How to choose an Excursion binocular
Field of view
The 8x42 shows 393 ft at 1,000 yards (131 m at 1,000 m), against 330 ft (110 m) for the 10x42. That wider view makes a bird in flight easier to find and follow, and a tree line quicker to scan. The 10x42 magnifies a quarter more, which pays when the subject is far off and holding still: a hawk on a snag, a deer at the edge of a field, a ridgeline.
Dawn and dusk
The 8x42 has a 5.25 mm exit pupil and the 10x42 a 4.2 mm one, so at the same 42mm objective the 8x42 gives the brighter view early and late in the day, when wildlife moves most.
With glasses
The 8x42 has 17 mm of eye relief, enough to see the full field with glasses on, and the 10x42 has 15 mm. Both have twist-up eyecups, down for glasses and up without, and a diopter adjustment for eyes that differ.
Close focus and handling
Both focus down to 2 m, close enough for a bird at the feeder or a butterfly on the trail without backing away. The open-bridge frame leaves room for the fingers, for a secure one-handed grip on a long walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Excursion binoculars waterproof?
Yes. Both are waterproof and nitrogen fog-proof, so the optics stay clear in rain, humidity and quick changes of temperature.
What comes in the box?
A storage case, a neck strap and lens covers.
Are they good for stargazing?
The 10x42 picks out more of a star field than the 8x42. For dedicated stargazing, our astronomy binoculars have 70mm to 150mm objectives.
For the trade-off in more depth, read 8x42 vs 10x42 Binoculars: Which is Right for You?, and for all of National Geographic, browse National Geographic.