What kind of tripod is required for the Kowa High Lander PROMINAR?
Due to its substantial 6.2 kg (14 lb) weight, the Kowa High Lander PROMINAR requires a strong and sturdy tripod with a high load capacity. It can be used with a standard camera tripod (1/4 in) or a large type tripod (3/8 in); for 3/8 in, remove the adapter screw from the tripod mount.
How do I focus the Kowa High Lander PROMINAR?
The High Lander uses an individual eyepiece focus system instead of a central focus knob. Each eyepiece has its own rotating focusing ring located just below it. This allows you to set the focus for each eye independently, achieving a sharp image for your vision and compensating for any differences between your eyes.
What is the main benefit of the 82mm pure fluorite crystal lenses?
The primary benefit of pure fluorite crystal is the near-total elimination of chromatic aberration, or false color fringing. This results in exceptionally high-contrast and sharp images, with edge to edge sharpness, as Kowa describes it. The large 82mm aperture also provides excellent light-gathering ability for bright views, even in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk.
Which optional accessories does Kowa list for the High Lander PROMINAR?
The manual lists a center mount / wooden tripod, 50x eyepieces (TE-9WH), 21x eyepieces (TE-21WH) and an aluminum case (BL8J-AC on kowaoptics.com). All are sold separately.
How does the optional 21x eyepiece change the view from the standard 32x?
The optional 21x eyepiece (TE-21WH) provides a wider real field of view (3.0° vs 2.2°), a larger exit pupil (3.9mm vs 2.6mm) and a higher relative brightness (15.2 vs 6.8), per the High Lander manual. Its eye relief is 17.0mm against 20.0mm for the 32x. The wider field makes scanning easier, while the standard 32x shows more detail on distant subjects.
What is the minimum focusing distance of the High Lander PROMINAR?
The minimum focus distance is 20 meters (65.6 feet). Focus runs from 20 m to infinity, so it is meant for distant subjects. The manual notes that with the 50x eyepieces some people may have difficulty seeing one image at the minimum focusing distance.
Is the Kowa High Lander PROMINAR waterproof?
Kowa describes the High Lander PROMINAR as a completely waterproof design filled with dry nitrogen gas to prevent fogging. Kowa gives no waterproof depth or rating.
How do I clean the large 82mm objective lenses on the High Lander?
First, use a blower to remove any loose dust or grit. Then, apply a dedicated lens cleaning fluid to a fresh piece of lens tissue or a clean microfiber cloth. Clean the lens with a gentle, circular motion, starting from the center and working your way outwards. Clean the body with a soft cloth moistened with warm water and mild detergent, never with solvents.
Which eyepieces can I use with the High Lander PROMINAR?
Kowa lists only the included 32x eyepieces and the optional Kowa TE-21WH (21x) and TE-9WH (50x) eyepieces for the High Lander PROMINAR. The eyepieces push into the focus rings and lock into place.
What does the carry handle on the Kowa High Lander PROMINAR do?
The integrated handle serves two purposes. Its primary function is to make it easier and safer to transport the 14 lb binocular. Secondly, it incorporates a sightline, which you can use as a simple aiming device to quickly point the binoculars at a distant target before looking through the eyepieces.
