We’ve become accustomed to Whitby’s expanding range of knives. Now, however, they’ve created a new brand called ‘Whitby Gear’, which is currently offering binos and a few compasses. Incidentally, all their binoculars have dioptre adjust, close focus down to 5m, and fully multi-coated lenses. They also come in nylon cases with a belt loop, neck strap, and lens cloth.
Small
Starting with the smallest in the range, the Whitby Gear 8x21 Compact Binoculars measure 10x7x4cm and weigh 165-grams, plus have a FOV of 101m @ 1000m. Though basic, don’t be fooled into thinking they’re cheap and cheerful, because they utilise patented Roof (K9) Porro prisms that give an image that’s crisp and sharp.
They boast the usual and expected, centrally-positioned focus knob that provides the user with quick and easy one-finger adjustment. The rugged design features a non-slip rubber body, ensuring a secure grip in all weather conditions.
Medium
Next up are the 10x25 Compact Binoculars, which measure 11x12x4.5cm and weigh 288-grams. Classed as a small, casual pair of binoculars for multiple uses, they have a field of view of 114m @ 1000m. The main focus dial is positioned towards the back/middle for easy access. Wisely, they also feature rubberised and textured side grips, plus collapsible rubber eye cups that will suit most users. They sit very nicely in the hold and the configuration of the outer casing is designed to protect and hold the Reverse Porro (BK7) prisms inside.
Large
Last but not least are the 8x42 binoculars. Though classed as compacts, they are more in line with what we have come to expect of binos in this specification. Measuring 18x13x6.5cm and weighing 820-grams, they offer a FOV of 123m @ 1000m. They utilise high-quality BAK-4 prisms for sharp, clear images, while the multi-coated lenses deliver the brightness and colour fidelity required. The 8x magnification and 42mm objective lenses make it easy to view long-distance targets in exceptional detail. Again, they show an easy access central focus knob and independent right dioptre adjustment. They are fully rubber armoured, and the extra-long eye relief and twist-up eyecups make these binoculars perfect for users who wear glasses. To top things off, they also come with front and rear lens covers.
Conclusions
Not every shooter or outdoorsman can afford to pay the high prices demanded by some brands for ancillary kit such as this. However, with optics, you can’t scrimp on quality, so when you do find something in a price bracket that meets your requirements, then these, especially considering today’s credit-crunching times, are certainly worth considering. In that respect, the three offerings here are surprisingly good quality, easy to use, and boast image quality that you’d expect from binos costing far more.
Thanks to Pete Wadeson and Gun Mart for writing and letting us share this review.