Great binoculars - Bushnell 7x26 Elite Custom Compact Binocular

I've been tempted by these for a while and finally decided to try them. The optics are excellent--clear and bright from edge to edge, exit pupil is large for compacts (3.7 mm) so viewing is much less tiring than 8x20s, good depth of field, 363 ft FoV, excellent balance and handling. I wear glasses and was a little worried the the eye-relief would be marginal, but it is more than adequate. Lens caps (eyepiece only) fit perfectly, strap and case both seem good. I like the fact that the case has a zipper rather than a velcro closure. The specs say 12 oz. and that seems right. Because of their small size they have nice heft and feel stable in my hands.

The two obvious limitations are that they are not waterproof and the reverse porro design means they have a significant depth as well as height and width and bulkier than roof prism compacts. If it has to fit in your shirt pocket, then you need a different binocular. On the other hand, if you pick them up and look through them you will not want to part with them.

I compared the Elite with several roof prism compacts including a Nikon Premier 8x20. Both are gems. Optically I think the Elite is at least equal to and possibly better than the Premier and I like the Elite's larger exit pupil. Both handle beautifully.
Pros: Excellent optics, handling, weight and size, build
Cons: Not waterproof

This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.