Olivion binoculars

Optical Hardware has just added new models to their Olivion brand of binoculars. The PC-3 series offers six models of varying specifications; 8 x 26, 10 x 26, 8 x 34, 10 x 34, 8 x 42 and 10 x 42. I have selected three options to look at that size, weight and ability should appeal to any hunter! All share the same build characteristics and operational features. They use a DCF ‘open hinge’ design and have waterproof, rubber-coated bodies with long gripping bars and integral loops for the neck strap.

PRISM PROS & CONS

The BAK4 prisms, fully multi-coated and phase coated lenses all combine to give a bright and clear sight picture. The PC-3s use a roof prism, which allows for a lighter and more compact build, which is technically not as good as the older porro prism, which is generally bulkier and heavier. However, if the roof prism has an anti-phase shift coating – as is the case here they can be as good as the porro-type.

Prism glass offers two choices - BK7 and BAK4. The main difference between the two is glass density or refractive index, BK7 utilizes borosilicate and BAK4 uses barium crown. This (BAK4) is a very fine glass with a higher density, which can eliminate internal light scattering and produces sharper images than BK7 which also loses some of the light that strikes near the edges of the prisms. In other words, BAK4 is the material of choice for top quality binos as it gives a full, perfectly round sight picture to the periphery of the lenses. This is certainly the case with the Olivion PC-3’s and in use I found even the models with smaller objectives excelled in very low light conditions.

CLASS ACT

All feature large, twist-up eyecups and an adjustable ocular ring is found at the base of the right hand eyepiece, while the ‘rear and centre’ focus dial is ideally positioned for ease of use. This large serrated outer edge ‘DCF’ dial operates smoothly and positively enabling targets to be quickly ‘snapped’ into pin sharp focus. For test purposes I concentrated on using the 8x models, which I feel are an ideal compromise for most general field tasks and conditions. But on any model irrespective of magnification, the body design is such that they’re easy to handle and use and come supplied with carry case, lens caps, shoulder and neck straps and a 10-year guarantee.

PRICES:
SRP £129.99, £169.99, £289.99
Prices for 10x models are £10 extra to the corresponding 8x model and have the same specifications except for FOV.

CONTACT:
Optical Hardware Ltd, 01226 203275, www.opticalhardware.co.uk