Zeiss claims the 15x60 with T* coating transmits more than 90% of light. Both porros have adequate ER. I felt the stabilized models had one special quality. When (1)mounted on a tripod and (2) with the stabilizing mechanism pressed and held, the resulting image is unlike any of have seen through a spotting scope, i.e., everything is sharply defined like it is cut from crystals.

The Zeiss's sweet spot is huge, and the entire FOV is useful all the way to the edges. Its light transmission is over 90%. Jame's obvious disdain means that some other user will have a chance to have one of these less than modern relics. On to some data taken from 1992 Zeiss literature. The Zeiss is multi-coated with the T* designation. Light transmission is over 90%. Magnification of course is 15 and objective lens diameter 60 mm. It has the hard rubber fold down eye cups which are replaceable. Eye relief folded down is not mentioned, but it is generous enough to to give full FOV with glasses or sunglasses on.Whilst you get great reach and thus a more detailed view of your subject, the smaller exit pupil produced by the higher power makes this model less capable than the 12x60 version in low light. Note whilst this is a factor, this is not as important for astronomy as you are generally looking at bright shining objects (stars).

A selection of British binoculars from 1946 to 1975: (Top to bottom) Barr & Stroud CF18 (1946), Ross Stepruva (1957), Unfortunately, raw seafood around where I live in Texas in considered similar to toxic waste so, I need to travel far to eat REAL SUSHI instead of a vegetable roll with soy sauce and fake Wasabi. Im a big porro fan (various old and new Habichts and Fujinons...I have no brand obsessions). I'm also a Zeiss noob but I'm looking at this particular 15x60 Zeiss for terrestrial viewing of endangered marsupials during the day and at dusk in wilderness areas mostly accessible by car. I would also use it for raptors too. I'm not into astronomy as much as I used to be...but I still enjoy a glimpse. sold in the UK. The well-known sports commentator, Raymond Glendenning, put is name to Denhill's advertising.John, I skimmed that massive Zeiss tome. I hope I won't be examined on it, but I do intend to read more of it later. Extremely informative. I found the link to the 15x60 BGAT, and I can see now why you made your remark about the crass affordability comments. Otherwise a great read.

The high power in combination with quality Japanese made optics ensures that you get great image detail and definition. I have not used the Garret Signature, but many here find it excellent for astronomy, and some have said that it has less color fringing than the Fujinon.The Techno-Stabi has been around for a long time now, but has just recently been updated and whilst always good, they now have a number of added improvements that include improving the amount of image shake that they are able to reduce. For more: FUJINON TECHNO-STABI TS-X 1440 Image Stabilized Binoculars Review One last thought: Having used the Zeiss with its mechanical stabilizer quite a bit, I find it almost impossible to use one of the stabilized Canons anymore. The Zeiss has such a nice, "quiet" and steady image, that I find the quirks introduced by the electronic stabilizer of the Canons highly distracting. So, if someone's thinking about getting a Canon, don't try out the Zeiss ... As well as this they feature an integrated compass with a rangefinding reticle, which allows you to estimate distances or the size of objects. it is this model that most optimized for marine use. Although a strength is also their versatility as these binoculars are also great.

With a 7 to 15-fold magnification, the NOBILEM series covers an enormously wide range of requirements, at an evenly high standard. From 1958 the model 15x60 with Porro I prism system was produced. It represents a top optical performance and is highly praised in astronomical circles. With 6 models (2x25mm compacts, 2x32mm & 2x42mm), the KF is a budget friendly series which Fujinon advertises as being designed with "mobility" in mind. Many manufacturers cut corners and make binoculars as cheaply as possible. We use BAK-4 glass, others use inferior BAK-7 and make them sub-size. Avoid anything with Ruby "night vision" lenses, they're junk and well below our minimum level of optical coating.

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Compared to the Zeiss 15x60BGAT (the latest model) the 15x60 is a bit better, with slightly higher contrast and better transmission. However, the 20x60S is a lot more versatile in the field because of the stabilizer. I've still got pretty steady hands, but I can't really use the 15x60S for more than a couple of minutes at a time because 15x is a bit much handheld. No problems with the 20x60S, just push the button and enjoy the image ...