Binocular Question
02-05-2003, 01:24 PM
#2
Giant Nontypical
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location:
Posts: 6,471
RE: Binocular Question
This info came from www.eagleoptics.com
Porro prism binoculars have off-set barrels that are larger and bulkier than roof prism binoculars. Modern designs and production methods now make it possible to produce smaller Porro prism binoculars that may actually weigh less than a roof prism of the same configuration.
Roof prism binoculars are generally smaller and more streamlined than Porro prism binoculars. They have straight barrels and a compact optical design that is able to tolerate rough treatment better, too.
Higher quality models have an internal type of focusing mechanism which gives them a high degree of structural integrity. They are less susceptible to internal fogging and potential dust and moisture entry.
Top quality roof prism models require precise tolerances when manufacturing these complex prism configurations (one reason roof prism models often cost significantly more than Porro prism models of the same quality).
Hope that helps
Porro prism binoculars have off-set barrels that are larger and bulkier than roof prism binoculars. Modern designs and production methods now make it possible to produce smaller Porro prism binoculars that may actually weigh less than a roof prism of the same configuration.
Roof prism binoculars are generally smaller and more streamlined than Porro prism binoculars. They have straight barrels and a compact optical design that is able to tolerate rough treatment better, too.
Higher quality models have an internal type of focusing mechanism which gives them a high degree of structural integrity. They are less susceptible to internal fogging and potential dust and moisture entry.
Top quality roof prism models require precise tolerances when manufacturing these complex prism configurations (one reason roof prism models often cost significantly more than Porro prism models of the same quality).
Hope that helps
02-05-2003, 09:06 PM
#3
Giant Nontypical
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: fort mcmurray alberta canada
Posts: 5,667
RE: Binocular Question
You can buy reasonably priced porro prism binoculars that are quite good.For roof prisms to be of any use for extended periods of glassing they should be phase coated to prevent eye strain.The cheaper roof prism binoculars are not phase coated.If your budget is small I therefore would choose porro prisms.If you budget is larger either will do fine but roof prisms are usually more compact.
02-07-2003, 07:31 AM
#5
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Fredericksburg TX USA
Posts: 123
RE: Binocular Question
Asking which binos are better is like asking which rifle people like better. To each his own. Everyone has different eyes and different hands. Porro prism binos have the zig-zag (the old classic Bushnells come to mind), roof prism binos are straight through sort of like mini telescopes. Many people think that roof prisms are the finest out there but I think this is mainly due to the cost. Roof prisms binos must have more exacting tolerances, therefore the extra cost. But this does not necessarily make them better. If you do some research you will find that one of the finest binos around is, in fact, a porro prism design- the Nikon Superior E. I, for one, prefer porro prisms. They tend to have a wider field of view, and they fit my hands better. I like a wider holding position so that I do not have to force my elbows together when I'm glassing for a long time. The only way to find out which bino is better for you is to go to many stores and try them all. Once you narrow down which style you like then look for features. Pop up eye cups, focusing ring, texture, weight, etc. There are many fine binos out there and you don't have to spend a lot of $. Take a look at Swift, Pentax, and Nikon. The upper level will be Zeiss, Swarovski, Leica. Also take a look at www.betterviewdesired.com. Lots of reviews here and some honest advice. Hope this helps.
