Review for Minox HG 8x33 BR Waterproof Binocular 62163

Author: vigormaster {!} from Chicago, IL on Jun 23, 2009
Pros:  Mechanical build, optics, eye relief, ergonomics
Cons:  Little bit of aberration near the edges
Would recommend:  yes

vigormaster wrote:

I have been using these binoculars for birding, and they have been wonderful. After years of cheapie binoculars that don't focus and give the viewer a headache, glass like this is a revelation. I think my girlfriend summed it up nicely when I handed her this pair to look at a warbler and she said, "Wow, this is so easy it's stupid!" There is next to no fuss in using these - you point it and see what's there. The mechanical build reminds me of why I constantly gravitate toward German-made gadgets - it is rugged and confident, with silky smooth and appropriately stiff adjustments. The optics give a very bright, crisp image, especially near the center. The eye relief is adequate for use with eyeglasses. Getting and keeping a focus, and making the diopter adjustment, is next to effortless; I like how one needs to pull the diopter ring to adjust it and push it back in to lock in the adjustment. It greatly reduces the probability of messing up the diopter adjustment in use. The magnesium body makes these binoculars very light for their size. Combined with the comfy padded neck strap, this makes them adequately pleasant to carry throughout a day in the woods. Near the edges of the field of vision, there is a barely noticeable amount of distortion and a slightly more noticeable amount of chromatic aberration. It's hardly anything to complain about, though if you're willing to spend 2-3 times the price you can improve upon this. My birding friends, many of whom use top-of-the-line full sized Leica/Swarovski/Nikon glass, looked through these binoculars and only had good things to say. They told me I got a very good value, that the optics are great and the binoculars are nice and light. Notably, they didn't mention that I'd ever need to upgrade as I progressed in birding and in enjoying the outdoors. These are great binoculars and are well worth the price.