Gas prices and auto manufacturers seem to be in the news a lot lately. Gas prices are rising and auto sales of large gas-guzzling motor vehicles are down as consumers look for a more fuel efficient automobile to offset increased fuel cost. Yet it can be difficult to make the move to a compact car and give up the extras we enjoy in a full size automobile, like leg room, storage capacity, or a smooth ride. Binocular selection can present similar dilemmas when searching for the perfect field of view, close focus, eye relief or comfortable weight. Full size binoculars will be heavier and cost more, yet offer the best light gathering capabilities for many different times of the day. Compact binoculars provide convenience, lighter weight and lower prices, but uses are limited due to less light gathering ability. Increasingly, binocular users are turning to the mid-size 8×32 binocular which provide many of the extras enjoyed with a full size binocular, but offer the benefits of a compact with less weight and a lower price.
The higher end binoculars in the 8×32 size are a great example of saving money and curtailing the binocular weight. In addition to those advantages, they still offer bright views due to their high quality optics. The Swarovski EL 8×32 is a perfect example of this. This 8×32 binocular weighs only 21.5 ounces. The Swarovski EL 8.5×42 weighs in at 28.9 ounces. The 8×32 EL not only weighs 7.8 ounces less, it provides a wider field of view and better close focus than the 8.5×42 EL. Top this off with spending $200 less and I find the 8×32 EL to be a binocular with winning combinations. You will find very similar advantages when comparing the Leica Ultravid 8×32 and the Leica Ultravid 8×42 or the Zeiss Victory FL 8×32 T* and the Zeiss Victory FL 8×42 T*.
Looking at the under $1000 price range, the Nikon Premier LX L 8×32 is an excellent choice. Like the other high-end binoculars, this 8×32 provides a wider field of view, better close focus, lighter weight and a price tag which is $350 less than the Nikon Premier LX L 8×42. If you are a Pentax sport optic fan, take a look at the Pentax DCF ED 8×32. The differences between the 8×32 and the Pentax DCF ED 8×43 are not quite as dramatic as the others but I like the 8×43 performance and would definitely enjoy the 8×32.
If your budget is in the $400 range, look at the Pentax DCF SP 8×32, the Minox BD 8×32 BR and the Steiner Merlin 8×32. In the $200-$400 budget, Eagle Optics carries the Bushnell Legend 8×32 Roof Prism, the Eagle Optics Ranger SRT 8×32, the Leupold Katmai 8×32, and the Minox BL 8×32 BR. Want an 8×32 for under $150? We offer the Bushnell Hemisphere 8×32, the Vortex Lightning 8×32 or the Vortex Spitfire 8.5×32.
When you shop and compare, you will see how the 8×32 binocular offers many advantages for the size and money. The only drawback for this size is the decrease in light gathering ability. Light gathering comes into play while in the deep shade or predawn and late evening hours. If you spend a lot of time birding or hunting in those low light situations, then a full size binocular should be your choice. Having held many of these 8×32 binoculars, I really appreciate the smaller size and lighter weight. I am anxious to see the Leupold Golden Ring 8×32 HD and the Vortex Fury 8×32. These binoculars are not yet available-hopefully soon! So take some time and look at the benefits of the 8×32 versus the 8×42 size. Your next binocular purchase might be something smaller than you ever thought you could use-an 8×32 binocular!
As always, the Eagle Optics Staff is just a phone call away at 1-800-289-1132 and happy to answer any questions!
Kristin
Eagle Optics Staff
Awesome product! I would love to buy one of these and show off to my friends.