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Ireland's Wildlife

Irish wildlife, nature and biodiversity

You are here: Home / Archives for Wildlife Reviews / Wildlife Gear / Wildlife Optics / Binocular Reviews

Wildlife and Birdwatching Binocular Reviews

Here at Ireland's Wildlife we know just how important a great pair of binoculars can be to making the most of your wildlife watching and birdwatching opportunities. To stand up to the rigours of the Irish climate Ireland's wildlife watchers and birders demand rugged, comfortable binoculars that perform well in all sorts of conditions. We offer comprehensive independent reviews of a range of high quality binoculars to suit all budgets.

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×32 Binocular Review

September 20, 2023 by Calvin Jones Leave a Comment

A person reviewing the Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10x32 binoculars.

Pros: Fantastic edge-to-edge image quality, sublime ergonomics, great low-light performance and a field of view to rival many 8x binoculars, coupled with outstanding build quality -- the NL Pure 10x32 is an exceptional binocular up there with the very best.Cons: While they are svelte, the barrels on the NL Pure are long for a 32mm binocular, so they are perhaps … [Read more...] about Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×32 Binocular Review

Vortex Razor UHD 10×42 Binocular Review

June 27, 2023 by Calvin Jones Leave a Comment

Vortex Razor UHD Binocular Review by Ireland's Wildlife

Pros: Superb image quality that lives up the name. Exceptionally bright, pin-sharp image across the wide field of view. Smooth, accurate focus and outstanding build quality rounds off what is a very accomplished binocular that holds its own with the best on the market.Cons: A little on the large side for a 42mm binocular -- particularly the length. Focus gearing, … [Read more...] about Vortex Razor UHD 10×42 Binocular Review

Vanguard VEO HD 2 8×42 Binocular Review

May 4, 2023 by Calvin Jones Leave a Comment

Vanguard VEO HD Birding and Wildlife Binocular

Pros: High quality optics that deliver premium features and a high-performance viewing experience at a reasonable price point. Sharp, contrasty image impresses in a range of challenging viewing conditions. Bright, vivid colours that make the image "pop".Cons: Twist up eyecups are plastic, rather than metal, Vanguard Warranty dropped from 25 years to only 10 since I reviewed … [Read more...] about Vanguard VEO HD 2 8×42 Binocular Review

Review: Hawke Frontier APO 10×42 Binocular

December 6, 2022 by Calvin Jones 4 Comments

Hawke's Frontier APO is the new flagship binocular model from a brand with a reputation for offering the best value for money in the business. With a host of premium features, at a price-point that undercuts market leaders by a significant margin, we find out how Hawke's new top-of-the-range birding and wildlife binocular stacks up.Pros: Great ergonomics in a surprisingly … [Read more...] about Review: Hawke Frontier APO 10×42 Binocular

German Precision Optics (GPO) Passion HD 10×42 Binocular Review

August 28, 2022 by Calvin Jones 1 Comment

The GPO Passion HD 10x42 Binocular reviewed by Ireland's Wildlife

Pros: Premium quality build and high-end features combined with outstanding optics at a lower price point than most top binocular brands. Image is pin sharp and contrasty across the wide field of view, and colours pop, yet still appear natural and neutral, with no obvious colour cast.Cons: Feels a little on the large/long side for a x42 binocular. When set for my eyes, the … [Read more...] about German Precision Optics (GPO) Passion HD 10×42 Binocular Review

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×42 Binocular Review

October 29, 2020 by Calvin Jones 8 Comments

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10x42 Binocular Review

Pros: The best binocular I have ever used: period. Exquisite ergonomics, incredible image clarity across the field of view... and what a field of view. The NL Pure takes immersive viewing to a whole new level.Cons: Slight detectable seam in the rubber armour where it meets on the inside of the barrels. No locking mechanism on the dioptre adjustment. … [Read more...] about Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×42 Binocular Review

Vanguard VEO ED 10×42 Binocular Review

September 29, 2020 by Calvin Jones 2 Comments

Pros: Excellent entry level ED binocular that ticks a lot of the right boxes for birders and wildlife enthusiasts. Lightweight, with reasonable field of view for a 10x binocular, the VEO ED delivers sharp high-contrast images. Great blend of high-end features at a very reasonable price point.Cons: Focus is a little too aggressive for my taste, and meant I regularly overshot … [Read more...] about Vanguard VEO ED 10×42 Binocular Review

Hawke Frontier HDX 8×32 Binocular Review

December 16, 2019 by Calvin Jones 3 Comments

Hawke Frontier HDX 8x32 Highly Recommended by Ireland's Wildlife

Pros: Outstanding build quality, excellent optics and superb ergonomics in a very affordable package. Image is crisp, bright and clear in the centre of the field, with plenty of detail and good contrast.Cons: Softening around the field edges is noticeable when panning with a moving subject or scanning a large area and can be a little distracting. While the HD handles … [Read more...] about Hawke Frontier HDX 8×32 Binocular Review

Hawke Frontier EDX 8×42 Binocular Review

April 27, 2019 by Calvin Jones 12 Comments

Hawke Frontier EDX 8x42 Binocular Review

Pros: Superb image quality and premium build quality deliver excellent all-around performance. Contemporary design looks great, is ergonomic, lightweight and a delight to carry and use for extended periods in the field. Top notch accessories complete the package.Cons: Minor observations rather than real "cons" -- lack of thumb indents feels a little strange if you're used … [Read more...] about Hawke Frontier EDX 8×42 Binocular Review

Hawke Sapphire ED 8×42 Binocular Review

May 21, 2018 by Calvin Jones 4 Comments

Hawke Saphire ED Binocular in action

Pros: Excellent image quality rivalling many much more expensive options. Superb wide field of view. Ergonomic, well-balanced magnesium alloy body gives a quality feel while remaining light. Great all-around performer offering superb value.Cons: Biggest gripe is the rain guard... which has no bearing on the quality of the binocular, but has a big impact on its usability. This … [Read more...] about Hawke Sapphire ED 8×42 Binocular Review

ZEISS Victory SF 10×42 Binocular Review

September 29, 2017 by Calvin Jones 2 Comments

ZEISS Victory SF Review

Pros: Exquisite image across an expansive and immersive field of view. Bright, clear and razor sharp... the Victory SF is optically up there with the best binoculars I've ever used. Superb balance, comparatively light weight and excellent overall build quality make for a compelling all-round package.Cons: Even for an "alpha" class binocular the c. €2,500 price tag is … [Read more...] about ZEISS Victory SF 10×42 Binocular Review

Kite Caiman 8×42 Binocular Review

July 20, 2017 by Calvin Jones 1 Comment

Kite Caiman Review

Pros: Solid entry-level binocular that's comfortable and easy to use. Light, yet robust, this is an easy to handle binocular with good all-round ergonomics. Optically it delivers an impressively bright, sharp image across most of the wide field of view. Neutral colour balance, great contrast and minimal chromatic aberration.Cons: Slight "halo" effect on the periphery of the … [Read more...] about Kite Caiman 8×42 Binocular Review

Vanguard Endeavor EDIV 10×42 Binocular Review

December 19, 2016 by Calvin Jones 8 Comments

Vanguard Endeavor EDIV

Pros: Great ergonomics, excellent build quality and superb optics combine to make this the best Vanguard binocular yet. Sharp detailed views across an expansive field of view. Vivid contrast and natural colours with no colour fringing. New SK15 prisms give noticeably brighter view than predecessor. Protective hydrophobic coatings shield lenses and make cleaning a … [Read more...] about Vanguard Endeavor EDIV 10×42 Binocular Review

Binocular Review: Eschenbach Trophy D 8×42 ED

October 24, 2016 by Calvin Jones 1 Comment

eschenbach-trophy-d-8x42-ed-review

Pros: Bright, high contrast image with excellent detail and vivid colours. Wide field of view. High quality materials throughout give a robust, premium feel.Cons: Design makes for curious ergonomics. While It could be argued that the angular shaping of the rubber armour helps grip, it feels odd, and smacks more of an attempt to be different rather than offering any … [Read more...] about Binocular Review: Eschenbach Trophy D 8×42 ED

Hawke Endurance ED 8×32 Binocular Review

April 20, 2016 by Calvin Jones 6 Comments

Hawke Endurance ED 8x32 Binocular Review

Pros: Bright, high contrast views with natural looking colours and excellent fine detail even at lower light levels. Impressively lightweight, yet still feel extremely robust. Packed with high-end features at a price that represents exceptional value.Cons: None worth noting.Price: Listed in the Birdwatch Ireland Shop for €230, RRP on the Hawke UK website is GB£169.99 … [Read more...] about Hawke Endurance ED 8×32 Binocular Review

Hawke Endurance ED 8×42 Binocular Review

September 7, 2015 by Calvin Jones 4 Comments

Hawke Endurance ED 8x42 Review

Pros: Crisp, detailed views at a price that's hard to believe. Packed with premium features you normally only see on much more expensive binoculars. Lightweight and robust thanks to its magnesium alloy chassis.Cons: Not many... a little softening evident around the field edge, but not noticeable in normal use. Focus wheel has a bit more resistance than I was expecting, but … [Read more...] about Hawke Endurance ED 8×42 Binocular Review

Vanguard Endeavor EDII 8×42 binocular review

September 28, 2014 by Calvin Jones 6 Comments

Win a pair of top-quality Vanguard binoculars

Pros: Superb build quality, excellent balance and high quality materials give a premium feel. excellent optics deliver a pin sharp, high contrast image right to the edge of the field. View appears almost flat... with very little field curvature. Good close focus performance. Practically no colour fringing (chromatic aberration).Cons: Focus mechanism a little aggressive … [Read more...] about Vanguard Endeavor EDII 8×42 binocular review

Endeavor EDII: Vanguard launches new flagship binocular

August 15, 2014 by Calvin Jones 2 Comments

New Vanguard Endeavor EDII binocular

Vanguard is bolstering its range of high-performance sports optics with a new flagship binocular model. The Vanguard Endeavor EDII is an upgrade to the Chinese manufacturer's already impressive Endeavor ED. On the face of things the EDII looks very similar to its sibling, but utilises premium optical components that promise to deliver even better performance.The main … [Read more...] about Endeavor EDII: Vanguard launches new flagship binocular

Minox BL 8×44 HD Binocular Review

July 5, 2014 by Calvin Jones 3 Comments

Pros: a good looking pair of binoculars with excellent build quality and superb optical performance. Very bright, crystal-clear view with plenty of fine detail, wide field of view with large central sweet spot and minimal edge softening. Good colour and contrast. Very good low-light performance.Cons: accessories could be a bit better. Strap and case perhaps don't … [Read more...] about Minox BL 8×44 HD Binocular Review

Swarovski EL 8×32 Swarovision Binocular Review

June 12, 2014 by Calvin Jones 3 Comments

Swarovski EL 32 in the hand

Pros: uncompromising image quality. Bright, razor sharp, high contrast view right to the edge of the field. Outstanding low-light performance, which is particularly impressive given its 32mm objective lenses. Excellent build quality and ergonomics; lightweight yet solid and robust. Superb all-round performance. Possibly the best "accessories" (case, strap, rainguard, objective … [Read more...] about Swarovski EL 8×32 Swarovision Binocular Review

Minox BV 8×25 BRW Binocular Review

April 14, 2014 by Calvin Jones 1 Comment

Minox BV 8x25 v Opticron LE Aspheric 10x25

Pros: very compact design that feels solid and well made. Lightweight and easy to carry and transport. Quite bright for a compact, with good all-round image quality. Large focus wheel for a compact and good quality twist up eye cups make these very comfortable in use. They feel like a "proper" pair of binoculars despite their compact size.Cons: strap lugs dig into my hands … [Read more...] about Minox BV 8×25 BRW Binocular Review

Kite Lynx HD 8×30 binocular review

February 14, 2014 by Calvin Jones 1 Comment

Kite Lynx HD 8x30 Binocular Review

Pros: Super compact and convenient, with great build quality. Exceptionally wide field of view and large central "sweet spot" give that elusive sense of immersion that marks a great binocular. Very bright, pin sharp image with excellent colour fidelity and contrast, surprisingly good low light performance considering the small objective lenses. Superb close focus … [Read more...] about Kite Lynx HD 8×30 binocular review

Minox BD 7×28 Binocular Review

January 10, 2014 by Calvin Jones 1 Comment

The BD 7x28 comes with a very nice neoprene pouch

Pros: Superb optics in a very compact, striking and ergonomic body that's a joy to hold and use... Minox demonstrates its optical pedigree with a bright, sharp, wide image that has great contrast and excellent colour.Cons: Individually focussing dioptres are far from ideal for wildlife. In fairness this is obvious before you ever get the binocular in your hands, but it does … [Read more...] about Minox BD 7×28 Binocular Review

Hawke Frontier ED 8×43 Binocular Review

August 23, 2013 by Calvin Jones 6 Comments

Hawke Frontier ED Review

Pros: Excellent high-contrast  image with vibrant colours and good detail across the exceptionally wide field of view. Very bright optics that perform well across a range of challenging light conditions. Great build quality and finish for the price: feel very solid, without being overly heavy and excellent balance makes them comfortable in use. Good close focus to 2m coupled … [Read more...] about Hawke Frontier ED 8×43 Binocular Review

Meopta MeoStar B1 8×32 Binocular Review

May 29, 2013 by Colin Barton 1 Comment

Meopta MeoStar 8x32

Keen birder and Ireland's Wildlife contributor Colin Barton puts the Meopta MeoStar 8x32 through its paces, and is suitably impressed.Pros:  Great image quality — can rival the best optics on the market today. Very sharp and crisp, with great low light performance and a good wide field of view. Binoculars feel very sturdy and well-built. 30 year warranty among the best … [Read more...] about Meopta MeoStar B1 8×32 Binocular Review

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