Binoculars of Note
Bushnell Elite
High-end Binocular Round-up, 2008
by Michael and Diane Porter
 Bushnell has recently changed their top-of-the-line Elite binoculars to a new, compact, open-bridge design. Despite its slightly wider than usual objective lenses (43mm), these were the lightest-weight full-size binoculars in the tests we performed for the High-end Binocular Round-up in Bird Watcher's Digest (September, 2008).
They also had the most strongly textured surface, providing a solid, secure grip. The binoculars are well balanced and pleasant to hold.
The Elites' field of view is narrower than most of the binoculars of comparable size, and that is the main reason that they received lower scores in the image quality column on the Ratings Chart than others. However, the image is bright and clear. The eye relief is sufficient in both the 8x43 and the 10x43 models even for glasses wearers.
Bushnell employs Rainguard® water-repelling coatings to protect external glass surface from dirt and water spotting.
Considering its moderate price, the Bushnell Elite is a good value. It comes in 8x43, 10x43, 10x50, and 12.5x50.
 Copyright 2008 by Michael and Diane Porter.
This article appears as part of the High-end Binoculars Round Up in the September, 2008, issue of Bird Watcher's Digest.
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