Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular Review

First Impressions of Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular

The Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular promises premium optical performance in an ultra-compact, lightweight package, and as an experienced outdoor enthusiast, that’s a siren song I couldn’t ignore. Opticron, a brand known for its quality optics and affordable prices, aims to deliver enhanced brightness, sharpness, and color contrast through its ED glass objectives and wide-field eyepiece design. These binoculars seemed like the ideal companion for my upcoming hiking and birdwatching trips, offering the potential for serious observation without the burden of bulky equipment.

My aging pair of 10×42 binoculars were proving to be too heavy for long treks, and the narrower field of view was making it difficult to track fast-moving birds. I was searching for a smaller, lighter alternative with a wider field of view and better low-light performance. The published specifications of the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular, specifically the ED glass, wide field of view, and lightweight design, drew me in.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the size and weight – these binoculars are remarkably compact and lightweight. The rubber armor feels durable and provides a secure grip, and the focus wheel is smooth and precise. Compared to my old binoculars and a similarly priced Bushnell model, the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular felt more refined and significantly lighter in hand.

I was immediately excited by the potential of these binoculars. They felt like a significant upgrade from my existing optics, promising a brighter, sharper, and more immersive viewing experience. The initial impression was one of quality and thoughtful design, setting high expectations for their performance in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular was a weekend hiking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I subjected them to diverse conditions, from bright sunlight in open meadows to shaded forests and even a brief rain shower. The Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular performed admirably in all scenarios, delivering crisp, bright images with excellent color fidelity.

The binoculars proved to be exceptionally easy to use right out of the box. The center focus wheel is smooth and responsive, allowing for quick and precise adjustments. The wide field of view made it significantly easier to track birds in flight and scan the landscape for wildlife. The close focus distance of 1.2 meters also came in handy for observing insects and wildflowers up close.

The only initial surprise was the relatively small size of the eyecups; while comfortable, I needed to adjust them carefully to block out stray light for optimal viewing. Other than that, the first outing was a complete success, confirming my initial excitement about these binoculars.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular continues to impress me with its consistent performance and durability. They’ve accompanied me on numerous hiking trips, birdwatching expeditions, and even a fishing trip, and have stood up to the rigors of outdoor use with minimal signs of wear and tear. The rubber armor has proven to be quite resilient, protecting the binoculars from bumps and scratches.

Cleaning is simple; a soft cloth and occasional lens cleaning solution are all that’s needed to maintain optimal clarity. Compared to other binoculars I’ve owned, the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular truly shines in low-light conditions, thanks to the ED glass and multi-coated optics. They outperform my previous binoculars significantly, allowing for extended viewing during dawn and dusk.

The reliability and ease of use of these binoculars have made them my go-to choice for all my outdoor adventures. I appreciate their lightweight design, comfortable ergonomics, and consistent optical performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular

Specifications

The Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular boasts an impressive array of specifications for its price point. It features an 8x magnification and 32mm objective lenses, providing a balance of magnification and light gathering ability. The roof prism design contributes to its compact and lightweight form factor, while the BAK4 prism material ensures optimal light transmission and image clarity.

These binoculars are not equipped with image stabilization, but the 8x magnification is low enough that it’s not really needed. The 18mm eye relief makes them comfortable to use with eyeglasses, and the 4mm exit pupil provides ample light for comfortable viewing. The wide 8-degree field of view (140m at 1000m) offers a panoramic viewing experience, while the fully multi-coated optics maximize light transmission and minimize glare.

The center focus system is smooth and precise, and the 1.2m close focus distance allows for detailed observation of nearby objects. The +/- 6 dpt diopter adjustment range accommodates individual vision differences. The waterproof construction ensures reliable performance in wet conditions. Finally, the compact dimensions (108mm length, 117mm width, 42mm depth) and lightweight design (13.8 oz) make them easy to carry all day.

Performance & Functionality

The Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular excels in its primary function: providing clear, bright, and detailed images. The ED glass effectively minimizes chromatic aberration (color fringing), resulting in sharp, high-contrast images with accurate color reproduction. The wide field of view makes it easy to locate and track subjects, while the smooth focus system allows for quick and precise adjustments.

The binoculars perform particularly well in low-light conditions, thanks to the fully multi-coated optics and ample exit pupil. While not as bright as larger objective lens models, they still provide a usable image in twilight and heavily shaded environments. A minor weakness is the slightly smaller eyecups, which may require some adjustment to block out stray light for some users. Overall, the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular meets and often exceeds expectations for a binocular in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular is impressive for its price. The polycarbonate body is lightweight yet sturdy, and the natural rubber armor provides a secure and comfortable grip. The binoculars feel well-balanced in hand, and the compact size makes them easy to handle even for users with smaller hands.

The twist-type retractable eyecups are a nice touch, allowing for comfortable use with or without eyeglasses. The center focus wheel is smooth and precise, and the diopter adjustment is easy to use and stays in place once set. The design is user-friendly, with no steep learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The waterproof and nitrogen-filled construction of the Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular ensures long-lasting performance in various weather conditions. The rubber armor provides adequate protection against bumps and scratches, and the overall build quality suggests that these binoculars will withstand years of use with proper care. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and lens cleaning solution.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular comes with a basic set of accessories, including a neck strap, lens covers, and a carrying case. There are no readily available customization options, such as aftermarket grips or lens filters, for this model. However, the binoculars are compatible with standard tripod adapters, allowing for stable viewing on a tripod or monopod.

Pros and Cons of Opticron Discovery WA ED 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular