SWAROVSKI'S SUPERB 10X25 CL POCKET BINOCULARS
The Austrian manufacturer Swarovski certainly needs no introduction when it comes to top-quality optical products, and they enjoy a well-deserved reputation for quality the world over. One of Swarovski’s mainstays is binoculars and I recently had the opportunity to test the 10x25 CL Pocket binoculars on a hunting trip to the Northern Cape.
As the name implies, the 10x25 CL Pocket are a compact pair of binoculars aimed at that segment of the market that doesn’t require or want a fullsized pair of binoculars. Predict
ably, the 10x25 CL binoculars fit neatly in the pocket of a shirt, and in my opinion, they are the ideal size for hunting binoculars as they are lightweight and therefore easy to carry for a whole day’s trek through the bush.
On the technical side, these binoculars weigh in at a diminutive 350 gr and even with the relatively modest 25 mm objective lenses, offer a field of view of 98 m at a kilometre. The objective lenses fold in, as is the case with similar binoculars by other makers, for storage or carry purposes.
As someone who wears eyeglasses, the fact that they are fitted with individually adjustable, fold-in eyecups is a great help, which also makes the use of the binoculars whilst wearing eyeglasses comfortable and easy.
Focus is adjustable by means of the focus wheel situated between the objective lenses. Dioptric compensation for those who suffer from a lack of visual acuity is adjustable as well by means of a small wheel situated at the bottom of the frame of the binoculars.
During the abovementioned hunting trip, I carried the 10x25 CL Pocket for three days in September 2020 in hot, dry and dusty conditions whilst hunting zebra and hartebeest in the Northern Cape. They fitted seamlessly in the chest pocket of my hunting shirts, were a pleasure to carry and right where I wanted them when needed.
The area where I hunted was open country, so I was forced to spend long hours glassing for game before planning every stalk. The binoculars were a joy to use and, compared to my previous pair of hunting binoculars, simply streets ahead in terms of optical quality. These binoculars came through for me with flying colours and I can confidently state that they are one of the finest pairs of hunting binoculars I have ever used.
The 10x25 CL Pocket are supplied with a carrying strap, carry bag and rain cover, and currently retail for approximately R16 900. It is not inexpensive, but for that money you are getting a worldclass product backed up by a comprehensive ten-year warranty. For those on the lookout for a top-quality pair of compact binoculars, we highly recommend the Swarovski 10x25 CL Pocket. * The local agent for Swarovski products is Whylo Distributors, based in Durban. For trade enquiries, phone them at 031584-8088 or contact them via the web at www.whylo.co.za