Kowa BD II XD 8x42
Model BDII42-8XD
The Kowa BD II XD 8×42 is a full-size roof-prism binocular designed for wide-field outdoor observation. It combines 8x magnification and 42mm objective lenses with Kowa XD extra-low dispersion glass to help reduce chromatic aberration and maintain clear, detailed images. Its 8.2° field of view supports tracking birds and wildlife, while the 5.9 ft close-focus distance adds versatility for nearby subjects. A waterproof, nitrogen-filled magnesium alloy body makes it a practical choice for birdwatching, hunting, travel, and sporting events.
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Key Features
The Kowa BD II XD 8×42 combines 8x magnification, 42mm objective lenses, and Kowa XD extra-low dispersion glass for detailed outdoor observation. Its wide 8.2° field of view, 5.9 ft close-focus distance, and waterproof, nitrogen-filled construction make it a versatile choice for birdwatching, wildlife observation, hunting, and travel.
8x
Magnification
42 mm
Objective Lens
XD Glass
Optical Design
429 ft
Field of View at 1,000 yd
5.9 ft
Minimum Focus Distance
Waterproof
Weather Protection
Explore by Binocular Type
Binoculars are available in different optical configurations and sizes, each designed to balance portability, viewing comfort, and optical performance. Explore the main binocular types to understand their differences and find a format suited to your outdoor activities.
Roof Prism Binoculars
With straight-barrel construction and a streamlined profile, roof prism binoculars are popular among users who value convenient handling, compact dimensions, and dependable performance in the field.
Porro Prism Binoculars
Recognized by their wider, offset barrels, Porro prism binoculars offer a distinctive optical layout that provides natural depth perception and remains a practical choice for many outdoor applications.
Full-Size Binoculars
Full-size binoculars combine larger objective lenses with a substantial body, offering comfortable viewing for distant subjects, landscapes, and wildlife during extended outdoor trips.
Compact Binoculars
Smaller dimensions and reduced weight make compact binoculars easy to carry in a backpack or travel bag, offering a convenient option when portability matters more than large objective lenses.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 8x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42 mm |
| Prism Type | Roof Prism |
| Optical Glass | XD (Extra-Low Dispersion) |
| Field of View | 429 ft at 1,000 yd (8.2°) |
| Exit Pupil | 5.3 mm |
| Eye Relief | 17 mm |
| Close Focus | 5.9 ft (1.8 m) |
| Waterproof & Fogproof | Yes, nitrogen-filled |
| Weight | 22.6 oz (640 g) |
About This Model
The Kowa BD II XD 8×42 is a full-size roof-prism binocular designed for outdoor observation, combining 8x magnification with 42mm objective lenses. Its optical system incorporates Kowa XD extra-low dispersion glass, which helps reduce chromatic aberration and maintain image detail. The wide 8.2° field of view provides a broad viewing area, making it easier to follow moving subjects across open landscapes.
With a 5.9 ft minimum focusing distance, this model can also be used to observe nearby subjects, adding versatility beyond distant wildlife viewing. The 5.3mm exit pupil supports comfortable viewing, while the 17mm eye relief accommodates a range of viewing preferences. Its magnesium alloy body provides a durable structure without making the binoculars excessively heavy.
The BD II XD 8×42 features waterproof construction and nitrogen filling to protect its internal optical components against moisture and fogging. These characteristics make it suitable for use in changing outdoor conditions, including birdwatching, wildlife observation, hunting, and travel. At 22.6 oz, it offers a practical balance of optical capability, handling, and portability for regular outdoor use.
Full Specifications
Explore the complete Kowa BD II XD 8×42 specifications, including its 42mm XD objective lenses, 8.2° wide field of view, 5.3mm exit pupil, and 17mm eye relief. This detailed specification guide also covers close-focus performance, optical adjustments, magnesium alloy construction, waterproof protection, dimensions, weight, and included accessories to help you evaluate this full-size roof-prism binocular.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Kowa BD II XD 8x42 |
| Manufacturer Model Number | BDII42-8XD |
| Product Type | Full-Size Binoculars |
| Prism Design | Roof Prism |
| Magnification | 8x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42 mm |
| Objective Lens Type | Kowa XD (Extra-Low Dispersion) Glass |
| Real Field of View | 8.2° |
| Field of View at 1,000 yd | 429 ft |
| Field of View at 1,000 m | 143 m |
| Exit Pupil Diameter | 5.3 mm |
| Relative Brightness | 28.1 |
| Twilight Factor | 18.3 |
| Eye Relief | 17 mm |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 5.9 ft (1.8 m) |
| Interpupillary Distance | 57–76 mm |
| Diopter Compensation | ±4 diopters |
| Focusing System | Center Focus Wheel |
| Eyecups | Twist-Up |
| Lens Coatings | Fully Multi-Coated Optics; Kowa KR Protective Coating |
| Waterproof Construction | Yes |
| Fogproof Protection | Nitrogen-Filled |
| Body Material | Magnesium Alloy |
| Body Protection | Rubber Armor |
| Length | 5.5 in (139 mm) |
| Width | 5.0 in (128 mm) |
| Height | 2.1 in (52.5 mm) |
| Weight | 22.6 oz (640 g) |
| Included Accessories | Carrying Case, Shoulder Strap, Rainguard, Objective Lens Caps, Eyepiece Caps, Instruction Manual |
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Where to Buy
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