SwarovskiSwarovski NL Pure 12x42 Binoculars w/FSB Sidebag, Strap, Eyepiece, Lens Cover and Cleaning Kit 36012

Pros:These are the best binoculars I have ever looked through in terms of clarity, brightness, field of view, and chromatic aberration. The field of view of my 12x NL Pure binoculars is wider than that of my 10x Vortex binoculars. The chromatic aberration is very well controlled by the NL Pure optics and the only optical system I’ve used that does better is my Kowa Prominar scope that uses a pure fluorite objective lens. Also, the optics in the left and right barrels are perfectly collimated so that there is no discernible doubling of the subject and eye strain is very low - something that I cannot say for any of the Vortex binoculars I have owned.The binocular design is very ergonomic from the shape of the barrels and placement of the focus knob to the very well-constructed adjustable eyecups. The provided case and sling are both incredibly well-made with thoughtful (if not conventional) design details (the case is a side-slung affair in contrast to the usual chest rig provided with other popular binoculars). Finally, Swarovski has so far lived up to their amazing customer service reputation (see below).Cons:The objective covers have been a minor source of grief for me over the 8 months I’ve been using these binoculars so far. First, when the binoculars are placed on a flat surface (say, on the dash of a car) the rubber straps that tether the lens covers to the barrels rest on said surface and tend to push the lens covers open over time. Second, on my binoculars these rubber straps slowly separated from where they attached to the clip at the bottom of the barrel (see pic). However, while it was inconvenient to no longer have retention of the lens covers, the covers were still otherwise functional, and a quick email to Swarovski had replacement covers headed my way at no additional cost to me.Next, another small issue I found was that the adjustment slider on the case strap was made of heavy metal (much heavier than plastic or even aluminum) and it was coated in a slick finish. As a result, it does not hold the length of the strap well and the slider is liable to chip your tooth if you’re unlucky while slinging the strap over your head. Fortunately, excellent plastic sliders are easy to come by here on Amazon.Finally, I consider the fact that the excellent FRP forehead rest doesn’t ship with these binoculars to be a mistake as this one simple gadget takes these already ground-breaking binoculars to a whole new level.Conclusion:I would not hesitate to buy these binoculars again - even given the issues I had and the astronomical price.

Had them for 21 days now and used them for approximately 30 field hours so far. The thing I think stands out the most is the brightness factor, they are so bright, nobody could ever say they are dull or boring to look through. Every time I look through them at shorebirds or songbirds or ducks or waders or anything, it is exciting due mostly to the insane level of brightness and also because I am seeing life in a way I have never seen it before. These bins crank up the quality of my vision is what I suppose I am saying. It's a bedazzling show of color and clarity and light and nature like I have never seen before. Also, I loved the ergonomics the minute I first held the bins, and handling them in the field for hours at a time never gets old because of how comfortable they are. They are just perfect in the hand. The 12X42 shake factor that some may be concerned about is a non-factor for me. At first, my perception was that they shake the same as or less than what I was used to in a 10X42, but now I don't even notice a shake at all - possibly due to the forehead rest accessory. Their size and weight are easy and comfortable for me. I can't think of much else to say other than they are the best binoculars I have ever owned and looked through.

I've been using decent bins for years, but decided to treat myself with Swarovskis in anticipation of a bucket-list birding trip. I've been ogling them for years and I'm so glad I finally indulged. I was very surprised with how nice they feel in the hand; ergonomically lovely. Lightweight. And so nice to use: my eyes are getting crankier as I get older and seeing birds further away or in dimmer light is more challenging. These bins really made a difference. The package comes with cleaning accessories, which I find useful (I USE my bins...). Only thing I didn't like is if you chose to remove the lens covers, they provide small rubber clips to cover the gap in the edging. They fell off the first day. I now need to contact the manufacturer to see if I can get replacements. And attaching a the harness (bought separately) was really a pain. Fortunately, once it's on, it's on.

I ordered these for my brother, who is an avid hunter. He absolutely loves them! He said they are great quality and uses them often.

These binoculars lived up to their reputation, and their price.Stunning clarity. Extremely ergonomic - they just fit and feel great in your hands. Field of view is fantastic - I don't think I'm missing anything by stepping up to 12 power over my previous 10X Nikons.