First Impressions of Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars
The Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars immediately strike you as a serious piece of optical equipment. Manufactured by Apex Optics, these binoculars boast extra-low dispersion (ED) glass and a hefty 15x magnification, suggesting performance aimed at serious glassing needs. The inclusion of a chest harness also hints at a design geared toward extended field use.
I was looking for a set of binoculars with high magnification and excellent light gathering for long-range observation during backcountry hunts. Tired of straining to identify game at a distance with my older 10x binoculars, I needed an upgrade that would provide greater detail and clarity.
The unboxing experience was positive; the binoculars feel substantial and well-built, with a reassuring weight and a smooth, tactile finish. The magnesium-alloy body feels robust, and the focus wheel turns with a satisfying resistance, inspiring confidence in the overall construction.
Compared to my previous Vortex Diamondback 10x42s and a friend’s Leupold BX-2 Tioga HD 12x50s, the Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars offer a significant jump in magnification and objective lens size. I chose these over the others primarily for the increased reach and enhanced low-light performance promised by the larger objective lenses and ED glass.
My first impression was one of excitement; these binoculars feel like a significant step up in quality and capability. The clarity of the lenses and the solid build quality immediately suggest they will be a valuable asset in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars on a week-long elk hunt in the Montana backcountry. The varied terrain, from dense forests to open meadows, provided ample opportunity to assess their performance in different environments.
The binoculars performed admirably in bright sunlight, providing crisp, clear images with excellent detail. Even in low-light conditions at dawn and dusk, the large 56mm objective lenses gathered enough light to allow for effective observation, outperforming my previous binoculars significantly.
The high magnification took some getting used to; a steady hand or tripod is almost essential for prolonged viewing. The focus wheel was smooth and precise, allowing for easy adjustments, even with gloved hands.
The only initial issue was the weight; these binoculars are heavier than my previous set, and I definitely noticed it during long days of hiking.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and scouting excursions, the Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars have held up remarkably well. The rugged design has proven its worth, withstanding bumps and scrapes without any noticeable damage.
There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs, and the optical performance remains excellent. The waterproof and fog-proof construction has also been thoroughly tested in wet weather, with no internal fogging or moisture ingress.
Cleaning is simple; a lens cloth and occasional wipe-down are all that’s needed to keep them in top condition. Compared to my older binoculars, the Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars offer significantly better optical performance and greater durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars
Specifications
- Magnification: 15x. The high magnification allows for detailed observation at long distances.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm. The large objective lenses gather more light, enhancing low-light performance.
- Prism System: Roof. Roof prisms contribute to a more compact and streamlined design compared to Porro prisms.
- Exit Pupil: 4.3mm. This determines the brightness of the image; larger exit pupils are better for low-light viewing.
- Field of View, Linear: 273 – 326 ft at 1000 yds. A wider field of view makes it easier to locate and track moving objects.
- Optical Coating: 7-Layer Proprietary SMC. Multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission and reduce glare.
- Water Resistance Level: IP67. This rating indicates the binoculars are fully waterproof and dustproof.
- Magnification Type: Fixed. Fixed magnification offers a simpler and more durable design.
- Color: Black. A standard and practical color for field use.
- Body Material: Magnesium-alloy. Magnesium alloy offers a good balance of strength and light weight.
These specifications are crucial for long-range observation, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The high magnification, combined with the large objective lenses and ED glass, delivers a bright, clear, and detailed image, making it easier to identify distant objects and game.
Performance & Functionality
The Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars excel at long-range observation, providing exceptional clarity and detail. The high magnification allows for easy identification of game animals at distances where other binoculars would struggle.
The binoculars are incredibly sharp and clear across the entire field of view, with minimal chromatic aberration. The included chest harness makes carrying them comfortable and convenient, even during long hikes.
The primary weakness is the inherent instability of high-magnification binoculars; a tripod or steady rest is often necessary for prolonged viewing. However, the optical performance far exceeds expectations, making them a valuable asset for any serious hunter or outdoor enthusiast.
Design & Ergonomics
The Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars feature a robust and well-balanced design. The magnesium-alloy body feels solid and durable, while the textured rubber armor provides a secure and comfortable grip.
The focus wheel is smooth and precise, allowing for easy adjustments, even with gloved hands. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the high magnification, the overall design is intuitive and user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars are built to last, with a rugged construction and high-quality materials. The waterproof and fog-proof design ensures they can withstand harsh weather conditions, and the scratch-resistant lenses are easy to clean and maintain.
With proper care, these binoculars should provide years of reliable service. The Apex Optics warranty provides additional peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars come with a four-point Outfitter Pro chest harness. This harness is made from durable 6000D ballistic nylon and features a soft-touch synthetic suede interior.
The chest harness also features a magnetic latch for silent opening and laser-cut MOLLE style attachment points. The binoculars also feature a standard binocular adapter threading, perfect for pairing with the Apex Spire tripod adapter.
There are no other readily available customization options beyond tripod adapters.
Pros and Cons of Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars
Pros
- Exceptional optical clarity and detail thanks to ED glass.
- Excellent low-light performance due to the large 56mm objective lenses.
- Durable and rugged magnesium-alloy construction.
- Waterproof and fog-proof design for reliable performance in harsh weather conditions.
- Included four-point Outfitter Pro chest harness for comfortable carrying.
Cons
- High magnification requires a steady hand or tripod for optimal viewing.
- Heavier than smaller, lower-magnification binoculars.
Who Should Buy Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars?
The Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars are perfect for serious hunters, wildlife observers, and backcountry enthusiasts who demand high magnification and exceptional optical performance. These binoculars are ideal for long-range observation in challenging lighting conditions.
Those who prioritize lightweight gear or primarily operate in close-range environments may find the high magnification and weight to be drawbacks. A must-have accessory is a sturdy tripod or monopod to stabilize the image at high magnification.
Conclusion on Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars
The Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars are an outstanding piece of optical equipment that delivers exceptional performance in demanding conditions. The price is justified by the superior optical quality, rugged construction, and included accessories.
I would highly recommend these binoculars to anyone seeking high magnification and excellent low-light performance. If you are serious about long-range observation and demand the best possible image quality, the Apex Optics Summit ED2 15x56mm Roof Prism Binoculars are an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your view today!