You don't need to believe me or anyone else - go see for yourself!
It has been mentioned by astute users of optics. There are design reasons for it, but that's beyond my realm of expertise.
See if it matters to you or not. There's no right or wrong answer, just that they are not perfect or...
Outstanding, JGR. This is great news.
I know how much you appreciate the last SLC overall.
Wide FOV and good glare control, especially for a 32mm, is a bit of a unicorn!
I "downgraded" from Swarovski a few times.
Short story:
Once simply due to cost vs optics. Twice due to glare or stray light control issues.
Long story:
First was 10-15 years ago with the latest and greatest 8x30 SLC. The overall image didn't agree with my eyes, but I also saw a lot of...
16x HDX that I tried had good resolution in the center of FOV, but it doesn't have a flat image if that's what you were hoping for.
Some have reported that the sweet spot is off centered. I had the non-HDX and there seems to be less color fringing with the HDX but I didn't compare side by...
The new HDX has tan colored armor, and the original is grey. The big sporting goods stores may have both on display. My local SW had both for awhile.
Opticron has its version out as well. Same OEM, I believe.
That's a good question!
I had the non-HDX 10x30 and non-HDX 16x42 in 2022, and later tried the new 16x42 HDX. The IS and weight are excellent. They are awesome for casual viewing, kids and seniors, or scanning on the move. I would highly recommend them for that use.
For "glassing" or picking...
Local shop has the SFL for under $1000. I went back to look through them again and double check the price.
Very tempting but I'd like to compare side by side with the Conquest as some claim that it's a wash optically. Unfortunately mine are on the slow delivery truck. I wouldn't be surprised...
I never weighed the Kowa 8x33, but see them listed at 21 ounces.
I can tell you that going from the 8x33 Kowa to the 8x42 SLC was very noticeable in my chest purse. I expect the same, going back down to the 8x32 CHD. 6-8 ounces may not seem like a lot, but I have other crap in the purse! And...
Kowa 8x33 are probably too heavy for the OP but they are 33mm.
I had the Kowa 8x33, MHG 10x42, Toric 10x42, two Zulu6, and 8x42 SLC all at the same time and the Genesis is a good binocular. Didn't have a compact Maven, CL, or CHD though.
I had some personal issues with the Kowa and sold them...
Let us know what you think, if you get the Maven 8x30.
The claimed weight is impressive with the polymer frame. And having 30mm instead of 32mm surely doesn't hurt.
I do recall some claiming that the actual weight is a few ounces heavier than advertised, but it's still lighter than the Conquest.
I have been blown away by some budget optics. The Terra 8x25 was a killer deal when it was $200. It was very close to the last 8x30 SLC and newer 8x25 CL, when I compared them. The CL had the best resolution and the SLC was best in lowlight and for stability (easier to hold due to size and...
I just got the 7x28 Maven today, and they are going back as well. The sharpness is lacking, but the overall build quality is good. Good eye cups! Bad flare though, and has tunnel-like appearance.
Seems like Maven spent the budget on build quality, and skimped on the optics. I was afraid...
I received the Verano 8x32 last week, but the diopter didn't work correctly and there was damage near the hinge. Sent them back yesterday.
Image seemed pretty good though, just using one eye! Stray light control was very decent. Eye cups didn't maintain position very well. Seems like...
If 242/243 has worked for you in the past, I don't think I would change. It can be a pain in the neck to remove from a receiver though.
242 and 243 work great for bedding, as you probably know. It doesn't provide adhesion, but you already have incredible clamping force from the fasteners, and...