Pentax 10x50 PCF WPII, a problem

[MahlerMoonMan]

Hi folks

I've just received today a pair of Pentax 10x50s PCF WPII bins and straightaway I've found a major problem ....  Upon unlocking the focus wheel, the focus wheel still does not focus!  It just won't budge even a mm!  I have, let me repeat, unlocked the wheel, let me assure you all!  Has anyone else found this to be an issue with these bins straight out of the box?  If they are just 'stiff' then they are unusably so!  At this very point in time I will have no choice but to return them to a certain online 'river' company ....  I am so disappointed I expect i'll just ask for a refund    If anyone though has any advice about any gentle way of solving this problem so that I will have a useable pair of bins then I may avoid returning them, maybe .....

Kind regards to all,

Donaldo

[Astro_noob]

I had 20x60 pcf wp II which were quite stiff but this was actually a benefit as it meant focus was more precise than cheaper bridge focus binoculars. If they are unusable I'm sure the retailer will accept them back and offer a refund but there are few if any binoculars in this price range that equal the pcf wp II binoculars. I would suggest you ask for a replacement rather than a refund as the binoculars are very good for the price.

[Paul73]

I can remember mine being a little stiff, but nothing like jammed.

My lock slides forwards to lock and back towards me to unlock with a satisfying click. They are great binos. Get them to send a replacement pair.

Paul

[Hallelujah]

I own five of the Pentax PCF WP II Porro binoculars.

Three out of the five are a little bit stubborn, when it comes to moving the focus wheel into the LOCK position.

Try closing the IPD down its narrowest position. The focus LOCK seems to work much easier when the barrels are close together.

I would also recommend a replacement, if it is absolutely necessary to return it.

Stan

[Charic]

Such a shame! These optics are still in my top three of 10x50s. Hope you get a satisfactory sollution soon.

[Steve72]

If you decide to replace them perhaps consider the Opticron Imagic TGA WP 10x50 Porro Prisms.

They get very favourable reviews around the forums and are much lighter. When purchasing, I was torn between  the Opticron and Pentax PPCF WP II. I contacted FLO for advice and they advised that optically very little or no difference between them.

I went with the Opticrons because they are considerably lighter and for me that was important. I must say I am extremely  impressed with the quality and weight! I haven't had a chance to use them at night yet, but for daytime viewing they blow my cheap Meade 10x50's out of the water. I had thought the Meades were reasonably good until I looked through the Opticrons, the difference is incredible. The image is so clear and the colours much more natural - cant wait for a clear night!

[Charic]

.......the iMagics were second on my list too! I also spoke with staff at First Light, and their was some  nice reports on the Opticron's, Its down to what they look and feel like at the end of the Day, 

I'm still undecided as to what's best for me, but I still want to invest in a pair of 10x50s

[MahlerMoonMan]

Thanks for all the comments guys .... I'm going to give the Pentax one more chance ... I've read far too much good remarks about them to let this 'experience' put me off .... Respect to Stan that owns 5 of them!!!

[MahlerMoonMan]

Replacement Pentax's have arrived and are fine

[damnut]

Sounds like a good result Donaldo. They are a fine set of binoculars.

[Charic]

Replacement Pentax's have arrived and are fine Needless to say, sky was cloudy last night ... And probably tonight too! Will take them out today for a jaunt up to the wonderful Dunnottar Castle with my daughter

Best wishes,

Donaldo

Did you go, were they anygood?

The PCF WPII are still contenders on my short list.