball when panning in some situations. Brightness and contrast second to no other roof prism I've used -- but still not a fan of the EL twin hinge design and, when push comes to shove I find the view through my SLC HD more natural.

10x42 Leica Ultravid HD, 10x42 and 8x42 Vortex Razor HD (latest model), the 10x42 Meopta Meostar B1 HD and the 8x42 Nikon EDG II all nipping at the heels of the Swaros, but for me not quite matching them. Very little in it though... and your mileage will vary.

Next tier would have to be a friend's old pair of 8x32 Leica Trinovids, a pair of 8x32 Nikon Porros (owned by the same friend), the excellent Meopta Meostar B1 8x32 and the superb (but little known) 8x30 Kite Lynx HD -- which was a real surprise when I reviewed it recently.

Of course the view through any binocular at this level is a very subjective thing, and a matter of personal preference... great to hear what other people think... thanks to the OP for starting a really interesting thread!

 

[Nessus]

My best are my 10x42SE and my 8x32FL. Best I ever looked through? Zeiss 10x56 fL and the Leica ultravid 12x50.

 

[Torview]

Lots of votes going to the Nikon SE` on this thread, pretty amazing considering the development money spent on top roofs, just look at the predicted price of the SF.

The 8x32SE really is a superb benchmark.

 

[bh46118]

As the OP, I haven't commented on the best I've personally seen, but I would probably say the latest EL 10X42 SV.
I currently have a Kowa Genesis 8.5X44 that I'm giving a whirl, and they are very nice for sure, but they are still a notch below the BP10X44BP in transparency, resolution, transmission and 3D view. I thought the Kowa had them beat on a quick first look, but when I had them side by side, the Porro magic just couldn't be denied. I hope to do a direct comparison to the SV, HT, Edge, SLC HD at some point. Maybe I already have my favorite binocular.

 

[jremmons]

As the OP, I haven't commented on the best I've personally seen, but I would probably say the latest EL 10X42 SV.
I currently have a Kowa Genesis 8.5X44 that I'm giving a whirl, and they are very nice for sure, but they are still a notch below the BP10X44BP in transparency, resolution, transmission and 3D view. I thought the Kowa had them beat on a quick first look, but when I had them side by side, the Porro magic just couldn't be denied. I hope to do a direct comparison to the SV, HT, Edge, SLC HD at some point. Maybe I already have my favorite binocular.

Interesting, I got a chance to try the BD 8x44 BP and I thought it was decent for its price but nothing even close to the Genesis I now have, and was bested by the 8x42 McKinley I had on hand at time, particularly in sharpness and color fidelity. This is why everyone should try before buying (or buy with a good return policy) as everyone's eyes pick up on such different optical properties.

 

[bh46118]

Hi Justin

The Genesis is an excellent binocular, and I am thrilled that they are working for you so well.

Interesting, I got a chance to try the BD 8x44 BP and I thought it was decent for its price but nothing even close to the Genesis I now have, and was bested by the 8x42 McKinley I had on hand at time, particularly in sharpness and color fidelity. This is why everyone should try before buying (or buy with a good return policy) as everyone's eyes pick up on such different optical properties.

 

[Uhu74]

Have to concur that my Swaro 10x42 SLC HD is still the best binocular I've ever had the pleasure of looking through. Never looked through an 8x but imagine they'd be up there and then some too!

It's a shame Swaro elected to "downgrade" the SLC with their latest update. ||

In what way do you think they "downgraded" the SLC? The only thing I can think of, is the loss of the close focus. My last gen SLC focuses down to ~2m. The new SLC also makes use of HD/ FL glass. The salesman at the store where I bought mine told me he even found them to be a little bit better than the SLC HD.

 

[NDhunter]

Lots of votes going to the Nikon SE` on this thread, pretty amazing considering the development money spent on top roofs, just look at the predicted price of the SF.

The 8x32SE really is a superb benchmark.

Tor:

The SE is a nice landmark. It is my reference standard for comparison.
The 8x32 is very special, and the 10x42 is great but now does have some competition.

I like flat field optics, and the SE 12x50 is a very nice model, but I have
not compared many others as they are not out there.

The Nikon EDG is right at the top, and I have not mentioned the Swarovskis that I am acquainted with, they are also at the highest level.

I do not use the word "best" in my binocular vocabulary, as it is a very
subjective description, and I do not have a favorite.

Jerry

 

[bh46118]

I just can't get past the flat, compressed look of the roof prism view. The depth and three dimensionality of my BD is so much more real looking to me. I've read that the SLC has a strong dose of 3D ?

Lots of votes going to the Nikon SE` on this thread, pretty amazing considering the development money spent on top roofs, just look at the predicted price of the SF.

The 8x32SE really is a superb benchmark.

 

[Chosun Juan]

Which binocular has the best pure optics of any you have seen. Would it be Porro or roof, - 8, 10, or 12X, - Nikon, Leica, Swarovski, Zeiss,- or something else ?

Thanks Bruce

Bruce, this may be a little difficult to answer, and given your history, my eventual pick so far, and further suggestions may not surprise you.

Short answer is that none of the bins I have had extended time with, shorter periods (borrowed etc), or viewed briefly, satisfy me completely in every area.
I have spent short amounts of time with SV's, FL's, EDG's, and a brief squizz at an HT. I ain't got much truck with Leica's (ER too short). Important disclaimer.... As such, they haven't all been put to the test under all conditions and circumstances. All exhibit many fine qualities in individual areas: Brightness, Sharpness, Colour Rendition, Clarity, CA control, Contrast, Glare control, Field Characteristics /FOV, ER /Ease of View .... but none really puts the whole kit and kaboodle together IMHO, especially for the $$.

I like the SV's life-like colour rendition, sharpness, edge qualities, and ER /ease of view.
I like the FL's brightness, CA control. Ditto the HT. There is a nice "clarity" to the A-K prisms.
I like the EDG in many of the above ways, especially field - but not the reddish bias.

If I could, I would have the Brightness, and clarity of the HT, the ER, and colour rendition of the SV, the field characteristics of the EDG, and the contrast, glare control, CA handling, and Sharpness of the best of them ..... In 8.5x43 with the FOV of a Swift, weight of a Minox and the price of a Conquest HD!

I have more extended use under all circumstances of the Zen ED3, Prime HD, and the Swift Audubon 8.5x44 ED. None of these cuts the mustard in all areas, although they exhibit many superb qualities - the equal of the Alpha's. In some other areas, they fall woefully short (notably glare control, field characteristics, contrast).

My pick thus far? .... the Swift Audubon ED. Superb "Clarity" - a real transparent quality, brightness, and CA control. Being a Porro man you will know exactly what I mean. The drawbacks are as I have detailed extensively in the relevant thread.

I r-e-a-l-l-y want a 9x50 HT ..... so my search will continue (I'm hangin' to gets me a gander at a 10x54 HT), but where to from here for you?

I would suggest you would love the Zeiss HT 'clarity' and brightness, so that is one I would definitely check out. I would pit it against the new Zeiss SF, which is promising big things. There's probably never been a better time of optical performance than now. Good luck!


Chosun :gh:

 

[bh46118]

Thanks for that entertaining post. Lots of food for thought here.

Bruce, this may be a little difficult to answer, and given your history, my eventual pick so far, and further suggestions may not surprise you.

Short answer is that none of the bins I have had extended time with, shorter periods (borrowed etc), or viewed briefly, satisfy me completely in every area.
I have spent short amounts of time with SV's, FL's, EDG's, and a brief squizz at an HT. I ain't got much truck with Leica's (ER too short). Important disclaimer.... As such, they haven't all been put to the test under all conditions and circumstances. All exhibit many fine qualities in individual areas: Brightness, Sharpness, Colour Rendition, Clarity, CA control, Contrast, Glare control, Field Characteristics /FOV, ER /Ease of View .... but none really puts the whole kit and kaboodle together IMHO, especially for the $$.

I like the SV's life-like colour rendition, sharpness, edge qualities, and ER /ease of view.
I like the FL's brightness, CA control. Ditto the HT. There is a nice "clarity" to the A-K prisms.
I like the EDG in many of the above ways, especially field - but not the reddish bias.

If I could, I would have the Brightness, and clarity of the HT, the ER, and colour rendition of the SV, the field characteristics of the EDG, and the contrast, glare control, CA handling, and Sharpness of the best of them ..... In 8.5x43 with the FOV of a Swift, weight of a Minox and the price of a Conquest HD!

I have more extended use under all circumstances of the Zen ED3, Prime HD, and the Swift Audubon 8.5x44 ED. None of these cuts the mustard in all areas, although they exhibit many superb qualities - the equal of the Alpha's. In some other areas, they fall woefully short (notably glare control, field characteristics, contrast).

My pick thus far? .... the Swift Audubon ED. Superb "Clarity" - a real transparent quality, brightness, and CA control. Being a Porro man you will know exactly what I mean. The drawbacks are as I have detailed extensively in the relevant thread.

I r-e-a-l-l-y want a 9x50 HT ..... so my search will continue (I'm hangin' to gets me a gander at a 10x54 HT), but where to from here for you?

I would suggest you would love the Zeiss HT 'clarity' and brightness, so that is one I would definitely check out. I would pit it against the new Zeiss SF, which is promising big things. There's probably never been a better time of optical performance than now. Good luck!


Chosun :gh:

 

[Chosun Juan]

Thanks for that entertaining post. Lots of food for thought here.

Bruce,

Lots of potential to "fix" the shortcomings, and upgrade other areas of the Swift Audubon 8.5x44 ED too!

A real alpha slayer could be had for less than Zeiss Conquest HD money, if only someone would get fair dinkum about the brand and products ..... a real missed opportunity sitting there ....

I notice you've said elsewhere that the 10x42 SV "blew you away" .... I think a three way duke out between the Swaro SV, Zeiss SF, and HT is on the cards! Ca-ching! $$ |8.|

If the SF really does have a 120m Fov @ 1km, it should be quite a shock to your BD 10x44 trained eyes!

Good luck!


Chosun :gh:

 

[bh46118]

If I had all three together at the same time, I would probably stew myself into a heart attack. :-O

I think a three way duke out between the Swaro SV, Zeiss SF, and HT is on the cards! Ca-ching! $$ |8.|

Good luck!

Chosun :gh:

 

[Troubador]

My first good guitar was a top of the line Rickenbacker ($$$$) and my best sounding guitar was a Gretsch Nashville ($$$$). When maturity overtook ego, I learned an Epiphone Casino ($) was just right for my needs. :-C

Bill

Bill

I've had Strats including American Standard and a Gibson ES-335. Guess what won my heart?

Telecaster! :king:

Lee

 

[brocknroller]

As the OP, I haven't commented on the best I've personally seen, but I would probably say the latest EL 10X42 SV.
I currently have a Kowa Genesis 8.5X44 that I'm giving a whirl, and they are very nice for sure, but they are still a notch below the BP10X44BP in transparency, resolution, transmission and 3D view. I thought the Kowa had them beat on a quick first look, but when I had them side by side, the Porro magic just couldn't be denied. I hope to do a direct comparison to the SV, HT, Edge, SLC HD at some point. Maybe I already have my favorite binocular.

Try an 8x30 EII. I must warn you that after looking through the 51* AFOV porthole view of the Minox BPs, you could develop agoraphobia moving up to a 70 AFOV. So better to ease into the EWA by first starting with the WF 60* AFOV 8x32 SE.

Fagetabout the roofs. As you've already discovered, it will cost you multiples more to get as good a view through a roof as it does a good quality porro and you lose the 3-D effect.

<B>

 

[bh46118]

Brock

Is the image of the 8x and 10X EII inferior to their SE counterparts ? CA improvement over the BP along with larger FOV would be very nice.

Try an 8x30 EII . I must warn you that after looking through the 51* AFOV porthole view of the Minox BPs, you could develop agoraphobia moving up to a 70 AFOV. So better to ease into the EWA by first starting with the WF 60* AFOV 8x32 SE.

Fagetabout the roofs. As you've already discovered, it will cost you multiples more to get as good a view through a roof as it does a good quality porro and you lose the 3-D effect.

<B>

 

[Hermann]

Is the image of the 8x and 10X EII inferior to their SE counterparts ? CA improvement over the BP along with larger FOV would be very nice.

I personally find the 8x32 SE optically quite clearly better than the EII. Brighter, better resolution in the centre, slightly better when viewing against the light. The EII isn't bad, the SE is better.

Hermann