Pentax 8.5x21 Papilio, Weather Resistant Porro Prism Butterfly Binocular with 6.0 Degree Angle of View, Close Focus Down to 1.6'., U.S.A.

2014-11-13T19:00:00

I have been struggling with regular binoculars for the last few seasons trying to identify Odonata for the county survey. These close focusing binoculars are just what I needed.I got the 8.5x21 model and I really don't have a problem finding my subject. If it were moving, now that's a different story. For that I would use my regular binoculars. They give you such great magnification the there is no problem seeing the field marks of the dragon and damselflies you are trying to identify. Yes they are not waterproof but then I don't go out to survey when it's not sunny and calm because the dragons are not out.They're easy to tuck away from the weather in the case or a pocket. I would recommend these to any one observing Leps or Odes. They aren't bad as regular distance binoculars either.

ANTHONY S.

2012-07-30T21:00:00

Not waterproof, a significant drawback for a bino designed for field use. The rain cover for the eyepieces slips off easily and will not stay in place - easily lost. The 8.5 X 21 has a very small field of view, very difficult to find your subject, especially if it is moving. Consider the 6.5 X 21 with a larger field of view, even though final magnification is less. Close focus is very nice. Compact size makes it easy to carry the bino on one shoulder and a camera on the other. Will even fit in a generous pocket on a shirt or vest. Optics surprisingly good for the price, but eye relief marginal for a glasses wearer. Given the price/performance, I would buy again but would probably get the 6.5 X 21.

Uncle B.