Re: [Paddlewise] waterproof binoculars

From: <rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com>
Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 10:33:47 -0700
dmccarty_at_us.ibm.com wrote:
> 
> |I would like to hear opinions on waterproof binoculars in the 8X24 size
> |range and would prefer them also to float.

I don't think you will find any of them that will float.  The trouble
with true marine binoculars (waterproof to x depth, 7X50 which can see
better at dusk than with the naked eye) is that thye tend to weigh in
the 2 pound range.  This makes them difficult to float even with a
flotation collar attached to the binocular neck strap.

I have been eying what looks like an interesting set of binoculars.  It
is the Brunton 8X24.  It claims to be waterproof and has nitrogen gas or
something to help make it so.  It weighs under 10 oz, which means it
would float with just a small float on the neck strap, even one of those
keychain thingies made of foam you find as giveaways at paddleshops and
boating events.  And it costs just $115 at Eastern Mountain Sports where
I saw it.  Many binoculars don't work well with eyeglasses which I use. 
These one is a delight.  At the price, weight, and claim of
waterproofness, it would be a nice compromise.  The waterproof warranty
is for a year or something.  My guess is that it would do just fine in
bilge water in your kayak and handle a quick accidental dip (say you
lean over while launching and your binoculars dangle for a second in the
water.

Brunton is well known for its compasses and other such tools.  I don't
know what kind of reputation they have had if any in the past with
optics.

ralph

-- 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Ralph Diaz . . . Folding Kayaker newsletter
PO Box 0754, New York, NY 10024
Tel: 212-724-5069; E-mail: rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com
"Where's your sea kayak?"----"It's in the bag."
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Received on Fri Jul 30 1999 - 07:50:09 PDT

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