The 10x42L’s are Cannons first image stabilized binoculars which are also 100% waterproof. Designed with star gazing, marine and wildlife observation in mind, these binoculars provide both an excellent level of brightness along with the ruggedness required for outdoor use.
In this Canon 10×42 IS review we will examine the features of these image stabilized waterproof binoculars in detail. Below that, you will find that major benefits of using the 10 x 42 L, along with some of their flaws. Finally, at the end of the review you will find our overall recommendation for these binoculars.
Contents
Key Features of the Canon 10×42 L Image Stabilization Waterproof Binoculars
First waterproof binocular by Canon to include image stabilizer technology
Features 2 ultra low dispersion lens elements on each side
Large lens diameter and 4.2mm exit pupil diameter
Sharper images provided by doublet field flattener lenses
Metallic coating to prevent fogging
Benefits of the Canon 10×42 L IS Waterproof Binoculars
- Image stabilization is flawless. The image stabilization on these binoculars is outstanding. There are really no waterproof binoculars that can compete with the clarity of the image produced by the Canon 10×42 L. These binoculars use a push once button to active the image stabilization. This feature is useful because it means that you don’t need to continuously hold down the button while viewing the scene.
- Wide true field of vision. The true field of vision (TFOL) of these binoculars is 6.5 degrees. The true field of vision reflects how much of the scene you are focusing on can be seen through the eye pieces. 6.5 degrees is comparatively a wide range of vision as this is all magnified 10 times.
- Extremely rugged. One of the issues faced by high specification binoculars such as the Canon 10×42 L is ensuring that the delicate optics and mechanicals are properly protected. These binoculars are very sturdy, well protected against rough handling and highly waterproof.
- High quality L glass. These binoculars use L glass which is expensive and often used for high end photographic lenses. This is a very sharp glass, which provides no false image and a crystal clear image. This is particularly useful when using the binoculars for star gazing as it produces no blurring.
- Great apparent field of vision. The apparent field of vision (AFOV) of these binoculars is 65 degrees. This means that to see the entire image circle you must rotate 65 degrees left to right. This is a great AFOV which is near the limits of what is currently achievable. What’s more this is achieved with almost no distortion or blurring at the edges.
- Diopter adjustment capability. Many of the people who use these binoculars will also be eye glass wearers. With the diopter adjustment it is possible to correct the binoculars so that you do not have to wear eye glasses while using them. People who wear glasses to correct astigmatisms will still have to wear their eye glasses while using these binoculars.
Cons of the Canon 10×42 L IS Waterproof Binoculars
- Loose rain cover. The rain cover on the eye piece is slightly loose which means that it sometimes slips off during heavy rain.
- Objectives only slightly recessed. The objectives on the eye glass are only slightly recessed. This means that when handling the binoculars it is easy to get finger prints on the glass.
These binoculars are heavy Compared too many other binoculars. Thankfully, Canon provides a thick neoprene strap with these binoculars. However if you are slight of build, then you may find these binoculars difficult to handle if used continuously. The heaviness of the Canon 10 x 42 L is not a design fault, as it reflects the wide TFOL of these binoculars and the subsequent heavier glass.
Handling Advice
Be careful not to allow the binoculars to get too cold and then bring them into a humid environment. This can lead to fogging when the temperature of the glass of the binoculars is lower than the dew point temperature. This is not only a problem for the Canon 10 x 42L but applies to all binoculars used outdoors.
Canon 10×42 IS Review Overall Recommendation
These binoculars are a wonder of optical engineering in a very compact design making it one of the best binocular. There are simply no other competing waterproof binoculars that provide the same quality of image as these. The Canon 10x42L is highly recommended for any wildlife watchers or star gazers who want high quality optics in an extremely sturdy package.
Best Price on the 10X42 L IS
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Customer Reviews: Courtesy Amazon
One of the users of this binocular have used it on a cruise vacation. Find out his experience using this binocular. Read more
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