ZEISS 8×32 Terra ED Binoculars | 2017 Edition, Gray

The gray 2017 edition of ZEISS Optics’ 8×32 Terra ED Binoculars feature a redesigned ergonomic chassis that makes holding them more comfortable, especially during long glassing sessions. Optically, they retain the exceptional elements that are the hallmarks of the Terra ED, including compact Schmidt-Pechan roof prisms, SCHOTT extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, and proprietary multicoatings. These complementary technologies and elements work together to produce an immersive observational experience that presents clear and bright views despite the relatively small objectives, with accurate color representation and virtually zero distortion across the entire wide field of view.

The comfortable ergonomic chassis is made of a fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate to help reduce weight without sacrificing strength and while adding impact and temperature resistance. Being resistant to temperature changes not only ensures that the housing will remain a constant temperature even in cold and wet conditions, but ensures it will not experience the expansion and contraction common in metal chassis that can cause the optical elements to move out of alignment over time and hinder the binoculars’ ability to achieve sharp focus. The chassis is covered in a gray rubber armor that helps to protect it from drops and impacts and provides a slip-resistant grip.

Optical Performance

• 8x magnification
• 32mm objective lenses
• Roof prism optical path
• The compact Schmidt-Pechan prism design corrects the view while allowing for thinner optical tubes versus the more common Abbe-Koenig design
• SCHOTT ED glass elements reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations to produce views with true color rendition without halos, diffraction, or distortion across the entire field of view
• ZEISS proprietary hydrophobic multicoated optics shed dust, dirt, and oils while improving light transmission, color rendition, sharpness, and contrast
• Short 5.25-foot close-focus distance
• Wide 61 apparent angle of view
• 442-foot field of view at 1000 yards

Use and Handling

• Closed-bridge configuration
• Large fast-focus center wheel
• 3 right-eye dioptric correction
• 56-74mm interpupillary adjustment range
• Twist-up click-stop rubber eyecups for comfortable use with or without eyewear
• Long 16.5mm eye relief
• Comfortable 4mm exit pupil

Construction Details

• Impact-, corrosion-, and temperature-resistant fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate housing
• Temperature resistance prevents expansion and contraction in extreme temperature changes, which prevents optical components from moving out of alignment
• Protective gray rubber armor
• Nitrogen filled for waterproof and fogproof performance
• Submersible to 100 mbar of pressure, or approximately 3′ (1m)
• Operating temperature: 5 to 140F (-15 to 60C)
• Weight: 18 oz