Steiner 12x40 Predator vs. Pentax PCF WP 12x40

Hunter9988 · Guest

Which is a better pair of binoculars the Steiners or the Pentax? Does the auto- focus work well in the Steiner. What are the flaws of this kind of focusing?

opticsplanet.com · Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 5:54 pm Post subject:

Hi

In a Steiner vs Pentax shootout, it will depend entirely on which models you are comparing. Both companies make everything from inexpensive models to top-of-the-line glasses.

The best Pentax roof prism models (made in Japan versions) are optically as good as the best Steiner roof prisms. Comparing the porro prisms from both companies is a little tougher since Steiner doesn't make a center-focus porro.

The Steiner indivdual eyepiece focus (their auto-focus) works like any other IF focusing system. When properly adjusted, everything from 30-40 yards to infinity is always in focus. This is a great feature for medium to long range observing and it is also makes for a very rugged, easy to seal binocular, hence the popularity for military applications.

For applications, however, where is observing is often done at less than forty yards, the IF system is very slow and clumsy to use. You will have to focus both eyepieces simultaneously at these distances to use your binoculars at all. This is a disaster for a lot of birding or for other close in applications such as bowhunting.
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hunter9988 · Guest

You said it depends on the models so if it were between the the 12x40 Pentax pcf WP and the Steiner predator 12x40 what would be the better pair?

ranburr · Guest

The Steiners by a significant margin. The WPs are very lacking. Now if you were to compare the Pentax SPs, it would be a different story.

ranburr