This page gives some feedback about some of the equipment used by MNS members.
They might give some pointers about getting such equipment in Madras.
The views expressed are entirely the authors'.
Please send us email if you wish to add your review or contact any of the reviewers.
- Field guides
Olympys 8x16x40 zoom binoculars: Review by Sandeep Apparao
Bought a 8x16x40 zoom binoculars made by olympus for Rs. 3400. It looks good, but have not used much in the field.
Nikon Telephoto lens to scope converter: Review by Preston Ahimaz
Manufacturer and model : Nikon Telephoto lens to scope converter
Specs of the optics : Focal length of lens divided by 10. This means a 500 mm lens becomes a 50x telescope
Approx cost : I paid Rs. 2000 for it several years back.
How long I've had it : Like I said, several years
Bought it from : A dealer recommended by VS Raghavan. Rags was the guy who recommended it to me.
Comments on useability : Weighs little -- 200 grams. Total weight of scope would depend on weight of the lens to which the converter is attached. Upside: you get a telescope for 2000(?) bucks and you can alter the power of the scope simply by changing the lens. Downside : the view is distorted in the periphery -- only 70% (central portion) is good.
Would I advise someone to buy it? You've seen the details -- you decide
Any tips for people looking for binos : Unless you are a researcher or have a tripod or are in a car, go in for small compacts -- the light weight is a blessing on long treks you are unlikely to use them in bad light anyway.
Anything else which is relevant : A keen and burning desire !!
Olympus 8-16x40 Zoom DPS I: Review by Shatrugan T. V.
Manufacturer and model: Olympus 8-16x40 Zoom DPS I
Specs of the optics: 8x zooming capability, can be switched to 16x
Approx cost: Rs. 3500
Owned it for: 3 years
Bought it from: Shetala Cameras, Spencer Plaza
Comments on usability: size and weight Size (mm): 182w x 152h x 58d, handling 790g
Notes: This binocular is absolutely wonderful to use as the clarity and zoom are par excellence. The 16x zoom switch is more of a nice thing to have as you would need really steady hands to use at that magnification. A tripod would be the best bet in such case. This binocular is also quite heavy in the conventional sense and would be good to build up biceps over a period of time!
Olympus 7x35 DPS I: Review by Shatrugan T. V.
Specs of the optics: 7x zooming capabilityApprox cost: Rs. 2300
Owned it for: 2 years
Bought it from: Burma Bazaar grey market
Comments on usability: size and weight Size (mm): 180w x 119h x 58d handling 650g
Notes: Very nice piece of equipment though if you are looking for greater clarity and more zoom capability you can go for the 8-16x40 or the 10x50 which is quite good.
Bushnell Excursion - 8x42: Review by Chithra Viswanathan
Model: Bushnell Excursion - 8x42 (waterproof and fogproof!)It is a roof prism type, with a centre focus system. It costs around $130. It weighs 694g. My brother got it from the U.S. I think its a great pair, it needs a little getting used to. The only difficulty I have is stuffing it into its case. I don't understand why they always make cases just a size smaller than the equipment!