Kite Optics APC Stabilized 12x42 ED Binoculars

The Kite Optics APC Stabilized 12x42 ED puts ED glass, Kite's KDGS-2 gimbal and KT 3.0 software in an 849 g, 42 mm binocular that runs on AAA cells, rechargeable or standard. Its gimbal corrects within 3°, against the ±0.8° Canon publishes for its 10x42 L IS WP and 12x36 IS III. At 12x it has the largest exit pupil of the three APC 42 ED models, 3.5 mm, for the brightest image in the line.

Key Features

• 88% light transmission. The highest of the three APC 42 ED models (85% for the 16x and 83% for the 20x).
• Close focus at 2.9 m (9.5 ft). Near enough for a dragonfly on a reed or a bird at the feeder.
• ED optical system. Extra-low dispersion glass in the 42 mm optics controls color fringing on high-contrast edges, so a dark bird against bright sky keeps its true outline.
• KDGS-2 gimbal, KT 3.0 software and SMARTFLOW. Kite's second-generation gimbal is driven by the KT 3.0 processor and software. Its SMARTFLOW algorithm adapts in real time, absorbing wind, hand movement and panning, then holds the image steady once you stop on a subject. The correction angle is 3°.
• Hybrid AAA power with a spare set on board. Two AAA cells run the binocular and a second pair waits in the internal spare compartment. Four rechargeable Ansmann Li-ion AAA cells come in the box, and standard alkaline or lithium AAAs work as well. Lithium AAAs are rated at 60 hours a set (120 hours with the stored spares), alkaline at 33 hours and the supplied Li-ion cells at 20 hours, and Kite recommends lithium cells for the longest run time and the lowest risk of leakage.
• Automatic power control. Let the binocular hang on its strap and the stabilization sleeps; raise it to your eyes and it wakes, with no button to press. A 90-minute timer switches it off completely, and the power light flashes when the batteries run low.
• Works without power. With the switch at off, the gimbal locks and the APC 42 ED works as a conventional binocular.
• Weatherproof. IPX7 waterproof and gas-filled, with a protective repellent coating.
• Tripod socket. A 1/4-inch socket for long sessions on a tripod.
• Twist-up eyecups. Leave them down with glasses on, twist them up without.
• Made in Japan. Kite develops its APC binoculars in Belgium and builds every one in Japan.

Ideal For

• Birders who want ED glass and stabilization at 12x, with the brightest image of the three APC 42 ED models.
• Travelers and hikers who want a stabilized ED binocular that runs on AAA cells, with rechargeables in the box and a spare pair inside.
• Boaters and sea watchers, where stabilization steadies the view from a moving deck and the IPX7 rating keeps spray out.
• Anyone choosing a power or a model. The 16x42 ED and 20x42 ED share this body. The APC 12x42 is lighter at 720 g and runs on AA cells; the ED version adds ED glass, the KDGS-2 gimbal with a 3° correction angle (2° on the APC 42) and a tripod socket.

Accessories & Compatibility

• Silicone jackets. Kite's APC 42 ED jackets in full black and sage green protect the body from scratches, impacts and wear and add grip.
• Batteries. Four Ansmann Li-ion rechargeable AAA cells are included. Kite does not support other rechargeable cells, which may void the warranty; standard alkaline or lithium AAAs are fine.
• Tripod. The 1/4-inch socket takes a standard tripod adapter.