If you are a serious observer of nature you will probably want to own more than one pair of binoculars. Hunters have more than one rifle, musicians have more than one instrument and birders (and other naturalists) should have not only a back-up pair but also alternative binoculars that are better suited for specific situations. I have high magnification, compact and high definition pairs.

I bought the Pentax 8.5x21 binoculars for a couple of reasons. I like the fact that they are small and compact and for a porro-finder design they are unusually bright and easy to view through. The main reason won't come as a surprise to anyone, I like them because they focus so close. My longer optics (Canon 18x and 15x) will only focus down to 12' or so. This is fine for most applications but not all, especially when trying to look at hummingbirds or any other object that will allow you to get 5' or closer. I often pack these when for birdwatching trips as a back-up. When we come upon something unexpected (like an array of tiny bats on a tree in the Amazon or a huge spider in southwest New Mexico) everyone wants to use my Pentax binos. If you are into butterflies or insects this is the pair for you.

Both of the binoculars in the Papilio series are of an unique "reverse porro-finder" design, meaning that the front elements are closer together than the eyepieces are. It makes for a surprisingly ergonomic feel since the little bit of weight (these are very light binos) is shifted towards the rear, where they will get more support from your grip. I have a little bit of problem with the interocular distance because my eyes are somewhat far set but I got used to it. These are easy to stick in my briefcase or geocaching bag when I don't think that I'll need one, and that always seems to be the time when you wish that you had a pair of binoculars regardless of the magnification. All in all a great choice for an auxiliary pair of close-focusing pair of binoculars.

Pentax 62216 Papilio 8.5x21 Porro Prism Binocular



Average Rating:
Brand: Pentax
Model: 62216
Release Date: 2005-07-01

Product Description:
Named for the Latin word for butterfly, PENTAX Papilio 8.5x21 binoculars are the perfect choice for insect observation in the field and in museums and galleries. The enhanced observation capability of the Papilio binoculars is made possible by a PENTAX Convergent Lens Optical System Engineering (CLOSE) mechanism. The CLOSE mechanism automatically slides the left and right objective lenses toward the center when the focus is fixed at a short distance. Revolutionary dual-axis, single body housing with synchronized eye-piece adjustment to assure correct optical alignment for comfortable viewing Fast and easy center focusing for handling ease Helicoid eyepiece rings for extra viewing comfort Fully multi-coated optics to eliminate harmful ultraviolet rays while improving light transmission for high contrast images with no glare or flare High quality BaK4 prisms transmit more light at the edges to enhance illumination for easier viewing in dim light Included Accessories - Eyepiece lens caps, Case, Neck strap Binocular Type - Porro-prism, center focusing Lens Construction - Objective Lens - 2 elements in 1 group Eyepiece Lens - 5 elements in 5 groups Magnification - 8.5X / Objective Lens Diameter - 21mm Field of View - Real - 6.0 degrees /Apparent - 51 degrees / Field Of View At 1000 Meters - 105m / Field of View at 1000 yards - 315 ft. Diopter Adjustment Range - +/- 4 m -1 / Diopter Adjustment - Click-stop adjuster built in right eyepiece Dimensions (Height Width) - 4.6 x 4.3 inches (116 x 110mm) Thickness - 2.2 inches (55mm) / Weight - 10.2 oz. (290g) Pentax Limited lifetime warranty

Features:
  • No other binoculars like them on the market!
  • Ideally suited for viewing insects, birds, artwork or any other object at close ranges
  • C.L.O.S.E. (Convergent Lens Optical System Engineering) allows them to focus down to 1.6 feet
  • Tough rubber covered exterior provides a sure grip and protects the internal mechanisms
  • Revolutionary dual-axis, single body housing with synchronized eye-piece adjustment to assure correct optical alignment for comfortable viewing
Available at Amazon
List Price: USD 200.00
Lowest Used Price: USD 82.99

Customer Reviews


Through the looking glass
My only prior experience with binoculars has just been limited to whatever random pair a relative has had lying around for years. You can see things closer, but nothing much to speak of beyond that. I did a lot of research and found tons of great reviews on this pair, so I decided to give them a try. I absolutely love these! I was afraid the magnification might not be quite enough, but I found it perfect for my needs. Initially I thought the close range viewing would be a nice bonus that I probably wouldn't use too much, but I've ended up using it quite frequently. It opens up a world of discovery right in front of your face. I use these in a number of activities, from walking around in the woods inspecting things in the distance (and up close,) to watching birds at the feeder, and checking out flowers and bugs etc.. One problem I've always had with the larger binoculars I've used, is the eyepieces were always spaced slightly too far apart, even at the smallest setting. This is not a problem with this pair. I can't say enough good things about this light-weight and compact, but powerful binocular. My only very minor issue is that outside of the carrying case, there is nothing to protect the front lens.


Great for backyard birding
These were a present for my parents who regularly watch the birds at the feeders they have set up outside their window. Although their other pair are higher powered and see a little more detail, they are heavy and give eye fatigue. These are lightweight, easy to adjust and very clear. We did play around with super close-ups with the indoor plants and were amazed at the detail we could see at such a close range. My parents were pleased with them and will probably be using them a lot more than the heavy binoculars. I definitely will consider buying them for myself when we need a pair of lightweight quality binoculars.


really great binoculars
With so many companies making low quality, identical binoculars it's surprising that no one else makes close-focusing ones like these, and even more so that they're so good and inexpensive. I guess you could get slightly lighter ones but they're not worth it given the extra close range you get with these (and they are quite light, if not that compact). The worst fault I can find is that they focus a long way past infinity, but that's hardly a problem. Definitely the best binoculars for the money.


Awesome Binocs
These binocs are amazing! I use them for everything from bird watching to spotting my partner at the range. They are very high quality and I love them. At long distances you can see things you never would have thought were there, and at close distances it's like looking through a an at least semi-high power magnifying glass. The focus dial is very solid feeling and has just the right amount of resistance, and they feel great for holding. I would definatley recommend these binocs to a friend.