surprised by the clarity and brightness of the image, with no colour fringing in the centre of the picture but some noticeable at the edges. This weather is a real test for the extra low dispersion (ED) glass and given Explore our range of Viking binoculars today, manufactured to outstanding quality and striking a perfect balance between portability and power. Viking have a huge range of knowledge about optics, which is why we love to sell their products. For example, the Viking Badger 10x42binoculars measure in at a length of 14cm with a weight of 590 grams. In comparison, the Viking Badger 10x50has a total length of 17.2 cm and weighs in at 820 grams. As previously mentioned, this increase in size helps to accommodate the wider objective lens size. This ultimately allows for these binoculars to increase the amount of light which can pass through the lenses. This allows for the 10x50 binoculars to deliver images which are much brighter and more defined.

Viking 10x42 Kestrel ED Binoculars | Viking Optical Centres

The first noticeable difference between the 10x42 binoculars and 10x50 binoculars is the size and weight. Due to the increase in objective lens diameter, you can expect the 10x50 binoculars to be bigger in comparison. This results in these binoculars being both taller and wider than any 10x42 binoculars. The larger objective lens diameter opens up more opportunities for the 10x50 binoculars. Being able to participate in activities such as stargazing is a prime example of this. This is still available with 10x42 binoculars - though you can certainly expect better results with the 10x50 option. This leads us perfectly on to the next important factor to consider. Quality of Optics As previously mentioned, the larger objective lens size on the 10x50 binoculars allows for them to offer brighter images. Even in low-light conditions you can expect these binoculars to perform exceptionally well. However, this does not necessarily mean that they offer the highest possible quality. This is largely dependent on the model of binoculars and the glass that they use. Pairing this with the multi-coated lenses helps perfect the overall image. The inclusion of multi-coated lenses helps to increase the rate of light transmission through the binoculars. The viewable image becomes brighter as the rate of light increases. This also ensures that the binoculars can perform in low-light conditions. The Viking Kestrel ED binoculars are ready to perform in all conditions and environments.The eyecups are made from pretty solid rubber, too, and were comfortable to use for long periods of time. They twist up and down to three distinct positions, and stayed in place well – no inadvertent slipping out of place even when they were subject to moderately rough handling. They offer a maximum of 17.2mm of eye relief. The Viking Merlin ED10x42Binoculars are lightweight, weighing only 674g, making them comfortable to hold during observations and easily portable. Built to Experience Inside the nicely presented box you'll find a soft but not very padded, velcro-closing case, which doesn't have its own strap but rather allows for the binocular lanyard to hang outside should you wish to carry the binoculars The Kestrel EDs feature thumb indents under each barrel, although my personal preference doesn't sway either way whether binoculars have thumb rests or not. None-the-less they are positioned well and when handling At the start of 2018, Viking's range of binoculars had a bit of a shake up. A few of their older models were discontinued and a new selection introduced, including the Kestrel ED range. Available in 8x32, 8x42 and 10x42,

Kestrel ED - Viking Optical

like a bit more rigidity at each stop. While they don't exactly slip down, it doesn't take much pressure to change which position they're in, unlike the Kestrel ED and Merlin ED which are more secure.Viking don't provide light transmission percentages, but it's evident the Peregrine ED binoculars are sharper and brighter than their cousins. slender body, they also allow for a very firm grip on the barrels, which themselves have slight thumb indents on the under side. They are very balanced in the hand and the focus wheel is in a natural position for the index finger As a non-glasses wearer, I can't speak for how they fare with spectacles but they work perfect for me with the eye-cups twisted up all the way. Viking Kestrel ED binoculars are waterproof tested at 1.5m for 3 minutes and The Viking Kestrel ED also contains nitrogen in the lenses which helps to prevent fogging. This anti-fogging feature helps to keep your lenses as clear as possible. This ensures that you are able to achieve the highest possible results regardless of the weather. The nitrogen also helps to eliminate any dust or dirt from building up within the lenses. This keeps the binoculars clean and helps to maintain the overall condition of the lenses. Viking Kestrel ED 8x42 Binoculars Both the 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars will deliver fantastic results and are suitable for all occasions. Deciding which option is the right choice for you comes down to what you plan on using these binoculars for. The two different binoculars provide the same design features and general performance providing they are from the same product range.

Viking 8x42 Kestrel ED Binoculars | Viking Optical Centres Viking 8x42 Kestrel ED Binoculars | Viking Optical Centres

When taking these factors into consideration, it is clear that the Viking Kestrel ED delivers a fantastic performance. The combination of ED glass with the multi-coated lenses provide exceptional quality. Furthermore, the binoculars ability to perform in low-light conditions provides them with some versatility. Viking Kestrel ED binocularswith carry case I have recently spent some time reviewing the Viking Badger 10x50 Binoculars. These 10x50 binoculars were exceptional and introduced a wider objective lens to the product range. However, this brought up the question of which option is best between the 10x42 and the 10x50 binoculars. Whilst these binoculars share many similarities, there are certainly some differences that help to separate them. The colour of the overall image is neutral in tone yet vibrant, making them a pleasure to use even just to watch the blue and great tits on the feeders.The comparison between weight is certainly the most noticeable difference here. Binoculars which increase in size will naturally require more glass for the lenses. Whilst this does not look like a big difference, it can certainly impact how accessible these binoculars are. This is especially true for long-term use of the binoculars. If you are looking for binoculars which are easier to carry around, then the 10x42 option is the best choice.