Bushnell Natureview 8 x 40 Birder Combo Review

 

These are great birdwatching binoculars especially for the beginner at this price point. Bird watchers usually want a magnification of 7, 8 or 10 and at 8 x 40 these fit into that criteria very well and offer you a good range of view so you don't miss those fast moving birds. The 8 magnification is also especially helpful in low light conditions such as owl watching, looking for birds in dense forests or birdwatching at dusk & dawn. Binoculars at this magnification gather in more light then something up in the 10+ range. Users also report these binoculars are quick and easy to focus if something should catch your eye unexpectedly.

The Bad

The objective lens covers are pretty dire and often don't stay on. It has been said that if you write to Bushnell they will send you replacements that seem to work better

The combo includes the 8 x 42mm porro birding binoculars, a carrying case and deluxe strap. a birdwatching CD and a field log kit.

Bushnell Natureview 8 x 40 Birder Combo

Good Size And Compromise On Features For Price

These are primarily designed for birdwatching and wildlife observation. 8x42 binoculars are the most popular size purchased for birdwatching binoculars for a number of reason. This size provides a good compromise between their size, brightness and magnification and field of view. This combination is very important when you are trying to quickly spotting those fast moving birds in the field. One very important feature is that they are fully waterproof as the optics are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the binoculars and the barrels are filled with nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging. You very, very important feature for the active birdwatcher or nature lover.

Compact & Durable

The Bushnell Natureview 8x40 uses a Roof Prism design which leads to durability and keeping them as compact as possible.

Waterproof

This is a great feature for anyone who spends a lot of time in the field.

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Features and Specifications:

Power: 8x40
Field of View: 330 ft. at 1000 yds.
Exit Pupil: 5 mm
Eye Relief: 12 mm
Dimensions: 7.0 x 2.4 x 6.5 in.
Close Focus: 14 ft.
Weight: 18.27 oz.
Weatherproofing: N/A
Prism Material: BaK-4
Coatings: Fully Multi-coated
Armoring: Rubber
Eye Cups: Rubber Fold-down
Design Type: 7 Porro Prisms with multi-coated optics

Textured center-focus wheel for easy, precise adjustments
Rugged, non-slip rubber armor absorbs shock as well as a waterproof and fogproof construction
Fold-down eyecups
Right Eye Diopter: Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes. Located by the right eyepiece.
Tripod Adaptable: Can be mounted using standard 1/4-inch threading. Adapter sold separately

Seek Cheap Store Customer Score:4.5 Stars Rating

There are 10+ reviews on Seek Cheap Store

"My wife is absolutely thrilled with these. She uses them mainly for bird watching. 8 x 40 works nicely for viewing objects approximately 50 feet away. Not too powerfull although it also does a nice job with objects 100 yards away too. Construction seems strudy as well. Would definately recommend."

"I bought these binoculars for my daughter, a birdwatcher, for Christmas. She loves them. They are not as heavy as the ones we have had for years, and are much better quality than the lightweight useless ones we also possess. A good investment!"

"For the price you won't find a finer binoculars for bird viewing. I was very pleased with their range. Can get close up views with birds within a few feet or in distance."

Eagle Optics Customer Score: 4 Star Rating

1 user review on Eagle Optics

"I first purchased your binoculars at a Migration Celebration at Brazosport, Tx. about 15 years ago. You had a booth set up with a wide variety of products which you loaned to us to go outside and try out. Your reps were very helpful with info and demos. I have been very happy with my purchase and have pointed them at birds from Alaska to Costa Rica, Panama Canal, and Europe with clear resolution and happy birding. Later I purchased a telescope, window mount, and tripod with equal good luck. The rubber portions of my binos are breaking after so many years in the sun and I'm sorry you don't have them anymore. The free ones look quite good and I could manage with them nicely. "

Amazon Customer Score: 4.5 Star Rating

There are 10+ customer reviews on Amazon

"Heavier than I thought. I was expecting a smaller and lighter unit. Okay for backyard use, but was heavy and awkward to use sitting in a canoe and trying to locate birds while moving. I didn't have time to ship these back and switch out before my trip. Price is reasonable."

"These are perfect for looking at anything 35 feet or more from you. They area easy to focus and adjust as needed. It also came with a handy bag to carry around. The bird CD Rom isn't great, but that's what the internet is for in searching for the information on that animal you're looking at. Definitely worth the price."

"As others have stated, these binoculars are great when they're new. But after 3 years, the lenses have worked their way totally out of alignment."

"These are a great beginner binoculars for the new birder who can't justify spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a high-powered pair. My family has had various types of Bushnell binoculars for generations and we've never been disappointed with a single pair. This pair is comfortable to hold and not very heavy so they're great to take on a long hike or overnight trek."

Bushnell Natureview 8 x 40 Birder Combo

Conclusion

For the price it will be difficult to find a finer binocular for bird viewing for the beginning bird watcher.

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