wadesam's Full Review: Leica Trinovid BA (8x32) Binocular
There is no denying the quality and well-deserved reputation of Leica Binoculars. But . . .
GENERAL: This binocular is another excellent specimen in Leica's stable of superior optics. The lenses are fully multi-coated (which means multiple coatings on both sides of the lenses) for increased light transmission. It weighs in at 22 oz. and provides a field of view (FOV) of 405 feet at 1000 yards. That means if you are viewing a fence line at a range of 1000 yards you can see a left to right distance of 405 feet without moving the binocular. A large FOV helps you glass comfortably and not notice your shaking hands. It also just feels more natural.
CORRECTION TO EPINIONS DATA: The product page here at epinions states that the FOV is 135 feet. That is incorrect. 135 yards is correct or 405 feet. If the actual FOV were 135 feet, I'd recommend that Leica give these binos away free with a fill-up at Texaco. Additionally, the picture is wrong!! The binocular shown is either the Leica 10x50 or the 12x50--both models are housed in the same case. The actual 8x32 is only about 2/3 the height of the unit shown here at epinions. We all make mistakes, but I just don't want anyone to be discouraged when they look at that picture and think it is Leica's version of a mid-size binocular.
PROS: Well, down to the nuts and bolts. You must understand that EVERY binocular is a compromise. Period. Quality magnification comes at the price of weight; compactness (is that a word?) comes at the price of FOV and brightness. Image quality comes at the price of, well...price. Money. For example, almost every manufacturer in the world makes either a 10x40 or a 10x42 binocular. Leica's model costs about $1100 retail and Bushnell can put a pair in your hands for under $50. Same size lenses, about the same weight, but different quality.
The Leica 8x32 compromise a little bit of everything but Leica makes those compromises less noticeable, for a price. The FOV of 405 feet is excellent, but the image is magnified only 8x. The weight of 22 oz is a welcome relief compared to the 36+ oz you have to pack around in a 10x50, but your exit pupil is down to 4.0 with a twilight factor significantly lower than a unit with a 50mm objective. So the math is about what you'd expect from an 8x32 model, the Leica difference is the brightness and the clarity of the image. When you compare binoculars, don't make your purchasing decision based upon your use of them in the store looking at items on shelves 100 feet away. With the artificial lighting, the brief use, and the closeness of the items viewed, every binocular will perform like a champ and you'll be sorry when you get your new purchase out into the "real world". The "Leica difference" will be realized when you are in the rain, 5 minutes before sunset, viewing an elk 400 yards away. With the $50 Bushnells, you won't know if your elk is a bull or a cow. With your Leicas you'll see the food stuck in its teeth.
I first used the 8x32's for about fourteen hours one day that started with fog and ended in darkness and rain. The relatively light weight was a joy as I walked. The neck strap was wide and comfortable. The image produced was always bright and clear. Not only in the center but also to the edges. I could tell I wasn't using a 42mm objective lens, but the 32mm lens was no handicap. I enjoyed the compact construction. I glassed a clearcut for over an hour just to test the eye strain produced and it was practically zero. Try that with the Tasco binoculars your wife got you for Christmas last year.
The diopter and focusing adjustments were easy to use and ergonomically friendly. I have small hands and don't really like Leica's 8x42s, but the 8x32 was a great fit. The armored case felt (and indeed is) strong. The whole package is backed by Leicas passport warranty (provided you didn't buy them gray market).
CONS: Price. Only the price. The difference between a $50 binocular and a $350 binocular is enormous! But the difference between a $350 binocular and a $950 binocular is less noticeable. And you have to decide: Is that difference worth $600?
CONCLUSION: The Leica 8x32 is without a doubt at the top of the mid-sized binocular class. The price will scare away many consumers from even giving them serious consideration. After saving for three years, I now own this binocular and do not have a single regret. If you are a serious hunter or birder, this binocular will serve you well. My highest recommendation.
@@ The Foresta Series feature lightweight and durable die-cast bodies made of Aluminum (for the 32mm models) or Magnesium alloy (for the 42mm models)....More at Buy.com Marketplaces
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.