Roof Prism
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How to Choose the Best Birding Binoculars
Optics workers will tell you they are often asked to recommend the best binocular for birders (bird watchers) To match the binocular to the birder it helps to first look at the needs of the birding enthusiast.
What sort of optical demands must we consider? Well for one thing the birder need to see details like the patterns and color of feathers, often in dim light such as under a tree canopy or in twilight. They need good magnification so that they can easily identify birds at a distance and sometimes they will want to observe birds at very short distances so they want their binoculars to work for close focus observing too, maybe even down to just a few meters.
They need true color viewing so they can see everything as it really is colored and not with any tint or false color. They also need a reasonable field of view so they can observe birds in flight easily and be able to pick birds out from the surrounding trees.
They want the binoculars to be light enough to carry and hang on a neck-strap. Their binoculars should be light enough to hold comfortably for viewing and easy enough on the eyes to be able to use for long periods. Birders usually want their binoculars to be compact enough to pack in a rucksack. For observing from hides they often want to use their binoculars on a tripod or mono-pod so a fitting for these adapters is advisable. If their bird watching is in the wilderness then rugged construction and some element of waterproofing and fog-proofing is also advisable.
When looking at binocular specifications we usually pay most attention to the two numbers that define the basic specifications. The first number gives us the magnification factor, so an 8x binocular magnifies an image (brings it closer) by 8 times. The higher the magnification the more difficult it becomes to use the binoculars effectively due to the natural hand-shake which makes it difficult to keep the bird in view and also the smaller the field of view will be. For birding use, an 8x binocular is the most commonly used though in some circumstances enthusiasts will use higher magnification.
The second number in the specs tells us the diameter of the objective lens. This is important for two reasons, firstly the larger the diameter the more light is captured by the binocular so the clearer and brighter the resulting image. Secondly, the larger diameter also gives a larger field of view. In the birding world, the most popular objectives are 40mm and 42mm. Getting much higher than this makes the binocular a little too heavy and large.
Other important considerations are the quality of the lenses and prisms and the optical coatings used on those elements. These coatings reduce loss of light through reflection from the binocular and its internal components and they help to preserve good clarity and true color throughput. As a rule of thumb look for Fully-Multi-Coated (FMC) coatings for bird watching use. The specification for eye relief refers to the distance between the eyepiece and the eye. Those who wear glasses will need a longer eye relief to allow for the extra distance caused by the glasses being between the binocular and their eye.
Roof and Porro Prism designs refer to the two body styles of binoculars. This difference comes about through the placement of the internal prisms within the binocular body. Roof prism types are the more compact and modern looking. Their objective lenses are more or less in line with the eyepieces, while porro prism types are the traditional style with the lenses stepped out from the line of the eyepieces. More and more birding enthusiasts are now opting for the roof prism type particularly as their quality has caught up with the porro types in recent years.
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The Best Birding Binoculars & Where to Find Them
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Roof Prism Binocular 8x42 $219.99 Waterproof hand-held binoculars fit perfectly in any handbag or jacket pocket. OVERVIEW: The Roof Prism 8x42 Binocular series of compact binoculars takes incredible BaK-4 prisms and True Color lens coatings and transforms them into a phenomenally performing optic. LENS QUALITY: These incredible binoculars provide maximum light transmission and optimal brightness, and let any outdoorsman or sports aficionado explore and enjoy their surroundings to the fullest extent. From early dawn to late dusk, the optimum color fidelity and clarity of image enhance any viewing experience, while a generously long eye relief reduces potential eye strain. STYLE: Every Roof Prism 8x42 Binocular binocular boasts a rugged, yet lightweight, rubber armored body that is nitrogen filled for the highest level of waterproofing and fog proofing possible. The Roof Prism 8x42 Binocular series is taking the ? Roof Prism 8x42 Binocular of Optics? to a whole new level. FEATURES: Rubber armored body True Color lens coatings Multicoated lenses BaK-4 roof prisms Central focusing knob Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed for 100% waterproof / fog proof / dustproof construction 8x42 and 10x42 magnifications INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Durable carrying case One-piece eye covers Easy on / off objective lens covers Neck strap |
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Roof Prism Binocular 10x42 $239.99 Waterproof hand-held binoculars fit perfectly in any handbag or jacket pocket. overview: the roof prism 10x42 binocular series of compact binoculars takes incredible bak-4 prisms and true color lens coatings and transforms them into a phenomenally performing optic. lens quality: these incredible binoculars provide maximum light transmission and optimal brightness, and let any outdoorsman or sports aficionado explore and enjoy their surroundings to the fullest extent. from early dawn to late dusk, the optimum color fidelity and clarity of image enhance any viewing experience, while a generously long eye relief reduces potential eye strain. style: every roof prism binocular boasts a rugged, yet lightweight, rubber armored body that is nitrogen filled for the highest level of waterproofing and fog proofing possible. the roof prism series is taking optics to a whole new level. features: rubber armored body true color lens coatings multicoated lenses bak-4 roof prisms nitrogen filled and o-ring sealed for 100% waterproof / fog proof / dustproof construction 8x42 and 10x42 magnifications included accessories: durable carrying case one-piece eye covers easy on / off objective lens covers neck strap |
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Roof Prism Binocular 8x32 $99.99 GREAT FOR SPORTING EVENTS AND CONCERTS. OVERVIEW: The Roof Prism 8x32 Binocular series of compact binoculars are the perfect combination of performance, quality and affordability that provide proven performance for better results where it counts? in the field! LENS QUALITY: Only the highest quality multicoated optics are used in every 8x32 Binocular, advanced with broadband technology to increase light transmission throughout the visible spectrum, resulting in truer color representation and a brighter image for the user. A wide field of view paired with a long eye relief further enhances the image being viewed while also making it easier to see objects at all distances. STYLE: The ribbed rubber armor on the 8x32 Binocular?s body not only ensures a firm gripping area but also acts as a shock absorber against dropping or everyday wear. The large, ribbed focus wheel is easy to use, even while wearing gloves; and the roof prism design makes for a slimmer, easier to handle product. The dual twist-up eye cups easily adjust to each user?s personal eye relief setting and are protected by attachable eyepiece and objective lens covers. The 8x32 Binocular is exactly what every quality and feature savvy outdoorsman needs! FEATURES: Rubber armored body True Color™ lens coatings Multicoated lenses BaK-4 roof prisms Central focusing knob Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed for 100% waterproof / fog proof / dustproof construction 8x25, 8x32 and 8x42 magnifications INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Durable nylon carrying case One-piece eye covers Easy on / off objective lens covers Special lens cleaning tissue Neoprene neck strap |
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Sharper Image 6x16mm Folding Roof Prism Binoculars $33.24 These compact binoculars from Boston Traveler deliver 6 x magnifications with a 16 mm diameter lens. These folding roof prism binoculars come with a small set-in compass and straps which allow hands-free portability.Brand: Boston Traveler Name: Boston Traveler 6x16mm Folding Roof Prism BinocularsModel: BINOMaterials: Metal with rubberized body armor for non-slip gripColor: Brushed silver/blackDimensions: 3 inches high x 2.5 inches wide x 1 inch deepWeight: 6 ouncesMagnification: 6xField of view: 472 feet at 1000 yardsSmall set-in compassIncludes cleaning cloth and carrying case |
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Compact Roof Prism Binoculars 12 x 25mm. $9.99 Lightweight and compact, these binoculars boast centre focusing and roof prism - enabling a crystal clear image. The impressive 12 x magnification allows for great range, while a neck strap and lens cloth case are both included. Optical zoom.Centre focusing.Roof prism.Lens diameter of 25mm.12 x magnification.Fold down rubber eye cups.Rubber body.Includes neck strap, lens cloth case.Weight 211g.Size H11.6, W6.7, D5cm. |
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Danubia Wildview 8x42 Roof Prism Binoculars. $102.99 The Danubia WildView 8x42 Roof Prism Binoculars are a great pair of binoculars that are designed for optimum comfort and strain-free nature observations.These 8x42 Danubia binoculars are also great for wildlife and nature viewing. The robust rubber armour provides maximum-grip.Soundless and fast-focusing of both lenses is granted by the handy centre focus wheel. Guarantee bright, brilliant and sharp images with rich contrasts.Dioptre adjustment.Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.Eyecups.Rubber body.Waterproof.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461058561.Free delivery by post |
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Danubia Wildview 10x42 Roof Prism Binoculars. $110.99 The Danubia WildView 10x42 Roof Prism Binoculars are a great pair of binoculars that are designed for optimum comfort and strain-free observations.These 10x42 Danubia binoculars are also great for wildlife and nature viewing. The robust rubber armour provides maximum-grip.Soundless and fast-focusing of both lenses is granted by the handy centre focus wheel. Guarantee bright, brilliant and sharp images with rich contrasts.Dioptre adjustment.Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.Eyecups.Rubber body.Waterproof.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461058578.Free delivery by post. |
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Danubia Milan 8x32 Roof Prism Binoculars. $125.99 The Danubia Milan 8x32 Roof Prism Binoculars are a great pair of binoculars for ambitious and professional wildlife viewing.They come in classic 8x32 design, yet are compact and ergonomically shaped. The corrugated rubber armour makes the binoculars handy, soundless and shockproof.The extra large centre focusing wheel ensures precise focus, even when wearing gloves.Centre focusing.Dioptre adjustment.Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.Eyecups.Rubber body.Waterproof.Nitrogen filled.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461059384.Free delivery by post. |
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Danubia Wildview 12x56 Roof Prism Binoculars. $178.99 The Danubia WildView 12x56 Roof Prism Binoculars are a great pair of binoculars are designed for optimum comfort and strain-free observations.They are also great for nature viewing, and for sports. The robust rubber armour provides maximum-grip for these 12x56 binoculars.Soundless and fast-focussing of both lenses is granted by the handy centre focus wheel. Bright, brilliant and sharp images with rich contrasts.Dioptre adjustment.Roof prism.BAK prism.12 x magnification.12 x optimum magnification.Eyecups.Rubber body.Waterproof.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461058059.Free delivery by post. |
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Danubia Wildview 8x56 Roof Prism Binoculars. $170.99 The Danubia WildView 8x56 Roof Prism Binoculars are a great pair of binoculars are designed for optimum comfort and strain-free observations.They are also great for nature viewing, and for sports. The robust rubber armour provides maximum-grip for these 8x56 binoculars.Soundless and fast-focussing of both lenses is granted by the handy centre focus wheel. Bright, brilliant and sharp images with rich contrasts.Dioptre adjustment.Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.8 x magnification.8 x optimum magnificationEyecups.Rubber body.Waterproof.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461058042.Free delivery by post. |
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Danubia Milan 8x42 Roof Prism Binoculars. $140.99 The Danubia Milan 8x42 Roof Prism Binoculars are a great pair of binoculars for ambitious and professional wildlife observation.They come in a classic 8x42 design and are compact ergonomically shaped. The corrugated rubber armour makes the binoculars handy, soundless and shockproof.The extra large centre focussing wheel ensures precise focus, even when wearing gloves.Centre focusing.Dioptre adjustment.Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.Eyecups.Waterproof.Nitrogen filled.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461059391.Free delivery by post. |
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Danubia Milan 10x42 Roof Prism Binoculars. $140.99 The Danubia Milan 10x42 Roof Prism Binoculars are a great pair of binoculars for ambitious and professional wildlife observation.They come in a classic 10x42 design and are compact ergonomically shaped. The corrugated rubber armour makes the binoculars handy, soundless and shockproof.The extra large centre focussing wheel ensures precise focus, even when wearing gloves.Centre focusing.Dioptre adjustment.Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.Eyecups.Waterproof.Nitrogen filled.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461059407.Free delivery by post. |
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Bushnell PermaFocus 10 x 42mm Roof Prism Binocular $69.95 BUSHNELL 171043 PERMAFOCUS 10 X 42MM ROOF PRISM BINOCULAR? 10 x 42mm ? 305' field of view ? PermaFocus ? Never needs focusing ? Fully coated optics ? Twist-up eye cups |
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Bushnell Powerview 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular $72.74 The Bushnell Powerview 8x32mm Roof Prism Binoculars offer a center focus binocular with multi-coated optics for bright, clear images. The binoculars come with carrying case, neckstrap and lens cloth.8x32mmCenter focusRoof prismsDurable black rubber armoringMulti-coated optics for bright, clear imagesTwist-up eye cupsIncludes carrying case, neckstrap and lens cloth18mm eye relief367-foot field of view at 1000-yardsDimensions: 5.75 inches long x 5 inches wide x 1.75 inches high |
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Carson 10x42mm Roof Prism Waterproof Binoculars JK-042 $103.48 Close-focus roof prism binocularsIdeal for hunting birding hiking or fishingFeature BAK-4 prisms & fully multi-coated optics for crisp clear viewing Large 42mm objective lenses gather plenty of light to ensure the viewing image is bright even in low-light conditionsSuperior close-focus capabilities allow user to focus on objects as close as 6 ft awayO-ring sealed & nitrogen purged-waterproof & fogproofTwist-up eyecups stop in 3 positions to provide optimal eye relief for all usersLarge focus wheel turns smoothly for precise focus adjustmentsIndependent right diopter adjustment makes it possible to adjust the focus to allow for strength differences in each eye |
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Tasco Sierra 12X50 Binoculars Ts1250D Roof Prism $63.95 Sierra Black Waterproof, Fogproof Binoculars - 12x50mm. Manufacture ID: TS1250D. No matter what the day has in store, our new Sierra binoculars keep foul weather out and deliver bright, crisp views with 100% waterproof, fogproof construction and premium multi-coated optics. Their rugged rubber armor protects against rough handling. Features:. - Multi-Coated optics. - Waterproof. - Inlcudes carrying pouch and neck strap. Specifications:. - Magnification: 12x. - *Field-of-View: 244ft/81 m. - Exit Pupil: 4.2mm. - Prism Type: Roof. - Weight: 29.3 oz. - Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm. - Lens Coating: Multi Coated. - Focus Type: Center. * at 1000 yards/meters Type: Binoculars |
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Bushnell / Bushnell H20 Series 8x42 WP/FP Roof Prism Binocular / 158042 $93.9 Bushnell - Bushnell H20 Series 8x42 WP/FP Roof Prism Binocular - 158042 |
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Bushnell / Bushnell H20 Series 10x42 WP/FP Roof Prism Binocular / 150142 $108.43 Bushnell - Bushnell H20 Series 10x42 WP/FP Roof Prism Binocular - 150142 |
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Bushnell 10x32mm Black Roof Prism FRP , Clam 131032C $24.99 Bushnell Powerview 10x32 Roof Folding Binoculars 131032c |
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Alpen Shasta Ridge 10 x 42 Waterproof Roof Prism Binocular $174 Alpen's 10x42 high performance Shasta Ridge Binoculars are fully waterproof, fully multi-coated, Phase coated, have long eye relief, and feature BAK4 optics that allow hunters, shooters, birders, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts clearer, brighter, viewing under all conditions. The sleek roof prism design is comfortable and more compact than traditional porro prism Binoculars. Includes premium quality neck strap, durable carrying case, and ALPEN'S lifetime warranty. |
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Danubia Rain Forest 8x42 Roof Prism Binoculars. $91.99 The Danubia Rain Forest 8x42 Binoculars offer high quality viewing in all lighting conditions. They have rubber armouring and so are durable too.The lenses in these 8x42 binoculars are multi coated, include BAK-4 roof prisms, are shock resistant, fully waterproof down to 5M underwater and are fog free.They offer a 0.25 tripod bush for tripod mounting (may need an adapter).Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.Rubber body.Waterproof.May need an adaptor.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461037528.Free delivery by post. |
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Danubia Rain Forest 10x42 Roof Prism Binoculars. $95.99 The Danubia Rain Forest 10x42 Binoculars offer high quality viewing in all lighting conditions. They have rubber armouring and so are durable too.The lenses in these 10x42 binoculars are multi coated, include BAK-4 roof prisms, are shock resistant, fully waterproof down to 5M underwater and are fog free.They offer a 0.25 tripod bush for tripod mounting (may need an adapter).Roof prism.BAK prism.Fully multicoated.Rubber body.Waterproof.May need an adaptor.Includes carrying case and a neck strap.EAN/Barcode 4000461037535.Free delivery by post. |
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Leupold BX-2 Acadia 8x42 Roof Prism Binoculars Black 111746 $219.71 BX-2 Acadia Roof Prism Binoculars - 8x42mm, Black. Manufacture ID: 111746. BX-2 Acadias™ are lightweight, ergonomic roof prism binoculars that are both affordable and offer the Leupold-quality optical performance you demand. Features:. - Ergonomic roof-prism design is slim, lightweight, and fits well in any size hands. - The Multicoat 4® lens system ensures brightness, clarity, and optimal contrast, even in low light. - Phase coated roof prisms significantly increase resolution for a sharp sight picture from edge-to-edge of the visual field. - With a wide field of view, it’s easy to follow movement. - Generous eye relief for comfortable extended viewing, even for inexperienced users. - The diopter focus paddle allows you to precisely focus your binocular, compensating for differences between your eyes. - Armor coated, rugged, and waterproof. - Covered by the Leupold® Limited Lifetime Warranty. - Black. Specifications:. - Actual Magnification: 8x. - Linear Field of View (ft/1000 yd): 394. - Linear Field of Vie |
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10X42 Natureview Roof Prism Water/Fog Proof Binoculars 22-1042 $140.99 Bushnell Natureview 10x42 Roof BAK4 Binoculars Black 221042 |
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Carson Trek 8 x 21mm Compact Roof Prism Binoculars $24 CARSON TK-821 TREK™ 8 X 21MM COMPACT ROOF PRISM BINOCULAR? 8 x 21mm ? Fully-coated ruby lenses ? Compact folding design ? 365-ft field of view @ 1,000 yards ? The perfect companion for sporting events, concerts & all outdoor activities ? Includes pouch, neck strap, lens covers & lens cloth |
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Rokinon 8 x 22 Compact Roof Prism Binoculars $30.55 Compact, pocket-sized binoculars Built with titanium anodized materials and coated optics Binoculars feature roof prism design 8x magnification power 367 feet at 1000 yards field of view 9.2 mm eye relief 7.6 relative brightness rating 7 oz. total weight |
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Raven™ 8 x 26mm Open Bridge Roof Prism Binocular $79 The RV-826 Raven Binocular from Carson Optical is an 8 x 26mm roof prism compact binocular with a contemporary open-hinge design. These compact binoculars boast high quality BAK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated optics to ensure a crisp, bright image.The durable, waterproof and fog proof design makes it perfect for outdoor use in all conditions. The RV-826 Binoculars are compact and portable enough to bring with you to concerts, sporting events, bird watching, hiking or any other outdoor activity. Comes complete with a soft pouch, neck strap and lens cloth. Magnification: 8xLens Size: 26mmPrism Type: BAK-4Lens Coating: Fully Multi-CoatedField of view: 330 feet at 1000 yardsWeight: 9.8 oz.Dimensions: 4.5" x 4.25" x 1.5"Accessories: Pouch, neck strap and lens clothTo view all Carson Optical Binoculars available please click here. |
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Trek™ 8 x 21 mm Compact Roof Prism Binocular $26.5 Carson’s TrekTM is a value-packed, mini-compact binocular with fully multi-coated lenses that reduce internal glare, reflection, and assure crisp, bright images. It has a center focus knob with an independent right diopter adjustment for maximum focusing flexibility. Lens barrels fold-in to create an extremely compact profile.Magnification: 8 powerObjective Lens Diameter: 21 mmMinimum Focusing Distance: 15 feetPrism Type: BK-7 roofField of View: 365 feet at 1,000 yardsWeight: 7 ounces / 175 gramsAccessories: Pouch Case and Strap |
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Carson 8x42 Close Focus Roof Prism Water Proof Binoculars JK-842 $99.23 Close-focus roof-prism binocularsIdeal for hunting birding hiking or fishingFeature BAK-4 prisms & fully multi-coated optics for crisp clear viewingLarge 42mm objective lenses gather plenty of light to ensure the viewing image is bright even in low light conditionsSuperior close-focus capabilities allow user to focus on objects as close as 5 ft awayO-ring sealed & nitrogen purged making binoculars waterproof & fogproofTwist-up eyecups stop in 3 positions to provide optimal eye relief for all usersLarge focus wheel turns smoothly for precise focus adjustmentsIndependent right diopter adjustment makes it possible to adjust the focus to allow for strength differences in each eye |
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Bushnell Powerview 10X42 Binos Roof Prism Realtree Camo $125.48 Powerview binoculars are truly the best of both worlds with contemporary styling and design combined with legendary Bushnell quality and durability. The easy to hold and easy to use aspect of these binoculars also converge to make Bushnell Powerview binoculars an excellent value for the general and outdoor user. Powerview comes with soft rubber covering and the patented InstaFocus focusing system. Magnification: 10x. Objective: 42mm. Field of View: 300 ft 1000 yds. Eye Relief: 17.5 mm. Exit Pupil: 4.2mm. Short Focus: 10 ft. Prism type: BaK 7 Roof. Finish: RealTree All Purpose Camo. |
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Rokinon 8 x 32 Fully Coated Roof Prism Binocular $56.19 Rokinon Special Performance (SP) binoculars capture innovation, technology, and precise performance to create superior, reliable optical productsWith unparalleled attention to detail, comfort and quality, Rokinon binoculars stand apartBinoculars boast 8X magnification and a 32 mm lens diameterFor over 30 years, Rokinon has been the name of choice for people with active lifestylesMagnification (power): 8XLens Diameter: 32 mmField of View: 105 m/6° Exit Pupil: 4 mmEye Relief: 11 mmBrightness: 16Ocular: 2 groups 3 elements Objective: 1 group 2 elements Prism: BK-7 roof prism Fully-coated opticsWeight: 10.5 ounces Twilight Performance: 16Carrying case includedMeasures 5.7 inches high x 2 inches deep x 3 inches wideModel number: HN832J |



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