Photo by Jodi Sims
Eagle Optics 8x42 waterproof binoculars.
These binoculars are 8x magnification with 42 mm objective diameter, a measurement which refers to the diameter of the front lens. They have a "close focus" of just over 5 feet, a feature which allows magnified viewing of objects close to the observer without them being blurred. They weigh about 22 ounces, not including a carrying strap. The set used for this review has multicoated lenses, is waterproof, fogproof and shockproof. It carries a full lifetime warranty.
Perks
Birding is better with Eagle Optics
The multicoated lens offers the clearest, easiest-to-focus lens that this reviewer has tried. The amount of light let in by the 42 mm front lens allows viewing in low-light times of early morning or late evening. The combination of ample light along with the coated, easy-to-focus lens works especially well for birding because many species are most prevalent in the low-light times of day. These are advantages also for viewing birds in flight.
Sacrifices
If there is a disadvantage to this binocular it would be its weight. However, the above-mentioned features were not present in the lighter models, which did not allow in as much light or allow as large a field-of-view.
Bottom Line
The little more weight is dramatically overshadowed by the versatility and reliability of this model. With a binocular harness, these binoculars can comfortably be carried for a full day of birding with very little neck fatigue. The quality of view offered dulls that pain even more.
About The Author
David Sims has been contributing articles to several venues since 2001. His work has been published in local papers such as The Ebbtide and South County Sun along with monthly newsletters for Central Basin Audubon Society. Sims also contributes trip reports and reviews to nextstop.com, singletracks.com, trails.com, examiner.com/albuquerque, hubpages.com and his own website.
