Small in size but packing a big punch, Swarovski’s newly launched NL Pure 32 is no lightweight in optical performance, says Mike Alibone.
LESS than a year has passed since Swarovski ‘wowed’ the optics world with the launch of its new NL Pure range, at that time comprising three 42 mm models. So, hot on the heels of these new binoculars come two more from the same stable, one step down in size but no less impressive. The 32 mm models made their debut in May and look set to strongly appeal to anyone wishing to shed weight of the optical kind. At 640 g, their mass is little more than three quarters that of their 42 mm counterparts, as well as being physically smaller, occupying almost 83% of the latter’s standard dimensional volume.
How, then, does this affect their performance in comparison to that of the larger models? To find out, I acquired a 10x32 to use during May, at the same time running some tests against the 10x42. The 32 mm models retain exactly the same optical system as that of the 42 mm, so the principal difference relates only to size which, in itself, relates purely to the barrels. The operating elements of the single bridge connection are the same size. The central, broadly milled focusing wheel measures little more than one finger’s width; it is perfectly positioned, allowing your focusing finger to be kept relaxed
and straight during use.
Exactly as in the larger model, almost two, very smooth, clockwise rotations take the in-focus distance from 2 m to infinity and, similarly, it took
approximately one quarter of a turn to focus on subjects between 10 m and ‘long distance’.
Despite this model’s smaller size, the ocular lenses are the same size as the larger model, while the peripheral lens chassis is 1 mm narrower. The complete eyecup twists out to click-stop in six different positions above the fully retracted base setting. I was pleased I could still see the full field of view with the eyecups fully extended to position six. At this point, too, the image retained edge-to-edge sharpness, with almost no curvature of field. Although the rubber rim on the eyecups has a lightly bevelled edge, and is relatively soft, I would make the same comment as I did when reviewing the 8x42 NL Pure: a softer, deeper, more rounded rubber covering in this area would further increase comfortability.
The field of view, at 132 m at 1,000 m, is only 1 m less than that of the larger 10x42. It’s worth mentioning that for anyone considering purchasing the 8x32 – 8x being the ‘go to’ magnification for most birders – the field of view for that model is 150 m at 1,000 m. But for that extra reach in magnification, 132 m is still excellent and well worth the compromise in my opinion.
The contoured barrel shape makes for easy holding and balance, while the same bridgebased single-eye focusing mechanism allows simple fingertip-to-spur adjustment
against a scale of settings.
This binocular delivers everything it sets out to achieve alongside the wide field of view. A pin-sharp image with superb levels of contrast and brightness and the ‘3D’ effect, which is particularly evident when birding in woodland. In line with the larger models, the level of chromatic aberration is equally low.
In direct comparison with its 42 mm counterpart, I was able to detect a slight difference in image brightness as dusk approached, with the smaller binocular being marginally less bright.
The articulated rainguard forms a robust accessory to protect the oculars. It is designed to fit quite snugly, but my tip for anyone buying this binocular would be to purchase the fractionally larger rainguard designed to fit the 42 mm model as, fitting slightly more loosely, it’s much quicker to slip off and on again when using during adverse weather conditions.
Integrated clip-in objective covers, a comfortably padded lanyard, a soft, padded carry case made of 100% recycled polyester, along with a soap and brush kit for cleaning the housing, are all supplied as standard components of the package. An optional forehead rest is designed to increase comfort and steady viewing during prolonged use.
In addition to the traditional green body covering, the NL
Pure 32 is also available in
‘burnt orange’ which has been designed to attract a different audience and to appeal to the travel market. It is said to have gone down well with a number of birders, too, so we may yet see a lot more orange out in the field.
For anyone not hell-bent on squeezing every last lumen out of dawn and dusk birding, this binocular is a superb performer and every bit as good as the larger – and more expensive – 42-mm models, the 8x42 of which was reviewed in Birdwatch 339: 46-47. ■