Eagle Optics Ranger ED 8x32 Binocular

Okay, I needed an 8x32 binocular for my field work. My high end 10x42 roof prisms rugged but too heavy, and since I do my field work mostly in the woods 8x32s fit the bill nicely. We mostly use song and calls for ID and so a binocular is mostly for getting a nice look.

I am very, very, critical, when it comes to optics. I want excellent resolution and true color, plus a flat field with no distortion. So having looked, I have been reluctant to buy the less expensive brands as they did not meet my requirements. But last year a friend got an Eagle Optics 10x42 ED Binocular and I was mighty impressed. Based upon that I decided to go with the Eagle Optics 8x32ED.

Having now used them in the field I can say they are fabulous glass regardless of the price. Crisp resolution across the field of view so I see every detail I am accustomed to seeing. The color is true and looking at straight edges I can detect no distortion. In low light they are great, delivering a bright image and not losing detail.

A couple of minor complaints. I would like more eye relief for when I am wearing eyeglasses and not contacts. Also the depth of field is a little shallow at short to medium distances and you have to be very precise with the focus to get the best view with this binocular.

While I have not done a side by side comparo against the high priced 8x32 binoculars, I have looked through them and can say these are every bit as good. For me it is about utility, not brand or prestige, so I will buy the best equipment. But I'm not foolish and if there is a wide difference in price with equal utility and optical quality, I see no reason to pay more. It seems that while the physics and chemistry of glass, coatings and optics design has not changed in the past century, what have changed are manufacturing processes. this makes high quality glass, coatings and lenses less expensive to manufacture, and so the price of a truly excellent binocular has come down considerably.

This binocular is just fabulous.