TheSkySearchers

I have some astro cash in my pocket again, so I'm doing my usual kid in a candy shop routine - Ooooh! I could get that or I could that or I could get that!

Anyway, Obie 8x56 LWs have caught my eye. Any owner / user comments or experiences? Anybody find the 8x56s to be easier to hold steady than typical 10x50s? I'd like a decent pair to take camping (without a tripod) and quick looks out back when I'm pressed for time.

From my experience Oberwerk LWs are very basic binoculars, in terms of optics and built quality on pair with entry level Celestron and Orion binos. Fortunately, Oberwerk has better QC, and check and collimate binos before shipment. Unfortunately, they don't hold the collimation that well and the ones I have received were out of collimation, presumably from rough handling by carrier.

I like Nikon Action EX much better. Of cause they come with higher sticker price, but I felt I will be better off with used Nikon than with new LWs for the same price.

I also not a big fan of 7mm exit pupil. This would work well for very dark skies. Even my desert location is not that dark and 3-5mm exit pupil deliver better views. Between 8x56 and 10x50, I would go with 10x50, but your mileage may vary.

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Of course 8x will be a steadier hold than 10x, but larger objectives may negate any advantage. For my 15x56s I employ a monopod to stabilize the view, even while seated.

Good luck.




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Yeah, I have a monopod and an Obie 5000 tripod and head. I'm thinking handheld for when I don't want to carry any other gear / quick step outside.

I was in Iowa City on business a couple days ago and happened by Scheel's sporting goods. Bought some Vortex 8x42s. They do seem sharper than my Nikon Aculon 10x50s. This is my first pair of roofs.
They had several Swarovskis on display, but I wasn't inclined to take out a second mortgage. Maybe one day...

Congrats on the new glass! 8x40 are very comfortable free hand.

Bigzmey wrote: ↑Sat Mar 16, 2024 9:38 pm 8x40 are very comfortable free hand.

I've had them out twice so far. The roof design seems more ergonomic than Porros to me, but that might just be the "new toy" enthusiasm.