Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Bushnell Elite 7x26 Custom Compact binocular
Finally got a chance to examine the new version of an old favorite in the Bushnell Elite Custom Compact 7x26 binocular, formerly the Bushnell Custom Compact 7x26 binocular, formerly the Bausch&Lomb Custom Compact 7x26 binocular.
I owned the original B&L Custom Compact binocular version many years, ago, and loved it. When Bushnell re-labeled it with the Bushnell name and made changes several years, ago, I decided to test it to see what changes, if any, had been made to the old B&L. My review, two years, ago, concluded that the Bushnell Custom Compact binocular was optically similar to the old B&L Custom Compact binocular, but the Bushnell version lacked the overall feel and quality of the original due to its polymer body. So, when Bushnell decided to upgrade this version of the Custom Compact to the Elite Custom Compact, last year, I knew it was time for another test. Did Bushnell just slap an Elite label on the Custom Compact and call it good or did Bushnell really upgrade the Custom Compact as befits the Elite name?
The new Bushnell Elite 7x26 Custom Compact binocular, I am happy to say, returns to the metal chassis of the original B&L and gets us back to that same overall quality feel. The new Elite also features twist up eye cups to keep up with contemporary binocular design and other niceties, such as a new diopter adjustment via a lever, rather than a ring, and a redesigned binocular case. Could have been just luck of the draw, but the Elite I tested, recently, was also sharper at the edge of the field with optics definitely worthy of Elite status. Kudos to Bushnell for reviving this classic porro compact binocular. I may very likely add one to my collection of high-grade compact binoculars and this time I will not sell it.
Comments:
I owned the original B&L Custom Compact binocular version many years, ago, and loved it. When Bushnell re-labeled it with the Bushnell name and made changes several years, ago, I decided to test it to see what changes, if any, had been made to the old B&L. My review, two years, ago, concluded that the Bushnell Custom Compact binocular was optically similar to the old B&L Custom Compact binocular, but the Bushnell version lacked the overall feel and quality of the original due to its polymer body. So, when Bushnell decided to upgrade this version of the Custom Compact to the Elite Custom Compact, last year, I knew it was time for another test. Did Bushnell just slap an Elite label on the Custom Compact and call it good or did Bushnell really upgrade the Custom Compact as befits the Elite name?
The new Bushnell Elite 7x26 Custom Compact binocular, I am happy to say, returns to the metal chassis of the original B&L and gets us back to that same overall quality feel. The new Elite also features twist up eye cups to keep up with contemporary binocular design and other niceties, such as a new diopter adjustment via a lever, rather than a ring, and a redesigned binocular case. Could have been just luck of the draw, but the Elite I tested, recently, was also sharper at the edge of the field with optics definitely worthy of Elite status. Kudos to Bushnell for reviving this classic porro compact binocular. I may very likely add one to my collection of high-grade compact binoculars and this time I will not sell it.
My experience appears to closely mimic yours.
I have had several Bushnell, and well back in the '80's when they were "Bausch&Lomb", 7x26 porro prism binocular "family" in the past 25 years. Now currently, I have bought the "Elite" edition.
The current Elite version optically seems subjectively best of the bunch, earlier versions being very good as well.
My problem had always been lack of any sealing of the optics, especially in the earliest versions.
While some retailers claim the current Elite is "weatherproof", Bushnell says "not". I do know the Elites appear most able to withstand difficult conditions, however this set will still get careful handling as they are an optical instrument.
In closing, the current Bushnell Elite 7x26 impress me as the best edition of these remarkably superb, optically excellent binocular line. (Posted by
Rick: 10:30 AM )
I have had several Bushnell, and well back in the '80's when they were "Bausch&Lomb", 7x26 porro prism binocular "family" in the past 25 years. Now currently, I have bought the "Elite" edition.
The current Elite version optically seems subjectively best of the bunch, earlier versions being very good as well.
My problem had always been lack of any sealing of the optics, especially in the earliest versions.
While some retailers claim the current Elite is "weatherproof", Bushnell says "not". I do know the Elites appear most able to withstand difficult conditions, however this set will still get careful handling as they are an optical instrument.
In closing, the current Bushnell Elite 7x26 impress me as the best edition of these remarkably superb, optically excellent binocular line. (Posted by
Rick: 10:30 AM )