Bushnell Legend Porro Prism 8 x 42 Binocular Review

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(More customer reviews)As I removed my new optical instrument from its box, I noted the slogan, "How the World Looks." The Bushnell Legend 8x42 porro prism binocular lives up to that billing.
Optically, this binocular compares favorably with several competitors that sell for much more. At this specific price point, nothing touches it. With a complement of Bak-4 prisms and fully multi-coated lens surfaces, the Legend's views are crisp, sharp, bright, colorful, and incredibly detailed. Objects do appear slightly blurred toward the far edges of the viewing range, but with a ridiculous 430 foot field-of-view at 1000 yards, the sweet spot is quite massive and leaves very little to be desired.
While the Bushnell Legend porro is not as light as more expensive roof prism models, its weight should not be a deterrent for the average consumer. I have worn it around my neck for hours at a time without discomfort. Furthermore, with its ergonomically-pleasing design and comfortable pop-up eye cups, I have also held it to my face for long periods of time without muscular or ocular fatigue.
The Legend does not focus as quickly as more responsive (and expensive) binoculars such as the Nikon Monarch. However, very little focus is required when viewing objects at a distance, and with practice, the entire range from close to infinity can be quickly covered by employing a two-finger step technique. Frankly, unless you count yourself among the most discriminating consumers, focus speed (or lack thereof) should not deter you from purchasing this binocular.
Eye relief is listed as 15mm, which seems to be accurate. I have lent this binocular to several eyeglass wearers, and with a simple twist of the eye cups, they can see the full field-of-view. I enjoy this option on especially bright days when the sunlight is simply too bright to allow comfortable viewing without sunglasses.
Some critiques mention the inexpensive nature of the objective lens covers. As my binocular came without lens covers in the box, I cannot comment on their quality. However, one call to Bushnell resulted in the delivery of some very nice tethered lens covers, which I find to be not just suitable, but really quite wonderful.
If the tremendous optical performance isn't enough value at this price point, the Legend 8x42 porro is also waterproof and fogproof. I have used it in the rain and in a kayak, and it is none the worse for wear. The Rainguard does seem to have a beneficial effect, as the binocular remains effective, even during a driving rain.
Ultimately, the Bushnell Legend 8x42 porro prism binocular is an excellent entry-level optical instrument. If you are hunting big game in the Savannah or taking a once-in-a-lifetime birding trip to the rainforests of Indonesia, you might consider dropping some extra dough for luxury glass. However, if you are a burgeoning birder, a hometown hiker, or a ho-hum hunter, then you need not look further for virtuoso viewing at a peerless price. If you're like me, you'll find yourself wishing that the world looked this good without them.

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8 x 42mm 19-0842A versatile, all-purpose choice with a wider field-of-view.For those who prefer the traditional style of a porro prism bino, this Legend\' lineup is a crowd pleaser. Like the Legend roof prism models, Rainguard and premium BaK-4 prisms top the list of features to brag about – delivering crisp, clear images in rain, snow and fog. The textured, grippy rubber-armored housing not only stands up to hard use but provides a firm grasp in wet conditions. Offered in three magnifications, from powerful, long-range 12 x 50s to compact, wide-angle performers. Fully Multi-Coated, BaK-4 Porro Prisms: Like our Legend\' roof prism models, Legend porro prism binoculars feature fully multi-coated optics, so every lens surface – on the inside and out – is specially treated to reduce light reflection and significantly increase brightness and image clarity. Our wide-angle porro prisms are made from premium-quality BaK-4 glass, which delivers a significantly brighter and clearer image – from edge to edge.

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