Looking one 20X binocular.

[tico]

Hello,
I have tried some 15X70 binoculars but in some cases they have not worked well for me because some model (BA8) has eye cups too big for my face, and in others because 15X was not enough magnification for the use that I had to give them.
I think that some model 20X can come to me better since I want to use it for long distance observations, observations of airplanes on the one hand and for astronomical observation also ..
My question would be if it could be better some 20x60 or maybe better a 20x80 model, I disregard the model 20x100, too bulky and heavy ..
I have a tripod to hold a weight of about 6 or 7 kilograms, I think the 20x80 model will be less manageable and heavier to use it freehand ... I do not know if it would be worth all this since it will have an intense day use ..
Thanks in advance for your advice.
paul

[johninderby]

My favourite 20x60s are the Pentax ones. Great for astronomy and good enough to just show Saturn’s rings. Have flat field elements as well. Bit heavy so need tripod mounting.

https://www.365astronomy.com/pentax-sp-20x60-wp-s-series-waterproof-porro-binoculars.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuujg6ryg4gIVjr_tCh3H1QSBEAUYASABEgLcSPD_BwE

Edited May 16, 2019 by johninderby

[Alfian]

34 minutes ago, johninderby said:

My favourite 20x60s are the Pentax ones

Yes the Pentax 20x60s are very nice binos. Certainly smaller and lighter than a 20x80, but very well built and with nice touches like the focus lock. The thing that bugs some people is the 2.2 degree field of view, compared to the wider fov of most 20x80s, BUT those 2.2 degrees are very sharp across very nearly the whole field of view and  star clusters are just lovely through them and as John has mentioned, to see the rings of Saturn (albeit very small and no detail) is surprising given the small aperture when all you would expect to see is an oval shape. In the 20x80 format maybe the Helios Stellar 2  might be worth a look but  next up is something like  a Helios Lightquest. 80mm which calls for deepish pockets.

With respect to the Pentax 20x60s Neil English does an in depth review here:

https://neilenglish.net/product-review-the-pentax-pcf-wp-ii-20-x-60-binocular/

[BinocularSky]

+1 for the Pentax 20x60; very nicely made bit of kit, although the case and thoroughly irritating lens caps are nowhere near the quality of the binocular itself. My review of it is here.

[tico]

Wow,  so much thanks  for your kind comments and opinions!!

Regards,

Tico