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Upgrade your wildlife-viewing experience with these portable and durable binoculars.
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Binoculars come in an overwhelming array of different magnifications, lens diameters, fields of view, and sizes.
The Maven B1.2 binoculars come in two models: the 8x42 and the 10x42.
If you want maximum magnification, however, the 10x42 is the model for you.
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They are perhaps best for vehicle or boat-based excursions, though, since theyre the heaviest pair we tested.
Thats not to say hiking with them is impossible weve done it many times.
The binoculars use a Schmidt-Pechan prism for superior low-light performance and edge-to-edge quality.
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We think the image quality is stunning, even at night, making the binocularsideal for stargazing, too.
Phase correction coating prevents any loss of contrast, while fully multi-coated lenses eliminate glare and reflection.
The binoculars are both tripod adaptable and impressively durable.
Theyre not the lightest or most compact option.
The binoculars have also been purged with argon, the most expensive and effective form of fog-proofing available.
We found the strap a little tricky to attach.
Other features include an oversized focus wheel and twist-up eyecups to accommodate glasses wearers.
Theyre also nitrogen filled to prevent the internal lens surfaces from fogging up when the temperature changes.
Finally, the rugged, wave-grip rubber coating makes us confident theyd be fine if we ever dropped them.
There is inevitably some sacrifice in magnification and field of view in a model this small.
They fit easilyinto a backpackor vest pocket, and can even squeeze into afanny packif necessary.
Thats not to say that the optics are poor.
Expect nitrogen-purged fog-proofing and an IPX6 rating that protects against powerful jets of water.
They are a budget buy and image quality is therefore not the best.
We were also impressed with how well they held up to rough treatment despite their lightweight construction.
Theyre a little on the heavy side and are not fully waterproof.
With a 42-millimeter lens diameter, these are not compact binoculars and their weight reflects that.
Theyre one of the heavier options we tested.
For the perfect balance of performance and affordability, check out the Nikon Prostaff P3 8x42 binoculars.
The specifications are ideal for use on safari, too.
Finally, theyre nitrogen purged to prevent fogging.
The rim of one of the eyecups warped during testing.
The binoculars have twist-up eyecups offering almost 15 millimeters of eye relief, allowing comfortable viewing for most.
The binoculars are waterproof and have a durable anti-slip grip.
They alsofit easily in a purseor backpack pocket.
Most pairs have been tested in multiple countries over an extended period of several years.
We also noted their water-resistance in foggy and wet conditions.
Similarly, you should consider the conditions at your destination before deciding on the level of weatherproofing you require.
Many binocular models are water-resistant, which means they can handle exposure to light rain.
Internal fog is both annoying and damaging to the binoculars over time.
Its generally accepted that the best binocular magnification for a safari adventure is either 8x or 10x.
Choose 8x for closer viewing in woodland or rocky outcrops, and for smaller or fast-moving animals and birds.
For vehicle-based safaris, choose full-size binoculars with a lens diameter of 40+ millimeters for the best image quality.
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