Hi,
Some questions for the technically-minded amongst you...what's the difference between these two sizes? As I understand it, you get a v.wide field of view with 8x32s and they are very bright? Are they brighter than the 8x42s, and if so why would anyone buy an 8x42 over an 8x32? Oh, and why are 8x32s considered the 'ideal' size bin? And the best 8x32 bin is....(cont p12, ed)
Cheers,
Andrew
Hi Andrew
8x42 will let in more light than 8x32 but will be a bit larger and heavier. Personally I have Leica 8x32 as I find that after a full day of carrying bins around as well as other equipment that weight counts. If you are young and fit (unlike me!!!) then this might not be important.
As for the best I honestly believe that all peoples eyes are different and you really DO need to try them for yourself. I have tried bins at £600+ that did not suit and some at much less that seemed perfect!
Good luck
James
p.s. If you get a pair of Svarovski and don't like them, send them to me!
Hi Andrew,
It depends on the brand and model of binoculars you are comparing. Not all 8x32s and 8x42s perform the same and they don't all weigh the same, for a given size.
The "8" is the magnification. The "32" or "42" is the diameter in mm of each front lens (objective lens) in the binocular. If you are talking about two well made binoculars, the 8x42 should be able to resolve finer detail than the 8x32. The question is, will you be able to see the difference? Maybe or maybe not. Under low light situations the 8x42 will give a brighter view, assuming your eyes can dark adapt well enough. Brightness also depends on the design of the binocular and the materials used to make the optics and the coatings on the optics.
Some may consider an 8x32 "ideal" because in the daytime you may get virtually the same performance as with an 8x42 and not have to have as much weight hanging around your neck.
Usually the 8x32 binocular will be smaller and lighter than an 8x42 model. I've found often the 8x32 binocular will have shorter eye relief. This is not always true but I've found it more often than not. The eye relief is important if you plan to observe with your eye glasses on. Often the wider field of view of an 8x32 vs. an 8x42 is at the expense of eye relief.
I should add, the 8x32 has a smaller exit pupil than the 8x42. The smaller exit pupil makes positioning your eyes behind the binucular a little more critical. The 8x42 may be "faster" to use, when you put it up to your eyes quickly you can get a good view even if you aren't centered 'just right' behind the eyepeices.
I've also found that sometimes too light weight a binocular can be more difficult to hold steady. Buying a binocular is a very personal thing. It is best to try before you buy. Get one that works well for you.
Good luck,
Rich