[42 mm] One of the best values in 8x42 roof prism binoculars, with optics that is far above the incredibly modest price. Very easy to handle, but the eye relief twist mechanism is mushy, and a little difficult to precisely set at a given position. I would have preferred a geared mechanism that provided like 3 or 4 crisp, clickable positions. But that's a nit - for the price, this is just amazing value. The eye relief is big enough that it should work for a lot of eyeglass wearers, but this is always a question of individual physiology. So I would highly recommend testing it to see how well it works for you ergonomically.

[8x] I recently bought my second pair of Carson 8x42 binoculars. These are well made, have excellent clarity with their ED glass and fit my hands comfortably. The field of view is comparable to the Nikon 5's but not as good as more expensive models from Nikon or the premium brands like Swarovski that cost considerably more (2X for Nikon 7's, 8X for Swarovski) than these. However, I don't know of any brands that offer wide field of views at this price point, so that is why I call these excellent entry level binoculars. I use these for birding and for now, these are fit my needs well. The only little annoyance with these is the strap tends to work its way loose from the binoculars on occasion and I'd like to see a new design or strap material, but other than that, I give these a big thumbs up.

[42 mm] I did a lot of research before deciding to buy the SD 8X42. This is basically the older DCF CS version, and that got many good reviews. B&H still has the page for the DCF CS. The SD was upgraded with new coatings.

The first thing I tried is twisting up the eye-cups. There are subtle 4-stop clicks, contrary to other reviews out there that said the clicks are mushy. I don't wear glasses so I use the 1st stop out.

The 7.5 FOV is clear, very sharp, and minimal chromatic aberration (I couldn't really notice it in normal use, but if I really stress-test it in bright contrast conditions, there will be some aberrations. But then again, who uses binoculars to specifically look for aberrations).

The focus wheel is stiff so I need to use my 2 index fingers from both hands. The diopter dial is very stiff & clicks into place, and it would be tough to accidentally move it.

The lens covers are cheap. I only advise to use it for storage. The strap is bad. I advise using the Peak Design leash with it. It works perfectly!

As for casual stargazing, these binoculars lit up the night sky. Well, my backyard in Seattle has light pollution, but I could still see faint stars beyond it. I barely noticed any chromatic aberration on the moon.

I am very happy with my purchase. I had to question if I wanted to spend hundreds more for ED fancier optics for incremental improvements. I'm also a hobbyist photographer. I've noticed binoculars have gone the way of camera marketing. I love to think this was made in the same Pentax factory that makes Pentax cameras in the Philippines :)

[42 mm] Got this for my 6 year old grandson. Wanted something durable, colorful, inexpensive yet functional and this fit the bill.

[42 mm] These binoculars are my first pair that I have ever owned, and I am very happy. Clear views and easy use of the dials. They feel good in the hand and aren't bulky. I would definitely buy these again.

[8x] So bright, crisp and clear! Adjust easily, and even close up the magnification is wonderful. A bit heavier than my last binocs, but the clarity makes it totally worth it.

[9.8' / 3 m] I got these for birding and they are light and image is super clear. I tried them out at night for astronomy and was surprised at how well the worked for that too. Very happy with this purchase.

[8x] I am impressed with these binoculars from Pentax. They are sharp, bright, and have excellent eye relief. The field of view is good, contrary to what another review says. I find the diopter correction in the center easier to use than the type on the right eyepiece, and I don't have a problem with it moving - it actually clicks into place and stays there.


I was looking for a pair of 8x42s which were waterproof and NOT made in China. These are made in the Philippines and are the least expensive pair which meet my criteria. I do not in any way regret this choice.


The only criticism I have, and it is minor, is the case, It has no straps, belt loops, etc. It is always a problem knowing whether you should have a case with a strap for a camera or binoculars with a strap, it can get to be too much when in use. I plan to attach a small clip or carabiner to the case so I can clip if to my belt or pack when I take it off the binoculars. Otherwise it could get put down somewhere and lost, or stuffed in a pocket.

[Roof] This is my third pair of binoculars, ever. They have the brightest, sharpest, and best contrast imaging I've ever had. Great for birds and the stars in the night sky. The lens caps aren't the best, and the case isn't made with closed-cell foam. The binoculars are great, and the accessories aren't, but, who cares?