Black 8x42 roof prism binoculars seen from the eyepiece side
Roof prism binoculars from this series held in one hand, showing the two 42 mm objective lenses (green version)
Roof prism binoculars from this series held from below, green version, showing the focus wheel between the barrels

Binoculars

8x42 roof prism binoculars, black

  • 8x magnification
  • 42 mm lenses
  • Roof prism
  • Exit pupil 5.25 mm
  • Black

Full-size 8x42 binoculars with straight roof prism barrels and a large central focus wheel. Eight times magnification keeps the view wide and steady, and the 42 mm lenses keep it bright under trees and in the last light of the day.

£59.00

Prices in GBP. We are not VAT registered, so no VAT is added. Free delivery.

  • In stock
  • Delivery time: 7 to 12 working days, tracked. Orders over £135 may have UK import VAT and a carrier fee to pay on delivery. (Delivery to United Kingdom)
  • 8x magnification for a wide, steady view of birds that move
  • 42 mm objective lenses for a bright image in woodland and at dusk
  • 18 mm eye relief, as listed by the supplier, which suits most glasses wearers
  • Slim straight-barrel roof prism body with a central focus wheel
  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • PayPal
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay

Product description

Why 8x42 is the classic birdwatching size

An 8x42 is the size most birdwatchers reach for first. Eight times magnification brings a robin on a fence 40 metres away as close as if it were 5 metres away, yet the view stays wide enough to find a bird quickly and follow it as it flits through a hedge. Lower magnification also means your natural hand shake is magnified less, so the image looks calmer.

The 42 mm objective lenses give an exit pupil of 5.25 mm. In bright daylight your own pupil is only about 3 mm wide, so there is light to spare. When your pupils open up in dull weather, in woodland or at dusk, the larger beam keeps the image bright for longer than a compact pair. What the numbers on binoculars mean explains this in more detail.

What we can tell you about this model

This is a roof prism design: the light path is folded inside two straight barrels, which keeps the body slim enough to hold in one hand. Focus with the large central wheel between the barrels.

The supplier lists an eye relief of 18 mm and a body of 130 x 55 x 150 mm. The supplier sells the series as waterproof but gives no IP rating, and it does not state the prism glass or the lens coatings, so we do not claim them either. If you plan to be out in heavy rain a lot, our 12x50 binoculars with an IPX7 rating are the safer choice. Whatever pair you have, wipe it dry after a wet walk as described in Looking after binoculars in wet weather.

Setting them up

Open or close the hinge until you see a single round image instead of two overlapping circles. Then pick something about 20 metres away and turn the central wheel until it looks sharp. If one eye still sees a softer image, adjust the dioptre ring on the right eyepiece where fitted, then leave it there.

Not sure between this pair and the 10x version? Best binocular magnification for bird watching compares 8x and 10x in real birding situations.

What's in the box

  • 8x42 binoculars

Specifications

Magnification 8x
Objective lens 42 mm
Exit pupil 5.25 mm (42 / 8)
Eye relief 18 mm (supplier figure)
Prism type Roof prism
Focus Central focus wheel
Colour Black
Dimensions 130 x 55 x 150 mm
Weight 820 g packed (supplier figure)
SKUBS-842-ROOF
Compare Binoculars

Questions about this product

Are these binoculars waterproof?

The supplier sells this series as waterproof but gives no IP rating, so we cannot tell you how much water it withstands. Use it in showers, keep it out of downpours where you can, and wipe it dry when you get home.

Can I use these binoculars with glasses?

The supplier lists an eye relief of 18 mm. Eye relief above about 16 mm is generally enough for glasses wearers. Keep the eyecups in their lowest position so your glasses can sit close to the eyepieces.

Does it come with a case and strap?

The supplier lists the binoculars only in the package contents, so please do not count on a case or a neck strap. Any standard binocular strap fits the strap lugs on the sides.

Related products