Kowa Genesis/XD 8.5x44

The unique size of the 44 mm objective lenses on these binoculars offers a number of benefits when compared to the more traditional 42 mm instruments.

Firstly, and just like a larger window in your house, the extra surface area makes it possible for them to capture and then let in more light and whilst this also makes them heavier, the difference it makes to the final product is really not that noticeable.

It also means that Kowa has been able to slightly increase the magnification to 8.5x, for improved image detail without sacrificing their low light capabilities. This can be demonstrated by their 5.2 mm exit pupil which is just about the same size as that of the more common 8x42 configuration.

This bright image and good low light performance in combination with the reasonably wide field of view that they produce makes them the ideal general use, birding and wildlife observation binocular that will excel at closer ranges and will perform well in thick forests or at dawn or dusk when the available light is not at its optimal level.

These binoculars also produce a long eye relief of 18.3 mm, which along with the twist-up eyecups is great news for eyeglass wearers as it gives you the space to be able to use the binoculars whilst wearing your glasses and still achieve the full field of view.

The closest focus distance of 1.7 m is also good and makes this Kowa binocular a great option if you like to observe things like flowers of butterflies at close range on occasion.