Kahles 8 x 32 Loden Binoculars

I have always bought binoculars with magnification on the higher side of normal, primarily to see a deer’s antlers at distance before I commit to a stalk. This comes with compromises such as added weight and less light gathering unless the objective lens size is big enough. However these days I am certainly seeing the merit of using a smaller spec as it does not necessarily mean less performance. In this matter Kahles 8x32mm binoculars are something else, as they combine the best of size, weight and ability with over 90% light transmission for crisp clear images.

IN THE HAND

Physically they feel right; with the lightly textured rubberised finish on the barrels and focus wheel ensuring firm grip and positive operation. This is aided by raised ribs for that all-important steady hold. This also gives a degree of shock proofing, add in the fact they are waterproof so an ideal tool for the all-weather hunter!

They are made from Magnesium alloy and are light yet strong at just 604 grams. Though small they open/close enough to suit most interpupilary distances. The focus wheel is nicely sized and is easily operated by one finger; the movement is precise and easily controlled. Dioptre adjustment is +2 to -3.5 and you can adjust your right/left eye bias this way by rotating the rubberised knurled wheel at the end of the R/H barrel. The ocular lens /eyepieces give a wide field of view 133m at 1000 meters which is another reason for purchasing a set of compacts, ideally suited for woodland stalking. The eye cups are steel but rubber-edged and rotate out to accommodate glass or non glass wearers in click stop increments.

PHASE-CORRECTED

The prismatic system is phase-corrected which ensures images appear accurately and with great contrast. Equally the AMV lens coatings ensure not only 90 % or greater light transmission but because they are optimised to transmit 500-540 nanometer wavelengths they are very effective at low light conditions. Despite the smaller exit pupil than the larger 8x42mm these 8x32mm still achieves a 4.2 exit pupil and twilight factor of 16.2 compared to 18.3 of the other. In reality you are hard pushed to see the difference and the Compacts images are bright and crisp right to the edge of the FOV and they still perform well in fading light. Oilphobic coatings are the last coatings to the lens that repel moisture and skin oils to keep the lens clear from maximum vision.

FIELD USE

I took the 8x32s deer stalking, vermin controlling and just plain holiday viewing; they performed all tasks very well indeed. The weight and the size are a big plus, as they do not tug and are easily tucked into the open jacket with the strap as I usually carry them. If necessary they can fit into a coat pocket if you wish. Other than extreme range observation the x8 mag was more than enough for 90% of the shooting-related tasks. In fact the wide FOV was handy for the brush and timbered areas I shoot over. It allows you not to miss that peripheral movement of a deer that you might otherwise not see. Waterproof, yes I did drop them a few times, that’s the nature of the beast and I had no problems from damp to warm environments and there was no internal fogging either.

Regards image quality; sure an 8x56mm is a lot brighter but also heavy and bulkier too. But these 8x32mm compacts were still very good indeed. Even with minimal light conditions, what there was the Kahles transmitted to my eyes with crisp, clear and good contrast. It allowed me to differentiate between deer`s bodies against the foliage they were feeding in. Considering their size they were excellent performers.

CONCLUSION

You have probably guessed I was very impressed with these binos! They offer all the features of the larger models but in a handier package, feel nice in the hand and stow easily. They come with a good strap and best of all is the image quality which at the end of the day is what we buy bino`s for. Even in low light conditions the little Kahles compacts cut through the gloom and gave not only bright but good contrasting image.

To me they represent excellent value for money and a purchase that anyone would be happy with. Please contact RUAG at 01579 362319 for more information.