Kowa BD 8x25 Binocular (Green)

I've been wanting/needing a compact binocular for a long time, to grab quickly, take on walks, etc., when I don't want to strap on the much heavier 8x42's that I usually use. After reading many reviews and deciding on a "price point" that I was comfortable with, I settled on these Kowa's. They are a very nice-looking binocular, lightweight, comfortable to look through, and great to take on walks. They don't fit into some pockets as easily as I had hoped, but I can deal with that. The focus wheel works well, very responsive to small adjustments, and the optical quality is quite good, though (as expected) they'll never win a side-by-side comparison with a high quality 8x42. But for a compact in this price range, I've found them to be more than acceptable, and I've already seen many birds on recent walks that I wouldn't have seen previously because I probably wouldn't have had ANY binoculars with me. The best binoculars (as they say) are the ones you have with you when you need them!

I chose this binoc, after reading good reviews of its specs, for its light weight and compact size (and green color). It is exactly what I expected and wanted. I use it for birding, both in my back yard and out in the field. The view is bright and reasonably clear (I don't have experience with high-end binocs to compare it with). Focusing takes a little practice due to the short travel of the focusing knob, but it is damped just the right amount for easy focusing with one finger. The binoc works very well for viewing birds in nearby trees as well as a good distance away.

In addition to its good optics, when folded it fits in one of the lens pockets of my mid-size SLR camera bag. This was important to me, as I want to have it with me all the time without carrying it around my neck. It adds negligible weight to the bag. I'm very happy with my choice.