German Army Hensoldt DF 8x30 Binoculars

*Note* These binoculars have been vacuum sealed after service for their own protection for years. Due to age/use, some of the rubber lens covers might not be in the best shape & have a strong smell. Otherwise in good functional condition

These fully rubber armoured binoculars were first produced between 1959-1963 and used by the Bundeswehr (West German Army). World famous optic producer Zeiss had acquired a majority stock holding in Hensoldt in 1954 and got the contract to produce these for the military. Ironically after this date, the Bundeswehr swapped to a cheaper, more mass produced binocular by Steiner. In the end, the Steiner cost the government more money in breakages and returned back to these hardy Hensoldt's - something they still currently stick with today in a very similar design (Fero-D16)!

Even with modern designs, you can't always have it all with large magnification and wide angle views - the Hensoldt is a well balanced military binocular. There are much higher magnification binoculars out there but these allow for a decent amount while giving a good angle of view. Being 8x30 provides a good middle ground for observing while still being very portable & lightweight. The housing is solid metal with a nitrogen filling and comes with rubber armour to help protect it from knocks. Both lenses focus individually and have markers for reference which is very handy! The right hand lens also has a crisp rangefinder. One thing of note is the eye relief is not great on these - glasses users might have a hard time.

All in all, a very robust binocular designed to put up with harsh military life. Get yourself a quality bit of German glass today - they won't be around long!   

Specs:

• Magnification - 8x
• Objective Lens - 30mm
• Focus System - Individual, scale from -5 to +5
• Prism System - baK-4 prisms
• Field of View - 370 feet at 1000 yards
• Eye Relief - 12mm
• Exit Pupil - 3.8mm
• Real angle of view - 8°
• Apparent angle of view - 64°
• Waterproof - Yes
• Nitrogen filling - Yes
• Protective rubber coat - Yes