Helios 20x100 Stellar


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Brand and Model:Helios 20x100 Stellar
Price ($USD):£299.95
Attributes:un-checked Waterproof un-checked Armored
Objective Lens Size:100 mm
Magnification:20 x
Prism Type:Bak4 Porro
Coatings:Fully Multi-Coated
Field of View:2.5 degrees
Eye Relief:0 mm
Near Focus:0 ft
Weight (lbs):
Dimensions (w/h/d):
Description:Top quality Japanese observation binoculars ideal for medium to long range terrestrial and astronomical viewing. These star performers all feature superior BaK-4 prisms and are fully multi-coated on all lens surfaces for maximum light transmission, contrast and sharpness of image. The large objective lenses combined with high magnifications provide breathtaking optical performance. All models are fitted with an integral tripod mounting bush, except the 100mm models which have a built-in platform for tripod mounting. Supplied with neck-strap and deluxe hard case. (NB only 100mm models are supplied with aluminium case).

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Helios 20x100 Stellar
Using these without a tripod means I have developed large shoulder and arm muscles. My wife thinks this is a bit of a bonus. Unless you're into weight training, I wouldn't recommend this mode of use to anyone who weighs less than 100kg and is reasonably fit.

I had to modify them before they would open wide enough for me to use (the 'bin' part of the word binocular is usually taken to mean for-two-eyes). I find this a common problem with japanese binoculars.

I guess that optically they are a bit better than average. I am very happy with their performance. Mechanically they are very well put together.

I paid £650 (UK) for them, which is around 2/3 the list price in the UK. I have noticed that nobody advertises them anymore. Perhaps they are no longer in production. Having used them, I consider the list price very fair, despite the fact that it is nearly four times the cost of a pair of Helios 20x80s.

I am amazed at what I can see through these binoculars. Even difficult binocular objects are easy to spot. I have never seen the Veil Nebula before, and M57 is so clear I wonder why I haven't spotted it in my old 20x80s. I have rarely had such fun with any piece of astronomical equipment as when I last took these to a dark location (south coast of Jersey, Channel Islands) and spent two hours 'devouring' everything the warm August night sky could offer - marvellous

Overall Rating: 8
Optics:7 Value:9
Weight: 5 (Veritable Vote)
Date:
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Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=141475

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