cheetah1's Full Review: Barska Optics LucidView AB10114 Binocular
This is a review of the Barska Lucid View 16 by 32mm roof prism compact binoculars that I picked up at Big 5 sporting goods for 18 dollars plus tax.
This is my first pair of roof prism binoculars. Roof prism binoculars are very popular in compact binocular designs. They are sleeker and easier to carry than the bulkier, heavier porro prism designs. With roof prism binoculars the objective lens and the eyepiece lens form a straight tube. Prices for compact binoculars can go upwards of over 2,000 dollars for the highest quality best designed binoculars.
The Barska Lucid View binocular models come in 3 different objective lens sizes, 32mm, 25mm and 21mm. There are also 2 single tube monoculars which function as mini telescopes. These binoculars have rubberized coatings that provide a secure grip. Some of the models have a camouflage color. None of the models in this series are waterproof.
All of the models in the Lucid View series use inexpensive BK-7 prisms. Higher quality binoculars use BK-4 prisms at a substantial extra cost to the consumer. All of the binocular models in the Lucid View line have below average image brightness with the exception of the 12 by 32mm model. As magnification increases in these compact binoculars the image becomes dimmer and the and the field of view shrinks drasticly.
I tried out the 20 power model first in the store but noticed the excessive hand shake and dim view so I opted for the 16 power model. Most of my binocular use is of distant mountain ranges so the extra 4 power increase over the 12 power model is useful.
I would rate the image quality of the 16 by 32mm Barska model as fair, not really that good. On a scale of 1 to 5 I would give the optics a 3 rating. Any decent, well built 20 by 50mm binoculars will walk all over this Barska model in image quality. Larger 50mm binocular models offer brighter, sharper, more vivid images than Barska's smaller 32mm objective lens can provide. The Barska also suffers from blurring on the edges of the viewing field which is a common problem in inexpensive binoculars.
I use my binoculars mostly for shorter hikes. These barska's come with a soft case that attaches to your belt. With the binoculars folded up inside the case the outside measurements of the soft case are 6 inches in height, 3 1/4 inches in width and 2 inches in depth, a very compact item to carry around. The weight of the binoculars themselves is just under 12 ounces. No problem holding them for an extended period of time. There are no lens covers and the the binocular strap is really just a heavy duty string. A cheap lens cloth is included.
The binocular construction looks to be of good quality. The lenses have a single coating of a chemical that increases light transmission. More expensive binoculars use multiple chemical coatings on a single lens surface. The focus knob in the middle of the binoculars works smoothly. Viewing through the eyecups I see a lot of unwanted daylight on the sides. The eyecups are not really large enough to block out all the light. The eye relief on these binoculars is 10.5, not really enough for eyeglass users.
These binoculars have a warranty but if they break Barska expects you to pay shipping costs to the repair center on top of a 20 dollar fee. At this price level it would be better off just buying a new pair rather than going through the hassle of a repair.
I think for the average consumer the 12 by 32mm model would be the best choice in the Lucid View lineup. The higher magnification models have increased hand shake and a dimmer view as compared to the 12 power version.
If you would like to see more brand choices for compact binoculars before making your buying decision I would recommend checking out Amazon.com.
Great style and value that is ideal for travel, concerts, outdoors and sporting events Compact and lightweight that folds and fits into your pocket! H...More at Amazon
Fantastic prices with ease & c...(Stock status: N/A)
The economically priced Lucid View Series is the perfect blend of functionality and compact portability. This folding roof prism design offers a wide ...More at Amazon Marketplace
The economically priced Lucid View series is the perfect blend of functionality and compact portability. Armored with protective rubber of black, Luci...More at Buy.com Marketplaces
The economically priced Lucid View series is the perfect blend of functionality and compact portability. Armored with protective rubber of black, Luci...More at Adorama
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