Olympus Outback 8×21 RC1 Binoculars
Olympus Outback 8×21 RC1 Binoculars Review
Olympus Outback 8×21 RC1 Binoculars Feature
- Superb performance during all-around recreational use
- 8x magnification and large 21-millimeter objective lens
- Roof-prism optics and UV-protection
- Slim, stylish metallic silver
- Innovative design enables you to fold the lenses right into the body
I realized with my digital cameras that small size trumps “power” as I most often preferred pocketing the smallest one. For years I packed a porro prism 8 x 42 on trips but never used it because this was too much a load to casually take out and lug.
I am certain my 8 x 21s will also find a place in my pocket just like my tiny camera when I travel, as the folding roof prism design is just cool beyond words.
The apparent image is not “wide angle” but the image quality is quite good across the field. The eye cups click out helically by rotation and, at the extreme out position, fit very comfortably deep into my eye “sockets”. The focusing wheel is a bit hard to access, perhaps with larger hands but this only requires some acclimation. These are not waterproof so some care will be needed in case of damp situations — it is probably wise to have a waterproof baggy if carried when rain or body moisture is a possibility. The small size / light weight is a bit harder to hold steady than conventional style and I would think the 10×21 version would be really difficult. But if you have small hands or if you really value portability this 8×21 is the ticket.
In summary, a very pocket-able and a surprisingly good optical performer — allowing for a slightly less bright image if you’re are used to large porro prism design binoculars. The image quality itself though more than holds its own and is well worth the small amount of money. I don’t think the conventional wisdom that a porro prism binocular is optically superior to a roof prism binocular of the same price class holds any longer. Thank-you CR and fellow reviewers for the recommendation.
Olympus Outback 8×21 RC1 Binoculars Overview
Great views are now easier to find with this slim, stylish metallic silver binocular. A cool and innovative design enables you to fold the lenses right into the body of the binocular so its size rivals that of a small cell phone, perfect when you’re on the go. And powerful lenses complete with UV protection bring impressive sights right before your eyes in stunningly clear, crisp fashion.
Olympus Outback 8×21 RC1 Binoculars Specifications
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*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Jun 23, 2010 12:37:45