Introduction:
Intuitive ergonomics and controls combined with a brilliant flawless picture, the Zeiss Victory SF is a great new direction for Zeiss and a pleasure to use.
Zeiss Victory SF 8x42mm
Technical Data:
Magnification: 8X
Effective Lens Deameter: 42 mm
Exit Pupil Diameter: 5.3 mm
Twilight Factors: 18.3
Field of View at 1000 yd: 444 ft
Subjective Viewing Angle: 8 °
Close Focus in Ft: 5 ft
Diopter Adjustment Range: +4 | 4 dpt
Pupil Distance: 54-76 mm
Eye Relief: 18 mm
Lens Type: FL/HT
Prism System: Schmidt-Pechan
Water Resestance: 400 mbar
LotuTec®: yes
Nitrogen Filing
Functional Remperature in °F: -22 | +145 °F
Length: 6.8 in
Width: 4.9 in
Weight: 27.5 oz
Mechanics and Design:
The Zeiss Victory SF binoculars are a roof prism open bridge design. This is Zeiss’s first open bridge binocular. The Victory SF’s new Triple-Link Bridge design and magnesium housing provide durable lightweight construction and a rubber armor increases grip and absorbs impacts. The natural open bridge design combined with the anti-slip texture and balancing makes the Victory SF’s a pleasure to handle and even seem lighter than binoculars of the same weight. Unlike many binoculars the SF’s weight is towards the rear. To a comparable binocular weighing 1/10th lb more, the SF’s, to me, feel significantly lighter. My hand naturally grips these binoculars and my index finger rests comfortably on the focus wheel. The focus wheel is quick, natural and intuitive, perfect for birding, fast-moving objects, or multiple targets. Its function is the smoothest and most consistent I have put my hands on. The eyecups are easily adjustable and soft and flexible for those preferring a lighter touch. The Zeiss Victory SF’s feature quality and comfort, resulting in an easy and enjoyable viewing experience.
Optics:
Combining SCHOTT fluoride glass, a Schmidt-Pechan prism system, proprietary coatings, seven-lens eyepiece and Zeiss field flattener technology, the Victory SF’s bring you an edge to edge brilliant, crisp, and clear image with no chromatic aberration. Boasting 92% overall light transmission, these Zeiss binoculars perform in all light conditions, accentuating brilliant colors and outlining every detail in the wide field of view. With a crystal clear close focus of 5 ft, the Victory SF’s are an ideal binocular for birding or insect viewing up close.
Packaging and Accessories:
The elaborate packaging is what you have come to expect from Zeiss – great presentation. It comes with a hard shell type cordura covered case with a padded shoulder strap and attachments that could be used with the shoulder or neck strap and a very comfortable and easily adjustable wide padded neck strap.
Pros:
Great glass, intuitive ergonomics, wide field of view.
Cons:
I feel the rubber armor could be a little tackier when wet.
The Zeiss Victory SF only comes in grey and I prefer a darker color. (Although in many advertised pictures of the SF’s they seem black or dark grey)
Conclusion:
The Zeiss Victory SF’s are a pleasure to use. Zeiss users who get their hands on these will be blown away and for fans of other brands, this is a quality product you should consider. Once you use them, you will recognize them as some of the best binoculars on the market. I truly believe these are a game changer for Zeiss and real competition for other high end companies. I look forward to using them more.
