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Non Tool Forum => Gadget Freak and EDC Forum => Topic started by: caninesapien on March 21, 2017, 10:15:06 AM

Title: Monoculars?
Post by: caninesapien on March 21, 2017, 10:15:06 AM
Can anyone recommend a good monocular for hiking/camping etc? I'm extremely short sighted and as such I have trouble with binoculars as I can never quite get the focus spot on for use with my weak eyeballs! Monoculars have generally been a lot easier for me to use but wondered if anyone could recommend any model/brand in particular?

Thanks!
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: gregozedobe on March 21, 2017, 10:37:01 AM
This thread is a good start, but a search of this site for monoculars will find heaps more threads that will probably be worth researching ....

http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,58875.msg1385410.html#msg1385410
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 10:43:00 AM
1) Will you use it with glasses?


2) Do you need short focus?


3) Do you have space restrictions?


4) How much are you willing to  spend?
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Steinar on March 21, 2017, 11:45:33 AM
Some benevolent highjacking for my own purposes. ;) I assume original poster is able to highjack it back, and I hope kkokkolis can answer for both sets of requirements. :)

1) Will you use it with glasses?

Yes. As original poster I'm nearsighted, but I'm not very nearsighted myself.

Quote
2) Do you need short focus?

No.

Quote
3) Do you have space restrictions?

Smaller is better.

Quote
4) How much are you willing to  spend?

“Depends.” :) I know what I have to shell out to get a Leica and I know what I have to shell out to get some stuff which does a fair enough job under simple circumstances. Personally. I'd rather have some information about what I can get for what amounts, than set a fixed limit.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: caninesapien on March 21, 2017, 12:20:15 PM
This thread is a good start, but a search of this site for monoculars will find heaps more threads that will probably be worth researching ....

http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,58875.msg1385410.html#msg1385410

Oops - should have searched before posting! Thanks for this, will check it out.

Some benevolent highjacking for my own purposes. ;) I assume original poster is able to highjack it back, and I hope kkokkolis can answer for both sets of requirements. :)


 :D

Same answers for me, except that I'd be interested in short focus too...
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 02:14:21 PM
I'll try to post my opinion, but, plese, give me time, I'm in the middle of a workweek.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: caninesapien on March 21, 2017, 03:31:19 PM
I'll try to post my opinion, but, plese, give me time, I'm in the middle of a workweek.

No problem, no rush for answers! Thanks for your help kkokkolis  :cheers:
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Steinar on March 21, 2017, 03:35:22 PM
I'll try to post my opinion, but, plese, give me time, I'm in the middle of a workweek.

No problem, no rush for answers! Thanks for your help kkokkolis  :cheers:

 :imws:  :salute:
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 03:45:47 PM
Note that most cheap monoculars CAN'T be used with glasses (or can be used only with flat lenses wich are close to the eye).


Good eye relief costs.



That restricts options a lot.


BUT, if you only have myopia or hypermetriopia, or presbyopia and NO ASTIGMATISM, you can take off (or move a bit) your glasses and observe with medium/short eye relief monoculars.


THAT SAVES MONEY!


And I know of (and heavily use) a smallish Nikon binocular that has lots of eye relief and costs (from the Netherlands) less than the best binoculars from Zeiss, Leica, Nikon and Vixen.


If you aren't one eyed or a cyclops, you probably can use a binocular.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: caninesapien on March 21, 2017, 05:34:07 PM
Thanks for the tips! The two sets binoculars I've used in the recent past have not been good for me - I cannot seem to focus with or without my glasses (note - I am extremely short sighted - if i lost/broke my glasses when out of the house i would be without a hope!) and after using the second set for a few minutes a couple of weeks ago, i started to get a tremendous headache.

I tried a cheap monocular recently and after shifting/moving my glasses closer to my eye than normal, i could see much better than the binoculars I have used previously. That's the reason I was after a monoc instead of a binoc... but maybe i've just had bad luck with binoculars.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 08:05:01 PM
I'll start from the tops. When you see a price you can pay, stop there.


Leica Monocular Monovid 8x20


405 euros


I used it as a binocular (Leica Ultravid 8x20). It is essentialy half that binocular.


Just excellent. It has short focus with an additional lens. Lovelly but pricey. Lots of eye relief, you can use it even with the thickest eyeglasses. Apparent field of view is 50 degrees (call it medium). Quality is too of the tops.


http://www.astroshop.eu/leica-monocular-monovid-8x20/p,16489


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/16489_1/Leica-Monocular-Monovid-8x20.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 11:09:03 PM
Vixen 6x21 ED


399€



Equal to the Leica in every respect, but easier to stabilize, because of less magnification, 6x vs 8x. Better at night because of greater exit pupil. Equal apparent field of view, greater true FOV. For the money I would get the Leica. Haven't used it yet (a friend of mine has it, so I will eventually).


http://www.astroshop.eu/vixen-monocular-6x21-ed-monokular/p,44035#tab_bar_1_select


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/44035_1/Vixen-Monocular-6x21-ED-Monokular.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 11:15:52 PM
Nikon High Grade 7x15


314€


Nikon High Grade 5x15


296€


We are talking about ease of use here. Easy focusing. Less AFOV, 44 degrees. Less aperture. I wouldn't use it for birding or astronomy, but it is great for the urban explorer (roadsigns, museums, monuments etc). Good close focus. They are more of a gadget than traditional monoculars. Expensive.


http://www.astroshop.eu/nikon-monocular-high-grade-7x15/p,13588#tab_bar_1_select


http://www.astroshop.eu/nikon-monocular-high-grade-5x15/p,5292


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/5292_1/Nikon-Monocular-High-Grade-5x15.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 11:21:09 PM
Zeiss 8x20 T*


297€


Great in every respect, equal or better to all of the above. Similar to the Leica but 100€ cheaper. I wouldn't buy any of the above because this exists. Smaller Zeiss (that follow) add gadgetry factor, but this is the overall best buy monocular.


http://www.astroshop.eu/zeiss-monocular-mono-8x20-t%2A/p,5244#tab_bar_1_select


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/5244_1/ZEISS-Monocular-Mono-8x20-T%2A.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 11:29:05 PM
Zeiss 6x18 T*


279€


Zeiss 4x12 T*


266€


These are similar to the Nikon High Grades, but better (and cheaper). Used the 6x18 and loved it. It has less AFOV, 40 degrees, but a very easy focusing (telescopic, push in/out) and great short focus, 30cm for the big one and 50cm for the small one (a reall spy monocular). You can look your SAKs, museum excibits, insects etc with short focus, like a microscope from a distance. Great eye relief (as all of the above).


That's the one I would buy.


http://www.astroshop.eu/zeiss-monocular-mono-6x18-t%2A/p,5243#tab_bar_1_select
http://www.astroshop.eu/zeiss-binoculars-mono-4x12-t%2A/p,5242#tab_bar_1_select


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/5243_1/ZEISS-Monocular-Mono-6x18-T%2A.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 11:33:46 PM
Zeiss MiniQuick 5x10 T*


179€


That's not a full monocular. It's short of a toy for somebody who has 2-3 other optics and wants something to play with. An expensive toy which is darker than the above and with claustrophobic AFOV (less than 30 degrees). Bad short focus. I would skip it.


http://www.astroshop.eu/zeiss-monocular-miniquick-5x10-t%2A/p,5241#tab_bar_1_select


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/5241_1/ZEISS-Monocular-MiniQuick-5x10-T%2A.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 21, 2017, 11:37:05 PM
These where the Alphas. We will discuss the second market segment tomorrow (I call them Betas, because I'm a Greek and I know the second letter of our Alphabet), where we will find those that mortals can afford and they are still very good.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 06:50:06 AM
Minox Macroscope MS 8x25


179€


The first porro after many roofs, this monocular has equal optics quality at a lower price, because it costs less to build a porro and you avoid the need for expensive phase coatings. Minox is the maker of the famous spy camera. This one has excellent short focus, 30cm as the Zeiss 6x18,and an equal exit pupil. But it is brighter (aperture 25mm). Also bigger, without being really big. Eye relief is OK, but not that great. I would buy that (in fact I think I will).


http://www.astroshop.eu/m.../p,12597#tab_bar_1_select (http://www.astroshop.eu/minox-monocular-makroskop-ms-8x25/p,12597#tab_bar_1_select)



(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/12597_1/Minox-Monocular-Makroskop-MS-8x25.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kaput on March 22, 2017, 06:57:50 AM
I mis read the title. Oh man I was really wanting this thread to be about monocles!

(http://qi.com/media/14485416791448541646monocle.jpg)

 :nothingtoadd: carry on  :D
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 06:59:47 AM
Docter Mono 8x21 C


170€


Now, this is a legend. It was first sold by Zeiss, a whole century ago, as Zeiss Turmon. There are many copies (some at a ridiculus price, Russians are better than Chinese, but none as good as the German thing), but this is the real thing, since Docter is the former Carl Zeiss Jenna (the Zeiss of East Germany). So it costs. But it delivers. I have it and love it.
It is a porro. It is incredibly small. It fits inside your hand, so you may observe stealthy (Stasi agents used it to spy). It uses additional lenses that make it a really powerful microscope (Turmon had a stand, but you can make one from a plastic container). It unfolds to a flat piece that fits everywhere.


Inly drawback: bad eye relief. One should use it without eyeglasses. If you don't have astigmatism, you can do it.


http://www.astroshop.eu/d...-mono-8x21-c-grey/p,11532 (http://www.astroshop.eu/docter-monocular-mono-8x21-c-grey/p,11532)


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/11532_1/DOCTER-Monocular-Mono-8x21-C-grey.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 07:15:27 AM
Vixen 8x20


157 €


Vixen 6x16


150€


Vixen 4x12


139€


The "cheap" Vixens (Vixen is reknown Japanese maker of excellent optics) are similar to the Zeiss monoculars, but lack the ED glass and phase coatings (I'm not sure about that, that's an assumption from their price). They also use cheaper Bk 7 glass.  They use a 3x acrylic stand that triples their magnification and adds shortfocus. Very good overall, the small one is incredibly small. At this price I chose the Docter (or would go with the Minix Macroscope otherwise) because it sure has better optics. Still they are better from what follows.


All Vixens are 50% cheaper in the US, something not always true for German Optics (Leica, Zeiss, Minox).


http://www.astroshop.eu/vixen-monocular-monokular-8x20/p,5603#tab_bar_1_select


http://www.astroshop.eu/vixen-monocular-monokular-6x16/p,5602


http://www.astroshop.eu/vixen-monocular-monokular-4x12/p,5600


(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71lVylIsuJL._SX355_.jpg)



Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 07:22:25 AM
The 42s


Minox MD 7x42


149€


Celestron Cavalry 8x42


129€


Celestron Oceana 8x42


109€


Bresser Nautic 8x42


109€


And others of lesser quality.


These are BIG. They also have special use. Most have integrated compass/rangefinder, for nautical and shooting sports. OK quality for most of them over 100€. I won't cover them since they aren't intended for country or urban hiking. Just see how they look.


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/44917_1/Celestron-Cavalry-8x42-monocular.jpg)



Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 07:30:54 AM
The spy monoculars




Eschenbach Club M 8x16


129€


Minox MD 8x16


109€


Minox MD 6x16


99€


Vixen 6x16

79€


These are "spy" monoculars of small size. Most have small eye relief, easy focusing, short focus of 1-1.5 meters. Similar to the Nikons High Grades, which are better. But these are still far better than many Chinese copies. For a spy Monocular I would choose the Docter for better quality but these gadgets are easier to use. Better for indoor use (museums, opera etc). I trust Minox more than Eschenbach.


http://www.astroshop.eu/eschenbach-monocular-club-m-8x16/p,1797#tab_bar_1_select




http://www.astroshop.eu/minox-monocular-md-8x16/p,5140#tab_bar_1_select


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/5140_1/Minox-Monocular-MD-8x16.jpg)





Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 07:42:38 AM
Opticron 8x20 & 4x12 Macrofocus


89€


The bottom monocular pricewise I would choose. Very good shortfocus. Mediocre eye relief, but usable. Some reflections. I have mine in the car permanently. There is a boisting stand, similar to the Vixen's, that I don't have.


http://www.opticron.co.uk/Pages/gallery_scope.htm


(http://www.opticron.co.uk/Images/Galleryscope/GS8x20234.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 07:46:55 AM
These are the originals (together with the Seibert Emoskop which is Galilean and vintage).


There are many copies of these, under the names of Eschenbach, Steiner, Opticron, Vanguard, Omegon etc, which I won't discuss, unless you can't afford one of the above. They usually have worse optics and eye relief. But some of them are usable. I just never used them, so you'll have to take the risk.

There are also the classic Zeiss style porros, which you can get from eBay (vintage) and many, mostly Russian copies of these. They are good (with a yellow tint usually) but their shape isn't good for a pocket. Most are of medium size, 8x30. Good for hunters. I like mine from KOMZ, but I don't carry it.


(http://i1.ebayimg.com/thumbs/images/g/sukAAOSwol5YwSBP/s-l225.jpg)


There are also the telescopic ones, the "pirate" glasses. I have an excellent for Russia (which is zoom also) but they are big and not pocketable.


Generally avoid zoom monoculars.

The expert of the monocular world is this guy here:

http://www.monocular.info



Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Steinar on March 22, 2017, 09:15:55 AM
Thanks a lot! You went above and beyond on this one, kkokkolis! I really appreciate it. This is the best kind of MT.o post(s).  :like:
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 10:58:32 AM
Well, how much would you spend?


I'll link some photos of my portable optics, just for good sense bragging purposes and as teasers.


You can see the Docter C, the Leica Ultravid (as a binocular), the Seibert Emoskop, the KOMZ Zenica, the KOMZ Zeiss 8x30 clone, the Opticron Galleryscope and other optics. A Cardiologist friend has the Zeiss T*, the Vixen ED and some others.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: caninesapien on March 22, 2017, 11:42:52 AM
Wow, thanks kkokkolis! This is amazing! I will need to check the details later (as I'm in work right now) and I will reply then!
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Steinar on March 22, 2017, 04:25:11 PM
I'm thinking of the Zeiss 6x18 or 4x12 T* myself, mostly for ease of use with lower magnification compared to the 8×.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 22, 2017, 10:51:11 PM
That's a perfect choice. For the money, the 6x18 is the better one, brighter and with shorter focus. The 4x12 is smaller, but the 6x18 is small already, a perfect EDC. Optical quality leaves nothing to be desired. Apparent field of view is just 40 degrees but you see them all at once because of great eye relief. With most other monoculars (and all I have, except the Zenica, which is also 40 degrees) you see maybe the central 35 and need to move your eyeball around to get the rest. Colors are bright and precise and you get a 3D phenomenon (despite being a monocular) because of the depth of field. It has the fastest focusing I have ever tried, but it is precise and you can fine tune with just one hand. You get from eternity to 30cm almost immediately. Fasr focus is what you need in an urban or forest enviroment. In open  horizon it's  not crucial, but when you have to read a roadsign or a observe a bird on a tree, you need it. Try it to concerts, theater, etc. And also the zoo and museums.
Don't look your wife's skin with it that close, that might frighten you (unless you need to study a mole and you are a physician).
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: firiki on March 23, 2017, 10:49:44 AM
Thanks a lot! You went above and beyond on this one, kkokkolis! I really appreciate it. This is the best kind of MT.o post(s).  :like:

+ 1 on everything Steinar said  :hatsoff:

Can you recommend a place for me to check out some monoculars (or maybe some small binoculars too)?
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 23, 2017, 01:12:55 PM
You can see some binoculars in our astronomy shop in Athens http://www.planitario.gr/ but, unfortuntely they don't have many, neither good monoculars at shop. They sell Zeiss, Kowa and Vixen, among others, but they don't stock, you'll have to order.
Photoshops in the center of the city sell Nikon, Canon and Leica.
https://www.lamnia.com/el/sc/155/%CE%BA%CF%85%CE%BD%CE%AE%CE%B3%CE%B9-%CE%BA%CE%B1%CE%B9-%CF%83%CE%BA%CE%BF%CF%80%CE%BF%CE%B2%CE%BF%CE%BB%CE%AE/%CE%BA%CE%B9%CE%AC%CE%BB%CE%B9%CE%B1?mid=365
https://www.katerelos.gr/category/310_300/kyalia-kyalia.html?sort=3d
They usually don't stock.
The best selection in Europe is on the German Astroshop.
http://www.astroshop.eu/binoculars/20/a,Fernglaeser.Leistung.Bauart=Monocular?sort=2&size=2
You can make up your mind from there and then search the store that has it at a better price. In Greece we have the Skroutz.
http://www.skroutz.gr/c/1321/dioptres.html?keyphrase=%CE%BC%CE%BF%CE%BD%CE%BF%CE%BA%CF%85%CE%B1%CE%BB%CE%B9&from=autocomplete


Most mono/binoculars that are sold are junk. You have to study frst. If you want, we'll discuss binoculars also. There, the selection is 100x, so we have to define the kind of use first.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: firiki on March 24, 2017, 10:13:29 AM
:ahhh  :ahhh  :D   :tu:

I'd spotted Planitario and I was wondering. The problem is I'm not going to part with more than 100-150€ easily and it's hard to find good optics in that range. I'm picky you see! I like good construction quality and a close focus at about 30cm -I like that feature.

I think I may go for the Opticron, like the one you keep in your car. Mmm, tempting.

I also like the Minox Macroscope MS 8x25, it has good specs and it's not too bulky (but how does one focus with this one?!).

Do you think my astigmatism (~2 degrees on each eye) would be a problem?

Binoculars, I like them but: they're bulky and I find I rarely can get a nice, uniform field of vision with the bigger ones. Some of the smaller, more compact ones work better for me. I'd use them in urban environment but also when hiking. The best ones I've tried were some big, heavy ones intended for marine use. I don't remember the maker but they were :drool: . But this discussion probably belongs in a different thread, right? :)

Show content
Oh, about Lamnia, unless I missed something, it's a Finnish webstore. I found that out when I got my Glock entrenching tool from them; it was the only place listing it in Greek! firiki recommends Lamnia, by the way. I was amazed by how vast the site was and wondered :think: where they were based. Don't go dreaming of handling all the goodies they list, unless you are in Santa Claus' land  :cry:


:salute:

Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 24, 2017, 12:59:07 PM
With your astigmatism, you should wear your eyeglasses, otherwise you'll get a blur. Unless you use contact lenses and then you may benefit by the cheaper monoculars with less eye relief.
There are also small binoculars. See the Leica above?
The Minox Macroscop uses a focusing ring. It is easier to use it with the opposite hand, but some people say that they can do it with a finger of the same hand. I was between it and the Opticron and I can say that the Opticron is smaller, easier to use, but the optics quality left me wanting (I'm spoiled by my other optics, you might not notice anything).
About Lamnia, thanks for the info. They probably used a Greek guy for translation and not Google Translate as others do. Their Greek seem perfect. That's good, because my Finnish are non existent.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 25, 2017, 12:29:38 AM
I had the opportunity to try the Zeiss 6x18 and the Vixen Artes HR 6x21 ED. In short, they are both excellent, sharing their optical virtues with the Leica and the Docter (which is the only one with mediocre eye relief). Everyone has its merits, but, overall, I would choose the Zeiss. Leica and Vixen would be better for humid and dangerous conditions though, and the Docter is the best microscope.
My friend, which came to see the Jupiter with my telescopes, brought with him a nice selection of torches. I liked them and maybe I'll get one myself.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 25, 2017, 09:51:57 AM
Corrected images.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: firiki on March 27, 2017, 10:24:07 PM
The Zeiss and the Vixen seem bigger than what I expected (that's what she etc etc ::)). I wear glasses but I hate using mono/binoculars wearing them. Usually, if the instrument at hand is any good I can get a decent enough image.

My only problem with compact binoculars (other than price), is size. Monoculars are easier to carry in a pocket or a bag. That Opticron is growing on me... :ahhh

In order to have a steady image, do I need a wide eye relief or a wide frontal lens (or both), please?

I completely understand why Lamnia fooled you, it got me as well!

Is the silver torch on the right a Convoy? I think you can have those custom made.

Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on March 27, 2017, 11:15:03 PM
I am a complete ignorant regarding torches.


Steady image depends on:


1. Magnification. The lower it is, the steadier. 6-7x are steady, 8x is steady for most people, 10x for less, over this you need a tripod.
2. Exit pupil. The bigger, the better. 6-7 are very good (even for floating boats), 4-5 are good, 2-3 are difficult (they give blackouts), avoid 1mm. Most monoculars have 3mm, binoculars 3-7mm.
3. Stabilization methods
a) IS (Image Stabilization, expensive technology from Canon, Fujinon/Nikon and Zeiss, but not for monoculars)
b) Tripod. Not for monoculars. When you use a tripod, you are in Spotting Scope territory
c) Technique. Rest your monocular holding  hand on the bones around your eye (supraorbital and zygomatic). That works all the time.
4. You. Parkinsonism, Thyroid and idiopathic tremors, alcohol, tic disorders etc are the opposite of the IS.


Wide eye relief helps with eyeglasses and makes a difference, something like looking through a window vs looking through a keyhole (or soda straw). In fact the differences aren't that extreme, but you get the idea. Also, with wide eye relief (usually it comes with a wide aperture occular lens), when you give the monocular to your sweetheart, you won't get it back with maskara stuck on it for ever.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: firiki on March 30, 2017, 11:55:17 AM
Thank you for this wealth of useful information, I appreciate it :cheers:
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: MadPlumbarian on March 30, 2017, 07:38:56 PM
All I got was a cheap $8 one to toss in my bag, must say not to bad.
JR
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: WoodsDuck on April 16, 2017, 05:04:28 PM
All I got was a cheap $8 one to toss in my bag, must say not to bad.
JR

I'm rather out of my depth in this discussion of optics. I have an $11 Barska monocular that has suited the occasional use I've put it to. Most recently used it to get a closer look at a herd of elk I encountered while traveling through part of North Carolina.

(http://www.brookstone.com/dis/dw/image/v2/AAYH_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-itemmaster_Brookstone/default/dw08d974b5/hi-res/842883p.jpg?sw=500%20500w)

It's reasonably compact and, at this price range, I won't cry if I lose or break it.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: MadPlumbarian on April 16, 2017, 08:04:58 PM
All I got was a cheap $8 one to toss in my bag, must say not to bad.
JR

I'm rather out of my depth in this discussion of optics. I have an $11 Barska monocular that has suited the occasional use I've put it to. Most recently used it to get a closer look at a herd of elk I encountered while traveling through part of North Carolina.

(http://www.brookstone.com/dis/dw/image/v2/AAYH_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-itemmaster_Brookstone/default/dw08d974b5/hi-res/842883p.jpg?sw=500%20500w)

It's reasonably compact and, at this price range, I won't cry if I lose or break it.
That looks almost identical to mine, just mines only a 8x21, came in handy once and I had no beef..
JR
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on April 17, 2017, 09:28:01 AM
They work, as long as you won't look through a premium, or even midrange, monocular and get spoiled.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Alex Verg on September 18, 2017, 11:32:10 AM
Hi, here are some good options(https://www.bestadvisers.co.uk/monoculars) - there is as for camping and for hunting. But I would advise you to pay attention to these:

1) The smallest convenient and correspondingly cheap - Veber Sport 12x25 BR - costs about 20 bucks. Veber generally well proven in optics. If you do not need a lot - then this is an excellent choice.
(http://optica-nv.ru/media/zoo/images/1232-1_0ebcf0c28765a148a22a15e27e8fa56e.jpg)
2)The next great model is Yukon NVMT Spartan. It's just candy costs about 150-200 bucks, but it does a lot of things. In fact, this is a night vision device that will allow you to view a picture at night for a distance of up to 150 meters. This is certainly not the main plus, but a pretty cool improvement of the conventional monocular. The main plus of this model is the ability to use as an objective. I travel quite often and I really like the fact that I can take photos of very remote objects. True, take into account that shooting at night is possible, but the quality will be much worse than during the day. (Yes, I'm using this monocular)
(http://www.365astronomy.com/images/P/24124-yukon-spartan-1x24-gen1-night-vision.jpg.jpg)
3)Well, the latest model is a little expensive, but extremely useful for those who go hiking in the mountains - Minox MD 6x16 A. This is directly a tourist monocular. The advantages of the device are obvious. In the metal case of very compact dimensions and an unusual shape for the optics in the form of a bar, an altimeter, a thermometer, a clock and a stopwatch are built in. For fans of the highlands, the best option is not even think of. The obvious minus is the price of 250 bucks (or so).
(http://www.minox.com/fileadmin/forhtml/images/fernoptik/Monokolar/MINOX_MD_6x16A_web.jpg)
In general, I think of all this, you'll choose something)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on September 18, 2017, 12:10:40 PM
Minox is a nice little gadget.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Alex Verg on September 18, 2017, 12:51:48 PM
Minox is a nice little gadget.
Yes, but too expensive as for me)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on September 18, 2017, 01:24:27 PM
The "strictly optical" version goes for 100.


It's the obvious choice for those who wear a Suunto, Casio, Garmin, or similar watch with ABC sensors.

The Docter I EDC lies flat and you bend it in order to use it. It has better optics (and a higher price).

The Seibert Emoscope was made by the man who made the famous Minox 8x11 spy camera lenses.

The problems with cheap monoculars are: internal stopping of aperture (makes them darker than they should be), chromatic aberrations, lots of astigmatism and a selection of other optical aberrations, according to the model.


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/1329_1/Minox-Monocular-MD-6x16.jpg)
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Alex Verg on September 18, 2017, 01:27:43 PM
The "strictly optical" version goes for 100.


It's the obvious choice for those who wear a Suunto, Casio, Garmin, or similar watch with ABC sensors.


(http://nimax-img.de/Produktbilder/zoom/1329_1/Minox-Monocular-MD-6x16.jpg)
Heh, I did not even know that there is one like this) One of the travelers with whom I met in the Crimea, owned one with all this electric stuff.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on September 18, 2017, 02:23:30 PM
I use my Suunto for that. An MTO member might even have the Altimeter, Voyager, Traveler or XAVT SAK at hand. Then he only "needs" the plain vanilla Minox.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Don Pablo on April 23, 2018, 09:45:42 PM
Topic necro!  :)
I’m looking to get a monocular(right word?) for a relative for their birthday.
This is the link they sent me:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B078L2ZXNR/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_api_vNy3AbESPWP8F
I have my doubts about it......

I seen all the good monoculars that have been suggested in this thread, but are there any “sort of good” options for under $100? They don’t want anything more expensive than that.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Fuzzbucket on April 23, 2018, 09:52:17 PM
Doesn't Luger do a fairly beefy one that's not too expensive?  :think:
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Don Pablo on April 23, 2018, 10:05:50 PM
I know nothing about Luger or Monoculars. :facepalm: :D
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Fuzzbucket on April 23, 2018, 10:21:29 PM
I used to have two Lugers that were alright, but I've just had a quick Google there and... to be honest there's loads of stuff that looks more appealing!  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Don Pablo on May 02, 2018, 07:14:32 PM
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Celestron-71212-42-Oceana-Monocular/dp/B004KLRMII/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1525279351&sr=8-5&keywords=celestron+monocular
 :think:
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Don Pablo on May 02, 2018, 07:56:04 PM
Manufacturers page:
https://www.celestron.com/products/oceana-8x42-monocular
Minimum focusing distance 13m.
The 5.25mm exit pupil seems like a good size.
and 18mm eye relief?
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Gene on June 03, 2018, 08:52:47 PM
Corrected images.

I realize this is an older thread but kkokkolis pictures and positive mentions of the little Seibert EMOscop here and on another monocular thread really intrigued me. I'm a sucker for small optics and this lttle combination instrument looked so appealing.

I went over to Ebay and there was one listed, (the original German model), in excellent condition for $40.00 and I couldn't help myself and went for it. Maybe $40.00 is high but it seemed fair to me for such a well made vintage item.

I can't wait to receive it and check it out. Here's a picture of it from the Ebay auction.

P.S. Thanks kkokkolis! I HOPE!  :D

Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Chako on June 04, 2018, 01:48:38 AM
Here are the 2 that I have. I  bought them for my range kit when I don't want to pack a terrestrial telescope.

(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo005/IMG_5120small_zps3z8v1hhp.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo005/IMG_5120small_zps3z8v1hhp.jpg.html)

The smaller one is a Brunton 7x18.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo005/IMG_5121small_zps3doppzoi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo005/IMG_5121small_zps3doppzoi.jpg.html)

(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo005/IMG_5122small_zpsiurbpzuu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo005/IMG_5122small_zpsiurbpzuu.jpg.html)

The larger one is a 10x25 Barska which I bought dirt cheap at a pawn shop.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo005/IMG_5123small_zpsjyirfrnx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo005/IMG_5123small_zpsjyirfrnx.jpg.html)

(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo005/IMG_5124small_zps5pcyc6rg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo005/IMG_5124small_zps5pcyc6rg.jpg.html)

Both require me to take my glasses off. I feel the Brunton is of higher quality as the image is slightly better, but I do like the larger magnification of the other, which makes reading my hits at 100 yards a little easier.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Gene on June 05, 2018, 07:56:25 PM
Chako, I too have the same Brunton monocular. It's a pretty decent performer.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Gene on June 15, 2018, 11:47:43 PM
I received the Seibert EMOscop the other day. I couldn't believe how small this thing is. It's in like new condition with only a very tiny crack in the smooth black leather case.

The optics in this are incredible for such a vintage piece. Even wearing glasses the monocular, magnifier and "microscope" work great with everything appearing clear. It's a great vintage piece!
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on September 01, 2018, 07:56:38 PM
Do you use it? Did you try the microscope functions? Do you know that you can built a transparent stand out of a ln antibiotics dosage cup (and a SAK)? Having it at hand, you can check signs on the road, read tables, check slides during presentations, read fine print. As a microscope, it takes advantage of a nice LED torch you might have. Look at coins, banknotes, insects, sand, knife edges.
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: Don Pablo on September 01, 2018, 11:54:17 PM
Does anyone else have a problem with the background colours on the previous page being weird?
Title: Re: Monoculars?
Post by: kkokkolis on September 02, 2018, 04:40:30 PM
Me, on the 2nd 1/2 of the page. Too many pictures, I guess.