Kowa BD III 8x32 XD Binocular

The XD (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses are the primary optical feature of the Kowa BD III 8x32. Kowa crafts them from fluorite-rich ED glass to dramatically reduce chromatic aberration (color fringing). This results in a sharper, higher-contrast image with true-to-life colors, allowing you to see finer details, especially on high-contrast subjects like a bird against a bright sky.

The ultra-wide 8.8° field of view is a significant advantage for birdwatching. It makes it much easier to initially locate a bird within the binocular's view, especially small, fast-moving ones like warblers. Once located, the wide view also makes it easier to track the bird as it flies or moves through foliage without losing it from sight, providing a more immersive and effective observation experience.

The Kowa BD III 8x32 has 16.5mm of eye relief and twist-up eyecups. Kowa's manual says to use the twist-up eyecups retracted if you wear glasses and extended if you do not; adjusting them correctly gives you the full field of view and the best optical performance.

The exceptionally close minimum focus distance of 1.3 meters (4.2 feet) allows you to use the Kowa BD III 8x32 for detailed, magnified views of nearby subjects. This suits observing the intricate patterns on butterflies, the fine details of dragonflies, or the structure of wildflowers in stunning clarity, turning your binocular into a tool for exploring more than just distant objects.

To adjust the diopter for your specific eyesight, follow these steps:

1. Look through the binoculars at a distant object.
2. Close your right eye and use the main center focus wheel to get a perfectly sharp image for your left eye.
3. Now, close your left eye and open your right. Without touching the main focus wheel, turn the diopter adjustment ring on the right eyepiece until the image is perfectly sharp for your right eye.
4. Your binoculars are now set for your vision. You will only need to use the center focus wheel from now on.

Kowa specifies the BD III 8x32 as waterproof and fogproof; its magnesium body, rubber armor and KR lens coating work together to shield the optics from the elements. If it gets wet from rain, Kowa's manual says to wipe it dry as soon as possible.

The Kowa BD III 8x32 offers a wider field of view, a brighter image in low light thanks to its larger exit pupil, and is easier to hold steady. The 10x32 provides more magnification for identifying details at a distance, at the cost of a narrower, dimmer and less steady view.

The KR coating is Kowa's exclusive lens coating that protects the lenses from dirt and residue: it actively repels water, dust and dirt from the lens surfaces. This helps you maintain a clearer view in wet or dirty conditions and makes cleanup fast and effortless.

Following Kowa's manual, first remove dust and dirt from the lens surface with a blower or by gently wiping with a soft, oil-free cloth. Then wipe lightly with an eyeglass cleaning cloth, gauze or lens cleaning paper moistened with a small amount of lens cleaner. Do not use organic solvents such as acetone, benzene or paint thinner.

The Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the product to the original owner, when purchased from an authorized North American retailer. Kowa will repair or replace the product at its discretion. The warranty does not cover damage from unauthorized repair, alteration, misuse or abuse, or normal wear and tear. Lens caps, cases and straps are covered for their lifetime but not for accidental loss. Kowa requests product registration within 30 days of purchase.

Yes. Kowa's manual lists a tripod mounting socket among the binocular's parts. To attach it to a tripod head you need a binocular tripod adapter (not included).