Redfield 8X 32 mm Rebel Binoculars

by
posted on June 25, 2015
redfield.jpg
Since its acquisition in 2008 by Leupold & Stevens, Inc., Redfield’s lineup of optics has rapidly grown to include red-dot and reflex-style sights, rangefinders, riflescopes, spotting scopes and binoculars. The company has broadened its selection of value-priced offerings, via importation of optics from Asia, to include the Rebel line of binoculars. The 8X 32 mm model is reviewed here.

undefinedThe aluminum-chassis Rebel weighs only 17 ozs. and measures 4¾" in length (with twist-up eyecups extended) and 5¼" wide (fully opened)—a benefit of the in-line roof-prism design. According to Redfield, it uses “premium” BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated lenses—i.e. all air-to-glass surfaces have numerous layers of antireflection coatings for maximum brightness, resolution and edge-to-edge clarity.

Focusing is by way of a central wheel that features rows of raised, dimpled ridges to increase purchase when making adjustments. Both it and the diopter adjustment wheel—located on the right barrel, immediately forward of the twist-up eyecup—offer enough resistance that they are unlikely to be unintentionally moved during normal use.

The sample 8X 32 mm Rebel was evaluated and rated for optical quality, mechanics/craftsmanship and durability. Concerning the former, in a range of natural and artificial lighting, edge-to-edge clarity, contrast, resolution, and color fidelity were judged to be quite good, as was brightness. As for mechanics, no misalignment of the barrels was noted.

undefinedPerhaps our only complaint was found in the twist-up eyecups; despite having defined audible and tactile “stops,” the eyecups could move back and forth 1/16" or more, which could prevent the unit from being square with the face. Also, the right eyecup was noticeably looser than that on the left barrel. We subjected the Rebel to drop testing from a height of 4 ft., from which it emerged unscathed, and we froze it overnight and then submerged it in hot water. Outside of the normal external fogging and minute internal fogging (nitrogen purging cannot remove all of the air, and it cleared very rapidly), it was found to be both waterproof and fog-proof.

Based upon our testing, the compact and lightweight Rebel 8X 32 mm binocular—despite its being an imported optic meant for the cost-conscious consumer—appears capable of faithful service for many seasons afield, whether chasing whitetails in “big woods” or antelope on the prairies.

Latest

Forehand & Wadsworth British Bull-Dog right-side view nickel-plated gun revolver with black grip
Forehand & Wadsworth British Bull-Dog right-side view nickel-plated gun revolver with black grip

I Have This Old Gun: Forehand & Wadsworth British Bull-Dog

Many eagle-eyed NRA members viewing the 1993 Western “Tombstone” no doubt recognized the Forehand & Wadsworth British Bull-Dog so deftly welded by actress Joanna Pacula, portraying Big Nose Kate, during a contemptuous card game between Doc Holliday and Ed Bailey.

Medal Of Honor Marine Receives Henry Repeating Arms Tribute

Henry Repeating Arms presented a Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary Tribute Edition rifle to Maj. Gen. Livingston for going above and beyond the call of duty on May 2, 1968, during the Battle of Dai Do in Vietnam.

Preview: Duramag 1911 DS Magazines

Duramag’s 1911 DS Magazines are compatible with numerous 9 mm Luger-chambered 2011-style handguns on the market.

Colt Monitor: The FBI’s “Fighting Rifle”

In the years between the World Wars, a rare variation of the Browning Automatic Rifle proved its reputation as an effective, devastating automatic rifle for combat between the country’s lawmen and its outlaws.

The Armed Citizen® May 19, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Report Shows Inventory, Prices Have Dropped At Firearm Retailers

Nearly all gun and related gear inventories at retailers dropped in the last 12 months. So have most prices paid at the counter, according to the year-over-year comparison detailed in the latest RetailBI report.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.