Kowa high landers, expensive, but worth every penny!. - Kowa High Lander Observation 32x82mm Roof Prism Binoculars

Ive been an avid birder for nearly 40 years, but Ive never been a fan of one-eyed viewing through a spotting scope. I have always used giant binoculars for studying distant birds. The 3-D effect of binoculars cannot be duplicated with a scope, and there is none of the associated eyestrain. Ive had my Kowa High Lander Prominar Binoculars a year now and I continue to be very favorably impressed. I use them strictly for birding (primarily long-range waterfowl study) so I cannot speak to their value for astronomical use. Optically speaking, these are the finest giant binoculars I have ever used. Images are bright, razor sharp from edge to edge, and the colors are true. These are essentially two 82 mm fluorite scopes fused together. Each eye is individual focus, and they each turn the opposite way (one clockwise, the other counter-clockwise). At first, I thought this focus arrangement would be a hassle (all my other giant binoculars had been center-focus) but after a few minutes of using them, it becomes second nature. The focus is fairly slow and gradual, providing a very accurate and sharp focus. At relatively close range (less than 100 yards) the High landers have a pretty small depth of field, requiring constant focus adjustment as you move from bird to bird. At longer range, much less focusing is required. I use the 32 power eyepieces that came with the set, which is a more than adequate for most of my needs (I can identify ducks at two miles). Additional eyepieces in 21x and 50x are available, but they are quite expensive ($1000+). The eyepieces can be quickly swapped by simply pulling them straight out, and pushing the new ones in. To accommodate eyeglass wearers, the end of each eyepiece can be extended or lowered by simply turning the end ring. The eyepiece ends are quite wide (approximately 1.75 in diameter) and some people have complained (in other reviews) that the High Landers would not fit their eyes. I have a very narrow face and Ive had no issues with eye placement, but it could be a problem for some. A sturdy tripod and head are required when using the High landers, which weigh-in at nearly 14 pounds. I use a Manfrotto 475 tripod with a Bogen 503 head. Its nice if you dont have to carry them too far. Ive hiked a couple miles with them slung over my shoulder and they are heavy! There is one advantage of the heavy weight however; there is less movement in windy conditions. The objective lens covers are hard plastic, which screw into the barrels. This makes for a secure tight fit. Good for keeping dust out, but it takes a lot longer to put them in and take them out than traditional lens covers. I wish Kowa offered a straight version of these binoculars; they are available only with 45 degree angled eyepieces. This feature is a benefit for astronomical use, where one is always looking up. I have no trouble spotting swimming or standing birds, but picking up flying birds with the 45 degree eyepieces is quite challenging. There is also the problem of looking over obstructions, since the binoculars are always sitting several inches below your line of sight. All in all though, I give the Kowa High Landers very high marks. The fit and finish is top rate, and the image quality is breathtaking. They are very expensive, but theyre worth it!

Pros: Outstanding optics, rugged construction.
Cons: Expensive, heavy

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