Cameras and Lenses
Supplied accessories - how do they rate?
OK. We all have our views as to what binocs we think are best (be it Nikon, Swarovski, Leica, Zeiss, Opticron, Pentax etc.etc.etc.etc.). And there are lots of threads on these forums discussing the pros and cons of the different makes (weight, focusing, DOF, CA etc.etc.etc.). But how do you rate the accesories that come supplied with the binocs? On a scale of 0-5 how would you rate the rainguard, objective covers, strap, and case). I'll start off with my pair:
Nikon LXL:
rainguard 3/5 - (a bit too floppy)
objective covers - 0/5 (those that are supplied are easy to loose, and don't attach to the body)
strap - 2/5 (horrible stiff non-bungee type)
case - 1/5 (it can be used when the binocs are in my field bag to keep dust off, but otherwise it's pretty useless. And it doesn't have a carrying strap).
So, these get 6 out of a possible 20 points. Not a good start for the world's best pair of binoculars (my opinion). How does your kit fare? BTW, I have replace all of these items with better versions.
Maybe manufacturers should offer boxed binoculars only, giving the customer the option of choosing accessories to suit. Save resources and save unused / unwanted straps etc. taking up space in my cupboard.
(Originally posted under "Nikon" but better placed under threads about "Binoculars". SW).
I am a bit torn on this issue. I know alot of folks make a fairly big deal of the accessories that accompany their bins. Other than the neckstrap I do not really put much thought into the accessories themselves. The rainguard and objective covers are typically only on my bins if I am storing them or, in the case of the rainguard, in case I expect rain. The case is just a case. I actually have a really cheap soft case for my LXs though I keep them stored in a Pelican hard case when they are not in use.
I would describe pretty much all of the "accessories" for the bins I own as "adequate" but not outstanding.
SW,
I am in absolute agreement on the Nikon accessories which came with the Se and the EII! I also thought that the large embroidered Nikon name and logo were rather naff. My complaints to Nikon were met with condescension and dismissal.
I recently bought a Zeiss 10x32 FL and I have not used any of the accessories! I had a Zeiss camouflage strap handy but I did notice that the case seemed well designed and the objective covers were of the tethered type, which is rather useful.
Happy bird watching,
Arthur Pinewood 