These definitely feel like a very substantial, well built set of binoculars as you hold them in the hand. The dials are precise and very easy to operate. They are very well balanced and easy to steady. A high quality build.
Also, the zoom dial is in a more appropriate and ergonomic location as compared to other brands. You don't have to lose your view while fumbling with zoom on these. It's right up on top and falls naturally under the fingers right behind the focus wheel and has a short and smooth sweep to it. Other manufacturers put the zoom down under, usually on the right side where it is very awkward to control without adjusting your grip and creating a viewing disadvantage.
The diopter adjustment is right behind the zoom and pops out with a push. Once adjusted, just pop it in where it's out of the way and forget about it. It's a very nice feature. All dials are lined up with easy access. Kudos to the engineers!
Despite the 21mm objective, the zoom on these allow more light transmission than other zoom binoculars with larger objective lenses that I've owned over the years. Mostly TASCO and Bushnell.
Just for image comparison, I focused these, a pair of fixed power Nikon Aculon T01 8x21mm, and a pair of TASCO 8-24x25mm on my 75" HD TV in a dark room from approximately 15" away. The image from these was definitely brighter and more true to color than the Nikon's and totally blew away the TASCO. The TASCO is going back. What rubbish!
Another very nice feature is actually the strap which has a unique quick release system that consists of metal pins that attach with a push, slide and click. Just push the release button, slide the strap end forward and lift to release. This is a much better system than those cheap plastic snap connectors with a cord loop on other brands. When the strap is removed, there are no pigtails dangling about. It's a durable, convenient and clean design.
Overall, I would say that Ricoh/Pentax has employed engineers/designers that are actually educated to a high degree and institute a high level of common sense in thier designs. The design of this binocular is very well thought out. One of, if not the best I've seen.
As far as the aesthetics go, I think they look absolutely up to date, if not a bit futuristic. These are binoculars that would look right at home in James Bond's arsenal of gadgetry. No fancy rangefinder or laser guidance system, but they definitely have the look. Lol
My intended use for these is in dry conditions, so being waterproof is not a priority, but would nonetheless be a nice bonus feature. Oh well. What idiot submerges binoculars anyway? The strap is not only for carrying, it's a safety strap too! Use the strap. Don't drop them in a lake, stream, puddle, bathtub, sink or toilet! Don't put them in the washing machine or dishwasher either! I could go on and on...
As far as rain goes, I don't think it will be an issue unless you're in a monsoon, hurricane or similar. In those conditions, you should be running for cover, not looking through your binoculars.
In conclusion, Money well spent. I'm very pleased with this purchase and will definitely look to RICOH/PENTAX in the future for my optical needs.
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Customer Rating | (273) | (15687) | (45) | (2734) | (349) | (560) |
| Price | $84.00 | $35.99 | $146.21 | $146.96 | $96.40 | $126.00 |
| Shipping | FREE Shipping. Details | FREE Shipping. Details | FREE Shipping. Details | FREE Shipping. Details | FREE Shipping. Details | FREE Shipping. Details |
| Sold By | Amazon.com | occer | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
| Item Dimensions | 4.37 x 2.1 x 4.37 inches | 3.93 x 4.3 x 1 inches | 4.8 x 4.3 x 2 inches | 8.58 x 4.25 x 4.25 inches | 4.48 x 2.1 x 4.33 inches | 4.57 x 2.1 x 4.33 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.75 lbs | 7.20 ounces | 0.67 lbs | 3.06 lbs | 0.65 lbs | 0.65 lbs |
| Magnification Maximum | 16 | 12 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 21 millimeters | 25.00 millimeters | 25 millimeters | 50 millimeters | 21 millimeters | 21 |
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Philandr
Best in price class
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 14, 2020Color: BlackVerified Purchase
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They work
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Compact
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