Bushnell Legacy WP 8x42 mm Binocular

The Legacy WP 8x42 mm binocular is proof that quality and performance need not be accompanied by exorbitant cost. Despite its $122 retail price, the Legacy WP features BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated lenses, which, when combined with the porro prism design and 42 mm objective lenses (for an exit pupil of 5.25 mm), results in enhanced light transmission and resolution. That translates to sharp images and improved low-light performance.

In fact, when compared—informally, in varying lighting conditions at a range of distances—side-by-side to four other binoculars, one of which cost more than seven times the price of the Legacy WP, friends and family selected the Bushnell in every case. The tradeoffs of being a porro-prism binocular, however, are increased size and weight, which are 5 13/16 inches (length) x 7 inches (width) and 26.5 ounces, respectively—still not bad, though.

A neck strap and carry case are provided for transport. Additional features include twist-up eyecups, an individual diopter adjustment, a central-focus wheel, a rubber exterior coating, and adaptability for use with a tripod. Field of view is 430 feet at 1,000 yards, and the unit is both fog-proof and waterproof.

Contact: Bushnell Outdoor Products; (800) 423-3537; www.bushnell.com.

1/28/2013