CANON 10x42L IS WP BINOCULAR

An outstanding choice for super-steady stargazing thanks to fabulous image stabilisation, a waterproof design and large objective lenses

- Jamie Carter

ADVICE

Cost: £1,699.99 / $1,499

From: Canon

Magnification: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42mm

Angular field of view: 6.5 degrees

Eye relief: 1.4 centimetres (0.57 inches)

Weight: 1.1 kilograms

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The only member of Canon's L Series of binoculars, not only do they come equipped with astronomycentric glass, but also boast Canon's Image Stabilisation (IS). Though not exclusive to Canon, the IS system is not widely used. That's partly because it's so expensive, though few who have had the good fortune to try this electronic system consisting of motion sensors and a vari-angle prism will say it's not worth the outlay. It works like a dream; you press a button and the 'shake' disappears. For anyone who's struggled with keeping binoculars steady enough for properly immersive stargazing, the Canon 10x42L IS WP is the answer. Not only does it come at a price, but there are a few drawbacks. The IS system takes significant battery power and the package includes some disappointing lens caps. However, as a technologically advanced binocular for astronomy, the 10x42L IS WP is hard to beat.