Re: [Paddlewise] ...binoculars

leander_at_worldnet.att.net wrote:
> 
> Well, my dream binoculars are now the Fujion 
> ImageStabilizer 14x42 WATERPROOF binoculars. 
> ...<snip>... they look perfect.

Pretty slick. But as always, there are tradeoffs. First, there is the
weight of 2.86 pounds (ouch!); and then there is the rather narrow field
of view (87.5m at a distance of 1000m) which is a disadvantage of
higher-powered binoculars; and then there is the need to carry yet more
batteries (it takes 4 AAs). While the new Fujinons have some obvious
advantages, they are far from perfect--they involve certain compromises
in their design. Information about these new binoculars can be found at
the following address:
 
http://www.binocularsetc.com/binoculars/fuji/techno.html

For me the weight is the killer. I don't want to lug around binoculars
that weigh almost 3 pounds, particularly when my 8x20 Swarovskis work so
well (bright, sharp, high contrast), are submersible, weigh only 7.9
ounces, and fit into my shirt or PFD pocket. I hold them with one hand
pressed against the bridge of my nose and forehead, which serves as an
effective, low-tech "image stabilization" device. (The position of my
nose and forehead remain fixed relative to my pupils.) I have no problem
using these binoculars in my kayak, although this is a skill that
requires a bit of practice to develop. For me, these are closer to the
"perfect binoculars" then the Fujinons, but of course the Swarovskis
also have their disadvantages.

Dan Hagen
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************