Leica Ultravid Compact Binocular
Hands-on Review
by Michael and Diane Porter
Light, bright, Leica
One of the tiniest of the best pocket binoculars in the world is Leica's ultra small, ultra light, ultra bright Compact Ultravid. The 8x20 BCR (rubber armored) model, shown at right, has been our best-selling top-quality compact binocular for several years. It weighs in at just 9 ounces. It's less than 4 inches long.
Optically, it is superbly sharp, and it is amazingly bright for such a tiny instrument.
We found that the 8x20 has adequate eye relief, which means that even a person wearing glasses can see the full field of view. Of course, the binocular also works great for a person who does not wear glasses. Just pull out the eyecups to their extended position.
The diopter adjustment locks. It's beautiful in and of itself. It's a joy to use something so beautifully engineered.
The whole binocular is put together with the famous Leica attention to detail. It folds up into a tiny, neat packet that will literally fit in almost any pocket.
Four models
The Leica Ultravid Compact comes in four models. There are two sizes, 8x20 and 10x25. And you can choose rubber armored or leather armored skin. We think 8x20 is ideal because of its very tiny size. It also is a tad more glasses friendly than the 10x25. (Both the 8x20 and the 10x25 work great for someone who not wear glasses, but the 8-power is better for someone who does wear glasses.)
Some people want that extra bit of magnification and prefer the 10-power model. And if you don't wear eyeglasses, it may be just right for you.
The leather versions include a high-quality leather carry case. At right is the 10x25 version, in leather, showing the leather case that comes with it.
All the Compact Ultravids are completely waterproof.
See all the Compact Ultravids
©2013 Michael and Diane Porter
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