Customer Reviews

Konica Minolta 8x42 Waterproof Classic Sport Binoculars

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I need binoculars for hunting and nature watching in varied conditions including 100+ degree heat/dust, muddy bogs, snow covered mountain woodlands, and open prairies. I bought the Minolta 8x42WP Waterproof Classic Sport Binoculars after a months long search and they have not disappointed. I have used them hunting in North Texas and whale/nature watching in Maui from on land and at sea. Minolta offers the most features including larger FOV, BAK4, coated optics, waterproofing, etc. This shows when you actually put the binocs to your eyes. Other makers charge 2 to 3 times as much for these features. They are hands-down a better choice than the similar priced Nikon, Orion, Bushnell, Leupold Wind River, etc. brands. "Similar priced" is not totally accurate as most of these makers charge well over $100 for their products. The Wind Rivers are particularly disappointing considering their price. Pentax does make a similar model at a similar price but it is heavier. I had to buy these on faith as I could not find a retailer who had the Classic Sport model in Dallas, TX. By looking through a large number of very different models of binoculars, I can strongly say that these are the set to buy if you do not intend to spend over $300. I am amazed at how competitively Minolta prices this product.

I just recieved my new binoculars and as is usual with the old Minolta tradition, you get a great product at a greater price.
I worked for this company many years ago and I remember they were sticklers for detail.
The binoculars are great if, like me, you have to wear glasses; incredible eye relief. It was very heavy overcast and once upto my eyes, someone turned on the lights. It was just that bright. The contrast was not overbearing in any way; just enough snap to remind you of a good quality pair of binoculars. With a short focus of only 18 feet and a sharpness beyond my expectations, I couldn't be any happier with my purchase. I highly recommend them to both pros and amatuers alike.

I live in the country in Washington State, close to Mount Rainier, and I am lucky enough to have some beautiful birds visit my home and property. These binoculars are just perfect for me, and my recreational birding activities. I tested them against much more expensive Nikon and Canon binoculars, and have found them to be absolutely superb for the price. They are just a touch heavy, but they become weightless when you lock on to a beautiful Western Tanager, or a Red-naped Sapsucker. Enjoy.

If you are looking for binoculars to take to a Race buy these!

I was looking to replace a set of 7x50 binoculars that have been too heavy to drag around at the racetrack all weekend. These Binoculars give a very wide view of 8.2degrees letting you keep more cars in your vision. I'm sure they will also be great when I take them to football games because you can see more of the play develop in them.
The optics are sharp as a tack and I'm happy with the eye relief while I'm wearing glasses. The pop up eye pieces are not soft so they don't conform to your eye but they don't really need to beacuse you don't have to jam them up against your eyes to see.
I do wish the case that comes with them had a arm strap. It does not so it's kinda useless but for the price you can buy or dig up another case.
Great binoculars at a very competitive price. I wish I could buy them for everyone I go to races with!

I've looked through Brunton, Steiner, Zeiss and Leupold, and now I'm not nearly as bummed that I'll never be able to afford any of them. :) Now that I have this Minolta WP Classic Sport I'm pretty amazed with what I got for the price. A crystal-clear, bright, wide-field image. Virtually none of that whitish ghosting/fog that plague the lesser brands. I can even focus mine in at 8~9 feet, not 18 ft. like the specs say. :) Very easy to focus and just sharp as a razor. I don't usually smile so much, but this is called Buyer Satisfaction. Hey, NASCAR guy, put the binocs in the case, pull the strap out, close the case. Off to the races... :)

I just recieved my new binoculars and as is usual with the old Minolta tradition, you get a great product at a greater price.
I worked for this company many years ago and I remember they were sticklers for detail.
The binoculars are great if, like me, you have to wear glasses; incredible eye relief. It was very heavy overcast and once upto my eyes, someone turned on the lights. It was just that bright. The contrast was not overbearing in any way; just enough snap to remind you of a good quality pair of binoculars. With a short focus of only 18 feet and a sharpness beyond my expectations, I couldn't be any happier with my purchase. I highly recommend them to both pros and amatuers alike.