New to this forum and new to buying a monocular. (1 Viewer)

[Sashley]

I would appreciate any advice/feedback re Hawke Endurance 8x42 vs Opticron WA ED-R 8x42 Monocular. Primary use will be for bird spotting at home and while out walking. Opted for monocular as it'll be easier/lightweight in pocket/rucksack.

 

[Richard D]

Welcome!

Hopefully someone will be along with direct experience of those models. Do be aware though that generally monoculars are harder to use than binoculars.

 

[Fritz73]

Hola Sashley! A warm welcome to Birdforum from all the staff and moderators

 

[Chris G6 UXU]

Hello and welcome to the forum, enjoy and all the best.

 

[tehri]

Opted for monocular as it'll be easier/lightweight in pocket/rucksack.

In pocket, probably, of course.... But in rucksack, not at all easier than compact binos !!!!

 

[delia todd]

Hi Sashley and a warm welcome from me too. Have a look at this thread which I started a month ago, it will have some useful information for you: Monoculars

I'm sure you will enjoy it here and I hope to hear about all the birds you see when out and about.

 

[William Lewis]

Hi and welcome.

Unfortunately I can't comment on that particular model, actually just checking it made me notice opticron replaced the model I had with the one you suggest, they look broadly similar though.

The only thing that I notice as a negative when using mine is a bit too much colour fringing round things (CA) but the model your looking at claims Ed glass so may have got rid of that to a degree.

I've got the 10x42 for off road bike tours (yorkshire dales this year, can't wait). It works very well for this use - the usual drawbacks of monoculars not withstanding.

Will

 

[Kits]

Welcome to Birdforum. I hope you enjoy your visits.

 

[Mike Crawley]

Welcome to the Forum.

I’m unfamiliar with the equipment you mention.

My only recommendation in this situation is to find a shop that isn’t too far from where you live and try before you buy.
I have only tried a monocular once and it felt fiddly to use, compared to binoculars (even compared to pocket binoculars).

If you have an RSPB reserve close by, you may find that they have a monocular to try (although it’s an RSPB branded item) so you can judge how easy it is to use.

RSPB 8 x 20 HD Monocular - RSPB Shop

Part of the RSPB HD range, this 8 x 20 monocular is great for getting a closer look at butterflies, dragonflies, bees, birds, flowers and anything close by. With its 1.6 m close focus, you can get a really good look, without disturbing them. Find out more and buy online today

shopping.rspb.org.uk

Good Luck

 

[KC Foggin]

Welcome aboard Sashley and enjoy your time with us

 

[beacon hill]

 

[ClarkWGriswold]

Hi and welcome to BirdForum. Can’t help with the monocular sorry.

Rich

 

[lmans66]

Not sure of your budget, if you want a solid monocular...try the Leica 8x20. Surely the best visual on the market. jim