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Review: Esker BG-1 8X42 Binoculars
17 April 2023
By Dave Rowntree
By Dave Rowntree
Esker is a new kid on the optics block. Exclusively available from Norfolk's, Cley Spy. Our very own Dave R recently gave the entry level binoculars a test in the field. Should you consider buying them? Let's find out...
The BG-1 Binoculars have been named after the BTO's species code for the Brent Goose. Famed for being a tough little visitor to our shores, Brent Geese are capable of travelling great distances and weathering the harshest storms - potential owners of these binoculars will be happy to hear of these comparisons.
What's in the box?
Images and coatings:
The light gathering power from the BG-1's was very good indeed and I had clearly defined images in woodland conditions that were bright and sharp. Even if this would have been a truly bleak morning instead of the bright spring sunshine that has eluded us for most of April so far, the nitrogen in the lenses would have prevented any fogging and unpleasantness, providing a serious benefit to the observer.
From looking through the lenses for a sustained period of time, I could see no obvious colour fringing. Certainly nothing that would put you off when considering a purchase anyways.
Performance and handling:
The Esker BG-1 comes with a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects. This is usually a very good sign that the manufacturer has used good quality materials in the production process and put a fair degree of thought into their product. A +1 for the Esker's before even leaving their box.
At just 660 grams, the BG-1's are a lightweight option for those looking for an entry level binocular that won't get on your nerves after being hung around your neck for a sustained period of time. I really liked the pickup of these binoculars with their rubber armouring, they had a lovely feel to them. The grip around the barrels, definitely felt more premium than the price eludes to.
In terms of mechanics, the focuser is nice and chunky, and does the job really nicely. The twist-up eyecups are perhaps the most satisfying feature of these binoculars, the process feels very robust and there is a subtle 'click' as you extend them out for non spectacle wearers. Again, giving off a more premium feel than their price tag would suggest. Produced in black, the Esker BG-1 8x42's are now available from Cley Spy via shopping online or shopping in-store.
Verdict:
A good binocular that would be a great choice of purchase for either an entry level nature observer or young birder looking for both value and performance.
★★★★★★★★ 7/10
Testing scores
📦 Buy now: www.cleyspy.co.uk
🏷 Price: £129.00
The BG-1 Binoculars have been named after the BTO's species code for the Brent Goose. Famed for being a tough little visitor to our shores, Brent Geese are capable of travelling great distances and weathering the harshest storms - potential owners of these binoculars will be happy to hear of these comparisons.
What's in the box?
- Esker BG-1 8x42 Binoculars
- Carry Case
- User Manual
- Carrying Strap
Images and coatings:
The light gathering power from the BG-1's was very good indeed and I had clearly defined images in woodland conditions that were bright and sharp. Even if this would have been a truly bleak morning instead of the bright spring sunshine that has eluded us for most of April so far, the nitrogen in the lenses would have prevented any fogging and unpleasantness, providing a serious benefit to the observer.
From looking through the lenses for a sustained period of time, I could see no obvious colour fringing. Certainly nothing that would put you off when considering a purchase anyways.
Performance and handling:
The Esker BG-1 comes with a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects. This is usually a very good sign that the manufacturer has used good quality materials in the production process and put a fair degree of thought into their product. A +1 for the Esker's before even leaving their box.
At just 660 grams, the BG-1's are a lightweight option for those looking for an entry level binocular that won't get on your nerves after being hung around your neck for a sustained period of time. I really liked the pickup of these binoculars with their rubber armouring, they had a lovely feel to them. The grip around the barrels, definitely felt more premium than the price eludes to.
In terms of mechanics, the focuser is nice and chunky, and does the job really nicely. The twist-up eyecups are perhaps the most satisfying feature of these binoculars, the process feels very robust and there is a subtle 'click' as you extend them out for non spectacle wearers. Again, giving off a more premium feel than their price tag would suggest. Produced in black, the Esker BG-1 8x42's are now available from Cley Spy via shopping online or shopping in-store.
Verdict:
A good binocular that would be a great choice of purchase for either an entry level nature observer or young birder looking for both value and performance.
★★★★★★★★ 7/10
Testing scores
- Design: ★★★★★★★ 7/10
- Performance: ★★★★★★★★ 8/10
- Durability: ★★★★★★★ 7/10
- Weight: ★★★★★★★ 7/10
- Value: ★★★★★★★★ 8/10
📦 Buy now: www.cleyspy.co.uk
🏷 Price: £129.00
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