I researched many binoculars before eventually settling on the Endeavour ED 8x42s and although I obviously don’t have anything to compare it to directly over a period of extended use, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. I chose the 8x binoculars rather than the 10x binoculars because I think this length suits a much wider range of viewing situations and they will be much easier to hold steady. Unless you are viewing things that are always very far away (and I mean 90% of your use), the 8x will be a better option!
Vanguard Endeavor ED 8420 8×42 Binoculars Review
The 42mm objectives let in lots of light without making the bins too heavy or too large to carry around – you want to be able to use them all the time after all!
What other says:
When reading reviews on these, there was much said about the chromatic aberration they produced so wanted to add my experience to the fray. In very bright conditions there is clear colour fringing at the edge of the view (FACT!) but absolutely nothing worth noting in the 70% that makes up the central view – which is after all where you eyes are focussing.
If you were to spot something interesting in the very edges, centralising your view of it would remove any CA worries.
On Handle in real world:
The focus wheel is smooth and precise and it is very easy to lock on to a subject. The gaps in between the tubes allows for easy holding with large or gloved hands and the tethered caps are easily removed and popped back on. If you loop the rear cap through the strap this works equally well.
The locking bioptic adjuster is an excellent feature and the twist out eye-cups allow for comfortable use depending on your viewing style for those with or without glasses.
Pro and prices:
These are my first pair of semi-serious bins (having had cheap small fold up 8x25s in the past) and for the price I was looking in (£200-250) they are absolutely fantastic. I was very apprehensive about getting them as I had had the chance to use a pair of £2500 Swarovski bins and thought that every time I used the Endeavours that I would be constantly comparing them.
However having used them in a wide range of lighting conditions, moving and stationary subjects and close up and far off I can say that they perform excellently across the board and if you like me are a semi-serious user with a budget, you would be hard-pressed to not enjoy every minute using these bins – I have not forgotten the Swaros but then neither has my bank balance!
If you are looking at a pair for up to £200 – seriously consider the extra £50 or so.
Cons:
My only problem with the boxed contents is that the carry case is a little small if you want to tuck the neck strap away inside along with the bins.
The case otherwise is nice and padded (as is the stretchy neoprene strap) and the ability to have the neck strap on the case and the smaller strap section on the bins is a great feature to suit all users.
We gave the Vanguard Endeavor ED 8420 8×42 Binoculars
