Olympus Magellan 8x25 WP I: Review

Posted to Binoculars 2009-05-04

Olympus Magellan 8x25 WP I Review:

The Olympus Magellan 8x25 WP I binoculars, is a high-performance binocular built for rugged use. The binoculars are easy to use, compact, waterproof, fog and dirt-proof. Combining outstanding performance with small weight and size, these binoculars are a must have for anyone needing binoculars outdoors. High quality image and durability make these binoculars a great buy. With easy to use features such as long-eye relief and twist-up eyecups, the binoculars can be used by mountain climbers, kayakers and just about anyone else who wants to use them!

The Magellan 8x25 binoculars are nitrogen-filled to ensure they are fog-proof and waterproof in up to one meter of water. They contain high-index BaK-4 roof prisms for edge-to edge clarity. The lens is multi-coated for maximum brightness and contrast. These binoculars offer UV protection and a large focusing knob makes adjusting easy. In addition, the Olympus Magellan 8x25 WP I binoculars come with a neoprene case and floatable neck strap.

Rating:

4.0 out of 5

Quality

The twist-in and out eyecups don't hold their position firmly over time, with repeated use. The focusing wheel doesn't have enough resistance when turning and focusing. The wheel needs to turn counter-clockwise when you're focusing on a farther out object, which seems counter intuitive. This binocular has an excellent close-in focus. The resolution and chromatic aberration is about average for this type of binocular. Waterproof might be a stretch for these binoculars. Water resistant for a quick rinse to clean off the lens might be a better way to express the water-tightness. Don't expect to be able to use these under water for a period of time. The neoprene case is good quality.

Features

The Olympus Magellan binoculars are quite compact, but they don't fold up as small as double-hinged compact binoculars. The overall feel of the binoculars is quite good in the hand, especially for compact binoculars. While having a big center focus wheel is a plus, there seems to be little resistance when turning the wheel. This can be a problem. The field of view is 5.5 degrees, which is narrow for an 8x binocular. Depending on what you're viewing, you may find yourself wanting a greater FOV. The neoprene case and lightweight and comfortable neck strap are excellent additions to these binoculars

Summary

The Olympus Magellan 8x25 WP I binoculars are lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time. With impressive image quality and solid construction, these binoculars are a great value for the investment and their small size makes them quite portable. Overall, these binoculars are an excellent choice for a rugged outdoorsman or the occasional user looking for a pair of binoculars.

Pros

Rugged and durable
Lightweight and compact
Neoprene case and floatable neck strap
Clear and crisp image
Large focusing wheel

Cons

There are no cons for this product