I own Leica 8x20 and have used it almost daily for four years. It is a great performer for its tiny size, but it flares quite badly when viewing anywhere near the sun. This is obviously annoying when using it early or late in the day.
I would like to know from those who own Zeiss Victory, Nikon HG, and Swarovksi 8x20 whether those binoculars also exhibit pronounced flare.
I've just bought nikon 8x20hg after comparing a few of the 8x20s you mention, and have been using them a lot over the last few days. This morning, i was looking over the ocean at sea bird, ships etc, and viewing towards the reflected sunlight off the ocean which is usually very challenging for most bins i have tried. I think i did notice slightly more flare than some full size bins, but it was still very acceptable and comfortable viewing. I am very impressed with how these little bins perform - way beyond what i would have expected from an 8x20. Perhaps you could look towards something located close to a strong light source in a store, to make a comparison?
[QUOTE=Jonathan B.]I own Leica 8x20 and have used it almost daily for four years. It is a great performer for its tiny size, but it flares quite badly when viewing anywhere near the sun. This is obviously annoying when using it early or late in the day.
I would like to know from those who own Zeiss Victory, Nikon HG, and Swarovksi 8x20 whether those binoculars also exhibit pronounced flare.[/QUOTE]
The Zeiss 8x20 Classic also exhibits pronounced flare in the situation you mention. Allowing one hand to extend beyond the objectives and thus act as a sun shield cures the problem.
Leif