A decent pair of binoculars will be okay to use in light rain and humidity. However, you really should think about getting a good pair of waterproofed binoculars, even if you are not the type who likes to look at your subjects while out in the rain. Make sure that your binocular choice is not only waterproofed but also fog proof. If the binoculars have been sealed with O-rings, then they will be moisture proof. Not only will this seal stop moisture from getting inside, but it will also deter dust and other debris from getting onto the lens and messing up your vision. Also, look for binoculars that are Nitrogen filled, as this means that the inside air has been substituted with dry gas and prevents your binoculars from fogging up from the inside. Binoculars that are fully waterproof are also less susceptible to corrosion so are likely to last you a lot longer.

Starting with what's inside, the Vistron Pro models benefit from BAK4 prisms, fully multi-coated optics and phase correction. In simple terms, these layers and coatings ensure the binoculars gather as much light as possible without morning proving a good test. Later in the afternoon, the 8x42s proved their superior exit pupil (5.25mm) could gather more light and keep you birding longer, something worth considering depending on how much time you intend to Released in 2013 as a follow on model from the original Vistrons, the Vistron Pros offer improved optics and ergonomics over their predecessor. There are currently 4 sizes on the market from 8x32 to 8x50 with RRPs starting from The Extra low Dispersion glass used in lens construction together with the multicoating and phase coated prisms give bright and crystal clear images whatever the conditions. The binocular is finished in smooth rubber armour and is really comfortable to hold. The open hinge design isn't just about looks and weight, it also favours the comfort of the bins, allowing for a sure grip even with one hand. On the whole I'm fond of the way they handle, perhaps not as much as (my favourite forWhile everything we've said above is all well and good, what you really want to know is: what are the Viking Vistron binoculars like to use in practise? To find out, we took them for a spin. As we mentioned earlier, the ergonomic design of the Vistron makes it extra-comfortable to hold. That's essential if you're going to be using them for extended periods of time. The fact that they are polycarbonate also helps to keep them lightweight, which aids in this as well. Viking Vistron: The Verdict For general use, you might want to consider a balance between magnification, light-gathering power, and weight. As a rule of thumb, the larger the objective lens, the bigger and heavier the binoculars will be so if you're planning to take on a hike then maybe a decent pair of lightweight compact binoculars would be best.

Choosing the right pair of binoculars can be confusing, especially if you’ve never bought them before. With so many uses for binoculars ranging from astronomy to wildlife spotting, it’s important to get a pair that is ideally suited for the activity you’re intending to use it for. We have developed this guide specifically to detail what to consider when looking for binoculars to take bird watching, along with our Top 10 recommendations of the best binoculars for bird watching. You’ll notice that all binoculars have a set of two numbers, which can help you determine whether they are right for your needs. The first number denotes the magnification (sometimes referred to as the power or zoom). The second number refers to the size of the objective lens. For example, 8x42 binoculars means that they come with 42mm lens with 8x magnification. Explorers, a model I've always been fond of, is much of a muchness optically, offering a very similar field of view and performing on par throughout testing. The Vistron Pros feature a 6.5, 7.4 and 6.2 field of view on the 8x32s, 8x42s and the 42mm models for either better light gathering capability or longer magnification. Which you choose would depend on which factors are most important to you but I have no hesitation in recommending these binoculars. The eyecups twist up and down with a light action and have three set positions. I found the rainguard a bit fiddly to use – I prefer a sloppier fit – and found that using it sometimes inadvertently lowered an eyecup. For me, the central hinge was a little too loose too, though this could be tightened and may be different on a different sample. Perhaps some of these things could be looked at if there is a Mk. II in the future. The lenses are fully multi-coated, which improves light transmission so you get good clear colours even in low-light conditions. Inside the barrels are dielectrically-coated prisms. Again, this helps to boost light transmission significantly compared to models without such prisms. Performance

to be very good and they perform very well for retention of detail at the edges, with only a little softening meaning you get full use of the field of view. Contrast and brightness is also very good, the hazy conditions of a cold November The weathers conditions you'd be using the binoculars in, is very important factor in to, however, with either the Kestrels or the Vistrons, you don't have to worry about the weather interfering with the performance of the binoculars. Both models are waterproof and nitrogen purged to prevent internal fogging. One small difference between the rubber armouring, is that the Vistrons have more texture on the sides, which allows easier grip in more challenging weather. Optic Performance

The Kestrel 8x42's weigh in at 692g, whereas the Vistron 8x42's are 874g, making the Kestrels more lightweight. While the Vistrons are more robust, the Kestrels may be more suitable to carry around for hours with ease. The Vistrons have larger eye relief available, it offers 17.8mm of eye relief on the 8x42 model, which is higher than the average 16mm on other models of the same magnification. The Kestrels aren't too far behind though, as they offer 17.2mm of eye relief on their 8x42's. Additional Features to Consider

We have tried and tested all binoculars in the UK so know what separates the best from the worst.

The view is wide and colours are natural, with a slight yellow colour cast, but nothing problematic. Sharpness is very good, and impressive edge to edge, with a hint of softness around the periphery. The image is bright and the EDs did well in low light, even an hour after a June sunset. The close-focus is quoted as 1.5 metres – I managed perhaps a little under 1.8 metres, but I was impressed. I did see a bit of colour fringing, but nothing to get worked up about and there wasn’t a problem when I watched Swifts against an off-white cloud. FACTFILE