Kowa - 10x32 BD II XD Wide-Angle Binoculars

A Guide to Marine Binoculars

The Kowa 10x32 BD II XD Wide-Angle Binoculars provide the performance that avid birders, hunters, and world travelers demand without the bulk of full-sized models.

To improve image quality and offset the light-gathering limitations of the smaller objectives, Kowa employs complementary technologies that include the use of PROMINAR extra-low dispersion glass, anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics, and highly reflective C3 and phase-correction prism coatings that work together to produce crisp, clear, and bright high-contrast images with accurate color rendition across the entire spectrum. Added to this performance is an exceptional short close-focus distance, an ultrawide angle of view, and a comfortable eye relief, which produce an immersive observational experience for any user.

Designed for extensive outdoor use, the lightweight magnesium alloy chassis is wrapped in a protective rubber armor with a slip-resistant textured grip to provide secure handling in cold and wet conditions. To ensure a compact and highly packable form factor, Kowa utilizes Schmidt-Pechan prisms that allow for slimmer optical tubes but deliver the performance of conventional roof prisms. The optical tubes are nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme temperature or humidity changes.

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Optical Performance

High 10x magnification enables detailed observations of distant subjects like animals, athletes, and architectural details

32mm objective lenses deliver the light-gathering capability and performance of a full-size model with the carrying and handling convenience of a compact

Schmidt-Pechan prism design corrects the view while allowing for thinner optical tubes versus the more common Abbe-Koenig design

PROMINAR XD extra-low dispersion glass reduces chromatic aberration, which causes halos and fringing, for improved color rendition and contrast

Anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics improve light transmission, color rendition, clarity, and contrast

Phase-correcting prism coatings eliminate internal light diffraction to improve clarity and contrast

C3 prism coatings improve internal light transmission to higher than 99% across the entire visible spectrum to improve color rendition, clarity, and contrast

Exceptionally short close focus distance of just over 4 feet enables users to make detailed observations of small subjects like bugs and insects or flora and fauna

Wide 67° apparent angle of view

Spacious 351' field of view at 1000 yards

Use and Handling

Closed-bridge configuration provides a solid and stable platform for the internal focusing mechanism

Textured center focusing wheel is easy to manipulate, even in cold and wet conditions or when wearing gloves

Right-eye dioptric correction allows the user to fine-tune the focusing to their individual eyesight—even if they wear corrective lenses

Integrated 1/4"-20 threaded adapter socket on front of bridge hinge allows the optic to be tripod mounted with an optional adapter

Twist-up multi-position rubber eyecups for comfortable use and correct eye relief, with or without eyewear

Generous 15mm eye relief

3.2mm exit pupil

Construction Details

Prism design allows for thinner optical tubes, contributing to the overall compact form factor and providing a more comfortable feel in the hand

Lightweight and durable magnesium alloy chassis reduces weight without sacrificing strength and stability

Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme temperature changes or environmental conditions

Protective rubber armor provides a slip-resistant grip

Oil-resistant KR exterior lens coatings make it easy for dirt, sap, and oil to be cleaned off without smudges or residue

Light 18.5-ounce weight