Money well spent - Leupold BX-5 Santiam HD 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars

I recently purchased the Leupold BX-5 Santiam 15x56 binos in shadow gray from OP. The sale price and coupon finally put them within reach, a full $260 less than any other retailer.

I can't compare them with others because I've never used other binos in this class. I can, however, compare them to the Leupold BX-4 12x50 binos I bought just a few months ago. I was so impressed with the quality of the BX-4s that I wanted to make the step up to the next level. I'm very happy I did.

I use these basically for wildlife viewing at long distances and bird watching. I live in northern Idaho along the Clearwater River and frequently spend time watching eagles, herons, pelicans and other birds. I also frequently just use them for sitting on my deck and glassing the sides of the canyon to see what I can see. These binos will also go to the range and serve as my spotting scope on my next shooting trip.

First, these are big, heavy binoculars. They weigh just shy of 3 pounds. The package includes the binos, covers for all lenses, a very nice and comfortable carry strap, a tripod adapter, lens cloth and a very nice (if slightly small) carry case. The case is very sturdy and looks to be top quality...just like the case for the BX-4 binos. Unfortunately, it is slightly too small for the BX-5 binos. It's difficult to get them in and out and invariably the lens covers will be pulled off the binos while trying to remove them from the case. So, the case will be used for storage and protection on trips and such and only when I'm not actively using the binos. But, that's my only complaint and it's certainly not a deal-killer for me.

One note about the weight and size: At 15x these are probably right at the magnification limit where they can effectively be used without a tripod or other stabilizer. The weight does help to mitigate movement in my opinion. So, the weight, to me, is almost a plus. They certainly aren't too heavy to comfortably use for a pretty extended period of time.

Out of the box setup is very easy. Cover the right lens and focus thru the left side only. Then, cover the left lens and focus the right side using the small diopter focus knob on the right side. Of course, adjust the width to your eyes by pulling the barrels down towards each other, or up and away from each other until you see the two viewing circles merge to one. Done. It literally takes seconds.

The BX-5s feel very solid and sturdy. The rubbery coating provides a sure grip, even with gloves or wet hands. Nothing feels loose or cheap. Adjustments are smooth and feel very precise. They're big, but everything is within easy reach even with average size hands like I have.

Focusing the binos with the center focus wheel is easy. I do notice that the adjustment is very fine. It's also very sure. Once they're focused the dial stays put until you move it again.

The image and colors are razor sharp and it seems to me that the further away the object is the clearer it is. The amount of light that these binos gather is stunning to me. If I look into heavy, dark brush just about twilight everything looks much brighter than using just my eyes. These binos are at their best in very low light and that's where the money seems to be spent. I'm astounded at how good the image is in low light. (And BTW, that goes for the BX-4s as well...I think they're every bit as good at half the price)

Field of view is impressive. Leupold says it's 231 ft at 1000 yds. Eye relief is also very good at 18mm. I don't wear glasses so it's hard to say if it's adequate for someone who does...but to me it's fine. They'll focus down to about just under 10 feet.

I suppose I could've spent more on another brand but I've been a die-hard Leupold customer for probably going on 20 years now. I can't imaging a better warranty and better customer service than what Leupold offers. I'm not sure I could actually notice a difference in something that costs twice as much as these binos.

I'm very happy with them and give them 5 stars since I can't give them 6. If you have the budget and you want great binos, I'd certainly recommend the Leupold BX-5 Santiams.