What makes the PROMINAR XD optics in the Kowa Genesis 8x22 special?
PROMINAR is the name Kowa gives to its most advanced and highest quality optical products. The XD objective lenses in the Genesis 8x22 are high resolution ED glass containing large amounts of fluorite crystal (not the Pure Fluorite Crystal lens used in Kowa's PROMINAR spotting scopes). Kowa says they give pin sharp images with natural color, high contrast and fine detail.
Can I use the Genesis 8x22 with eyeglasses?
Kowa's Genesis 22 manual says the multi-step twist-up eyecups provide proper eye relief for use with or without eyeglasses: if you wear glasses, twist the eyecups down until they sit flush with the eyepiece lens. kowaoptics.com lists 15.0 mm eye relief for the 8x22.
What is the main advantage of the Kowa Genesis 8x22 compared to the 10x22 model?
The primary advantage of the Genesis 8x22 is its wider field of view (393 ft at 1,000 yds vs. 315 ft on the 10x22). This makes it easier to find and track moving subjects like birds. The lower magnification also gives a steadier, easier-to-hold image.
Can I use the Kowa Genesis 8x22 for watching birds at a close distance?
Yes. The Genesis 8x22 suits close-range observation. It features a minimum focusing distance of just 4.9 feet, giving magnified views of birds at a feeder, insects on a flower, or other nearby wildlife.
How durable is the Kowa Genesis 8x22 for hiking and travel?
Its body is made from a lightweight yet strong magnesium alloy, protected by tough rubber armor. It is also fully waterproof and dry nitrogen filled to prevent fogging. Kowa's manual advises not to drop it, not to use it in water or wash it under running water, and not to leave it in a car or near heat.
How does the Kowa Genesis 8x22 perform in low light, such as at dawn or dusk?
Kowa says the Genesis prism system gives a wide field of view and edge to edge sharpness with minimal loss of light, even in low light conditions, and that its lens coatings enhance light transmission. Kowa gives no low-light figures for the 8x22, and a 22mm objective gathers less light than a larger one.
How do I set the interpupillary distance on the Genesis 8x22?
Kowa's manual says to look at an object through the binocular and move the two barrels closer together or farther apart until the two circular images become one. The centers of the eyepiece lenses are then the same distance apart as your pupils.
What is a locking diopter, and why is it useful on the Genesis 8x22?
The diopter ring on the right barrel adjusts for the difference in visual acuity between your eyes. Kowa lists a locking diopter ring for the Genesis 22, so the setting is held once adjusted. After that, you focus with the focus knob while viewing through both barrels.
How do I clean the KR-coated lenses on my Genesis 8x22?
Kowa says the KR coating repels dirt and fluid. The manual says to remove dust from the lens with a blower, a can of air or a soft oil-free brush, then lightly wipe the lens with a lens cloth, gauze or cleaning paper dampened with a small amount of lens cleaner. Store the binocular in a well-ventilated dry place; for long storage, use an airtight container with desiccant.
What does the Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty cover for the Genesis 8x22?
The Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty covers the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the product, provided it was purchased from an authorized North American retailer. It does not cover damage from misuse, unauthorized repair, or normal wear and tear. If defects are found, Kowa will, at its discretion, repair or replace the product free of charge. Kowa requests product registration within 30 days of purchase.
