Pentax PCF WP II 12x50 Binocular

I compared these to my excellent Eagle Ranger roof prisms in 8X42,which I got 10 yrs ago.The Pentax has less depth of field(due to higher magnification,I believe-porros should have greater DoF at SAME magnification)but brightness in dark shadow at dusk was a tiny bit better (again because of 12X,and 50mm).Amazing how you can see in the dark with good binoculars! Don`t have any steady viewing problem with the 12x- the exit pupil on these is same as Rangers, and twice as big as my tiny (old)pupils. Focus wheel was not as good as Rangers,but may loosen up with use. Optical quality is as close as I can tell between the two, despite the difference in style,power and lens size. I think these are a good value(at less than msrp).

The Pentax PCF WP II 12x50 Binocular makes a great astronomy piece. Do yourself a favor and put these 12x glasses on a tripod! Yes, you can hand hold them, but to really get the most out of the clear, sharp view you'll want them on a tripod. I also use them on a window-clamp mount from my vehicle for distant spotting and viewing of wildlife. The view is a significant jump from 8x, and noticeably more powerful than 10x as long as you use a mount. If you primarily hand hold, then 8x will serve you better. Nice waterproof porros at a reasonable price!