Heavy vs Light Binos and Image Steadiness

[General RE LEE]

The new Zeiss SFLs have a lot of appeal for their lightweight but I’m wondering, would a lighter pair of binos magnify hand shake? I’ve found my heavier rifles and hunting bows result in a steadier sight picture. I’m curious if there is a trade off going with light binos and steadiness.

I’m considering the NL Pures or the SFLs and I’m thinking the NL Pures will have a steadier image. I’m going with 8x.

 

[handwerk]

I find a few extra oz. help me. My hand held binos are (10x) RFB and I can range much better with a slightly heavier unit.

 

[Spiral Horn]

In general, for binoculars of the same magnification weight will be a factor in noticeable hand-shake but that’s only part of the story. Overall balance and handling characteristics also have a large influence. Just about anyone will hold a well-balanced binocular better than a front-heavy set, and that will be much more noticeable over longer sessions. Also, if the binoculars are just plain heavy and feel like a brick most won’t be able to hold them steady for very long.

Hand-shake is also much less noticeable in an 8x vs a 10 or 12x glass. You mentioned interest in the new Zeiss ZFL, which weighs about the same as my 8x42 MHGs. The Nikons are very light but very well balanced for a 42mm - an absolute joy to use in the field.

Personally, I’m not a big fan of the NL Pure’s handling - don’t like the waspy barrels or the hand position the design tries to force my hands into. Others may love this setup, but comparing them side-by-side to my SFs I noticed quite a bit more fatigue when handling the NL Pures for extended periods.

 

[sf jakey]

I went to a cabelas to buy the NL. Couldnt hold them steady. I like the idea but they didn’t work for me, and I’m not willing to take a $3k chance I’ll adjust. Tried a Leica Noctovid and was very impressed with the handling and clarity. Looks like I’m shopping for a newer pair of Swarovski on ELs 8.5x42 to replace my 2003 version.

 

[gr8fuldoug]

If you want to hand hold the NL's offer the assistance of the forehead rest which I think you'll find makes a nice difference in stability

 

[sf jakey]

Maybe. But why not use an el which holds without it for a lot less $$?

 

[10ringer]

I think spiralhorn is spot on with geometry playing a big roll on steadiness. My zeiss conquest 8x32’s at 22oz hold steadier then my 28.5 oz slc 8x42’s.
When glassing for long periods the zeiss shine even more.


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