Want to get 10x42 EL, but have reservations (1 Viewer)

[etc]

All the reviews of 10x42 EL are great on this forum.

Now I use a 8x Leica as a general purpose bino and I like it but many times I have wished I had a greater power. I do like its field of view, depth of field, it's window-like optics and the overall ease of use, (all the reasons why 7x is so popular) but often wish I could zoom a bit more.

Can 10x be a general purpose bino?

I've read all the articles on the matter and am deeply aware of the increased shake, is it possible to learn to hold it steady? Also I do realize it's less bright than 8.5x42 and maybe has more Chromatic abberation.

I've always assumed that 8x or 8.5 power would outnumber the greater 10x power but it seems just the other way around - 10x is more popular.

 

[edwincjones]

I've always assumed that 8x or 8.5 power would outnumber the greater 10x power but it seems just the other way around - 10x is more popular.

?
edj

 

[postcardcv]

I've always assumed that 8x or 8.5 power would outnumber the greater 10x power but it seems just the other way around - 10x is more popular.

That's certainly not the case over here - I work in an optics shop and 8/8.5x bins out sell 10x by ~10:1.

 

[etc]

That's what I heard elsewhere, too. Must be a reason for that.

 

[soareyes]

KOWA 8.5x44 prominar chap! consider before you buy a-n-other

 

[lucznik]

Can 10x be a general purpose bino?

Yes.

 

[lucznik]

That's certainly not the case over here - I work in an optics shop and 8/8.5x bins out sell 10x by ~10:1.

Must be a cultural thing. I've read numerous times that (at least in the USA) 10x binoculars routinely outsell all other magnifications combined.

 

[Jim M.]

but many times I have wished I had a greater power. I do like its field of view, depth of field, it's window-like optics and the overall ease of use, (all the reasons why 7x is so popular) but often wish I could zoom a bit more.

I know what you mean, and that is why I have taken to carrying my scope around more often than I used to--even when just looking for small land birds. But I find that often when I want more magnification, even 20x is not enough to get sufficient detail, and I have to zoom in further. So I have become skeptical that a mere increase to 10 power would be worth the other drawbacks you mention. But I am sure others would disagree, and I am sure this issue has been discussed at length in other threads.

Best,
Jim

 

[Sancho]

At one time I used 10x42 EL as my general-purpose bino. Then I got 8x32 EL, and that took over. Various reasons, boil down to greater FOV, brighter, lighter and more compact, and better in woodland. But the 10x EL can certainly be used as a general-purpose bino, if you like. It's superb, and if the weight gets to you, get a binocular-harness.

 

[Jim M.]

Must be a cultural thing. I've read numerous times that (at least in the USA) 10x binoculars routinely outsell all other magnifications combined.

That is surprising. But I would be more surprised if it would also be true for those who purchase binoculars primarily for birding. I think hunters prefer 10x, and I would assume astronomers would also -- at least if they use anything with that low a power. So aggregate figures may not be reflective of birders' preferences.

Jim

 

[Robert / Seattle]

That's what I heard elsewhere, too. Must be a reason for that.

Re: 8s outselling 10's -- Could cost be a partial factor?

I use 10s as my all purpose and have no problem with handshake. Simply test on a resolution chart, or comparable, with any 8 vs.10, and see if you're a contender for handheld 10s. If so, it will complement you current 8x optics admirably.

But the 10x EL is a large instrument. Might want to consider the Ultravid - Quite compact for it's punch.

 

[talon_dfa]

My first binos (many years ago) were 10X, which I purchased assuming that all things being equal, magnification would always be most important.

I suspect many people follow that same logic (or lack therof) when buying binos...

I still prefer 10X when observing from a vehicle or when stationary (ie. raptor migration site), but prefer 8X or 6X when I am moving around.

FYI
several 10x EL at auction:
http://www.binoculars-and-scopes.or...x42&catid=28179,31710&submit=search&advanced=

 

[josika]

I have the Leica 8x32 BA and the 10x42 EL. On long walks and in woodland areas I use the Leica's and on shorter walks or in more open areas I prefer the EL's. If I was restricted to a single binocular it would be a very hard choice, with a slight preference for a top 8x32.

 

[edwincjones]

as stated above, most Astronomers do like the 10X better

edj

 

[Alexis Powell]

aggregate figures may not be reflective of birders' preferences.

I think Jim's point about the aggregate is valid. Based on my interactions with the general public (leading beginning bird walks, teaching ornithology to undergrads), the most common binoculars are 7x35 models from the 1970s that they acquire from their closet or their parents'/grandparents' closets. If they have a more modern binocular it is usually a $25 pocket roof model. Second most popular modern choice are $100 full-sized porros in 12x or 16x. Birders and birdwatchers with newer glass usually have 8x42 or 10x42. There was a time, not so long ago (1980s) when the Zeiss 10x40 Classic was ubiquitous among elite birders in the USA. My understanding is that it really boosted the popularity of 10x, and when these folks replaced their binos they often selected 10x. The 7x42 Classic, which came along later, helped reverse the influence of the 10x Classic. These days, I see mostly 8x models but 10x are still very popular among "serious" birders. I much prefer 7x or 8x.

More importantly, I rarely make selections based on what is popular and I advise others not to as well unless it's a matter of attaining compatibility or readily available service.

--AP

 

[jimibird]

I use my EL 10x42's as my everyday all rounds bins, I prefer them to my 8x32's as I love the extra punch they give. I am besotted by them, I dont mind admitting. Very sad I know.

 

[Sancho]

I use my EL 10x42's as my everyday all rounds bins, I prefer them to my 8x32's as I love the extra punch they give. I am besotted by them, I dont mind admitting. Very sad I know.

Not sad at all. Very wise. The extra punch is great. If you can handle the weight and bulk (and they are easy to hold, comparatively, 'cos of the design), then you're doing the right thing......using what's best for you!

 

[Sancho]

A thought occurs to me, etc., if you like the EL's....have you had a look at the 10x32 EL? Smaller, lighter, same handling as the 8x32 but perhaps a very satisfactory compromise. I think it's got wider FOV than the 10x42 also. For my purposes, when I want extra punch I use Canon IS 12x36 (which are very light). They also make 10x30, and last week I had my first ever look through the Canon's top-glass 10x42 IS "L-Series". Unbelievable image, rocksteady. Not for me though, I found them heavy and awkward to hold.

 

[doug el10x32]

Hi ETC,

I recently traded 'up' my EL10x42's for a pair of the EL 10x32's and do not regret the choice......Lighter weight, smaller size, wider FOV etc etc.........

Doug.........