 Low Light Supremacy
Leica Ultravid HD were judged the winner in four independent European trade magazines this year. They have also won Field & Streams 'Best of the Best' in the past.
The optical performance of the new Leica Ultravid HD high-end binoculars is significantly increased in comparison to previous models. This increased performance is a result of the redesign of the optical system towards increased definition, (hence the name HD for High Definition) which is implemented in the new Leica Ultravid models in 8 x 32 HD through to the Leica Ultravid 12 x 50 HD.
The Leica Ultravid HD binoculars feature a new coating over a new type of fluorite glass which is used on certain lens elements within the binoculars. This gives the Ultravid's the ability to provide a sharp, brilliant picture, with no colour fringing and with excellent contrast right to the edge of the image.
Another new feature is the Leica AquaDura coating technology which is used on the external
glass surfaces of the Ultravid HD binoculars. This allows water droplets on the lenses to simply drip cleanly away, ensuring improved vision even when it is raining. The special
coating also allows the lenses to be cleaned much more easily and quickly.
Further new features of the Leica Ultravid HD binoculars include an improved prism coating
technology, a choice of new glass materials with even greater light transmission and the further improved coating on all lens surfaces to ensure a 3% increase in overall light transmission. The result is a brighter image in any viewing situation, even when the light is poor, for example; at twilight where it is especially critical and therefore noticeable.
By taking comprehensive measures to increase optical performance, it has also been possible to reduce the stray light on Leica Ultravid HD models to provide a high-resolution, unrestricted and clear image, even when the sun is low and stray light enters the optical path in the binocular causing a decrease in overall contrast and definition.
The Leica Ultravid HD models are available in different objective lens diameters and magnification sizes. The binoculars come in the 32mm objective in either an 8 x or 10 x magnification, a 42mm objective with 7 x, 8 x and 10 x magnification, and as a 50mm objective in either 8 x, 10 x and 12 x magnification, with all models featuring Leica black rubber armoring.
Despite many new technical improvements, the design of the new Leica Ultravid HD binoculars continues to be user-friendly. The operatingelements are adjusted to the user's requirements and for frequent use even in extreme viewing conditions so that the binoculars can be comfortably used over a long period without causing tiredness or eye strain. The central focusing mechanism unit is set at an easy-toreach position and is simple to operate for adjusting your focus and the diopters. Users also have the ability to separate the central focusing mechanism and adjust the diopter for both the left and right eye separately. The rotating sliding sleeve of the eye cups have two separate locked positions and the soft cushioned rubber provides optimum eye positioning even for people who wear eyeglasses. The eye cups can be removed for easy cleaning.
The Leica Ultravid HD housing is provided with shock-absorbent rubber armoring to protect the binoculars from being damaged and is shock proof rated to around 100g's of force. This is topped off by a fully waterproof setting, submersible to 16ft for two hours. The slip-proof armoring ensures safe handling and in conjunction with the ergonomic shape, ensures the binoculars can be gripped safely even in wet weather and while wearing gloves.
It is the low light abilities that set the new HD apart from pervious models. The ability to glass deer until the last few minutes of light or at first light is what hunters pay for when using these types of optics. Upon using the New Leica HD Ultravids in a 10 x 42 configuration, we were locating deer in no time. The ease of focusing and the definition and contrast was very impressive. All of these features are packed into an optic with a reasonable size and their lightweight makes for one very easy to hold binocular. The 10 x 42 came in at 750grams and the quality finish on the eyepiece cover and protective front lens covers is what we've come to expect from Leica Optics. The Ultravid HD binoculars also come with a Neoprene contoured carrying strap and Cor-dura protective carrying case.
'Reading and writing a review is one thing but actually holding and testing a pair of binoculars in the field whilst hunting is what really counts.The Leica range of sport optics including the Ultravid HD range of Binoculars are distributed in Australia by Outdoor Sporting Agencies and are available at leading gun shops. To find your local stockist or to find out more on the extended range of Leica optics, contact them on (03) 9741 1174 or visit them online at www.osaaustralia.com.au
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