Zeiss victory pocket model 8x25B*T vs. current 8x25 model (1 Viewer)

[fazalmajid]

Could you please elaborate? Is it because it makes the folded up package thicker?

Yes, that hinge is very thick.

 

[SanderBird82]

I think the VP8x25 single hinge design is great....making it more ergonomic, but it is significantly bigger. (It is also a superb optic).
Therefore i don't consider it to be a pocket bino, and I may as well take an 8x30 instead, for that reason alone.
That awkward dual hinge design of the 8x20's /7x21's allow a superb compact bino.... real pocketablility
Horses for courses....
I chose the 8x20's ....if i want compact, then the smaller the better.
8x25 a bit too middle ground for me.... but Zeiss have built a great small binocular.... apart from the daft case.

I you already have a 8x30/32. I would not buy a 8x25, but then the smaller 8x20 or 7x21 is a better combo.

If you have a 8x42/10x42 than a 8x25 is a good combo i guess.

 

[NatureLover123]

I don’t understand why the stiff case of the VP 8x25 is a problem at all for some people. Its not a bug its a feature: It allows to keep the bino with your IPD setting protected to be carried in a bag or attached to your belt. You can also keep it on your neck with the case on when the case is partially closed, because that’s a shame that they do not offer official rain guards and objective covers.

When not in use and always carried in a backpack (that’s the idea of a „always have with you“ binocular, when you don’t carry a bigger one right now).

I also think when carried in the case with setup IPD and diopter, it puts less danger to the diopter wheel. I had no issues with it, yet. Since 4 years of use.

Yes, the optics are a dream for that small package. You have it always with you and available to not miss the next Black Kite that popped up from nowhere. So you are always ready to bird, even if you did not plan to bird and just wanted to go to a restaurant or do shopping in the town.

 

[SanderBird82]

I don’t understand why the stiff case of the VP 8x25 is a problem at all for some people. Its not a bug its a feature: It allows to keep the bino with your IPD setting protected to be carried in a bag or attached to your belt. You can also keep it on your neck with the case on when the case is partially closed, because that’s a shame that they do not offer official rain guards and objective covers.

When not in use and always carried in a backpack (that’s the idea of a „always have with you“ binocular, when you don’t carry a bigger one right now).

I also think when carried in the case with setup IPD and diopter, it puts less danger to the diopter wheel. I had no issues with it, yet. Since 4 years of use.

Yes, the optics are a dream for that small package. You have it always with you and available to not miss the next Black Kite that popped up from nowhere. So you are always ready to bird, even if you did not plan to bird and just wanted to go to a restaurant or do shopping in the town.

I agree. The case is very good.

 

[NatureLover123]

I forgot to mention that the single hinge design fits my big hands perfectly. But it is indeed designed for right handed people.

They should offer a left handed version and also offer to all their models a hard case AND soft case.

 

[NatureLover123]

And when you are on a business trip by plane (no planned birding) you can take it in your hand luggage easily and keep your IPD and diopter settings.

 

[SanderBird82]

And when you are on a business trip by plane (no planned birding) you can take it in your hand luggage easily and keep your IPD and diopter settings.

Why would you want te keep your IPD settings? It takes 1 sec. to put it back in your position right?

 

[NatureLover123]

Why would you want te keep your IPD settings? It takes 1 sec. to put it back in your position right?

I am lazy 😅, and when I would change the setting each time, then it might loosen the stiffness of the hinge in the long run. Just move it when its needed. 😂

 

[NatureLover123]

For example for my 10x32 SF the IPD setting is crucial for the best viewing experience. I set it up once and forget it and just use the binocular.

 

[GrampaTom]

Why would you want te keep your IPD settings? It takes 1 sec. to put it back in your position right?

Yes but easier with single hinge. Not a biggie.

 

[mwhogue]

I forgot to mention that the single hinge design fits my big hands perfectly. But it is indeed designed for right handed people.

They should offer a left handed version and also offer to all their models a hard case AND soft case.

Agree. I'm right hand dominant and the asymmetrical single hinge design allows me to hold and focus the VP using only my left hand when desired. As always, YMMV on this front.

You can also keep it on your neck with the case on when the case is partially closed, because that’s a shame that they do not offer official rain guards and objective covers.

No worries. The Opticron compact rainguard and objective covers fit the VP like a bespoke glove.

Mike

 

[SanderBird82]

I only use rainguard sometimes.
No objectieve covers.

 

[Winchester44]

Leica for build, handling.......but I think the Curio just edges it optically. 3mm ep instead of 2.5.
But you would need to side by side them to see the difference, individually they are both awesome.
Be aware the twin hinge design takes some getting used to.... you need to value the small size to make it worth it.... or else go for the VP8x25.
Swaro do a CL 8x25, twin hinge, nice middle ground, but I had these, and they didn't hit the 'pocket' criteria enough, and were left at home too many times.
I'm on my 3rd Leica 8x20. sold them as they are quite fiddly, missed them, so bought again, and then again..... i'll keep these now...can't do without them...
Cycling, paddleboarding, city breaks, concerts....
I fitted some nitrile rings to get the eyecups at halfway, and this made a HUGE difference in use.
Here are some photos of how I keep mine, the lowepro bag for when in a rucksack, or the car, and then an Oakley glasses case for my pocket.
The Oakley cases won't scratch the lenses should they touch.
As you can see.... they fit the 'pocket criteria' no problem at all.View attachment 1634290View attachment 1634289View attachment 1634288View attachment 1634287View attachment 1634285View attachment 1634286

This is great! Which Leica is this one?

 

[Rg548]

This is the Ultravid 8x20.
However my mate couldn't get on with the Ultravids, and bought the Trinovids.
The Trinovids are actually a fraction smaller, but no Aquadura coating, smaller focus wheel, slightly smaller FOV, and not so close focussing as the Ultras.
Optically they are closer than I was expecting, but all these little things add up, and I prefer the Ultras.
The view allround is a small notch up.... but the Trinovids are very good indeed...as you would expect.

 

[Rg548]

I also appreciate the single hinge design of the Victory 8x25, I compared it for an hour with the CL 8X25 and it was not difficult at all to decide to keep the Victory. Of course, from an ergonomic point of view it is a very personal matter, it seems that the single hinge design is not for everyone.

I would imagine that nearly everyone would agree that the single hinge design is a better solution on any bino.... significantly less hassle than 2 hinge.
That 2 hinge design ONLY wins for compactness... and nothing else on my opinion.
I have Leica twin hinge 8x20 as i prioritise size when dealing with 'pocket binos', but those Zeiss 8x25 are significantly easier to use... no question.
For me... its properly small or not at all.... and then a big jump up to my 8x42's

 

[mekidear]

I would imagine that nearly everyone would agree that the single hinge design is a better solution on any bino.... significantly less hassle than 2 hinge.
That 2 hinge design ONLY wins for compactness... and nothing else on my opinion.

Perfect bins for me are 8x25 single hinge (stiffer the better)

Not really pocketable but hung round your neck and slipped inside your jacket, you hardly notice they are there. Easy to pull out when you need them and no messing with IPD.

The only downside is the FOV which is much better on the VIctory 8x25 - I would love a pair - one day

 

[Winchester44]

Has anyone used the Nikon HGL 8x20?

 

[CSG]

I've had the earlier 10x25 Victory BT model for years. They are a bit challenging to use as the eye cups are small for me but I carried them for years around my neck with the bins comfortably sitting in my shirt pocket. I love the design and ergonomics of them and find the optics to be razor sharp. I have not seen the new versions in person.

 

[Winchester44]

I went ahead and took a risk on a used pair of Nikon HGL 10x25 for $300. I may regret not going with the Germans, but reviews seem to compare very favorably with the Leica Ultravids

 

[Rg548]

Please report back when they arrive.
Buying used means you can either keep a bargain, or move them on at probably no loss if you don't get on with them.
FWIW my Leica were 2nd hand at £400..... as new, all accessories etc.
Its a sensible option if you're careful.