Buy 42mm Binoculars Online Switzerland

What does 42 mm mean for light gathering?

The objective diameter determines light gathering. With an 8x42 binocular, the exit pupil is 5.25 mm; with 10x42 still 4.2 mm. Very good daytime performance and fully dusk-suitable. For maximum light gathering the 50 mm or 56 mm binocular is the next step; for lighter carrying the 32 mm binocular.

8x42, 10x42 or 14x42 – which configuration?

On a 42 mm binocular, several magnifications are common:

8x42 – bestselling all-rounder with 5.25 mm exit pupil. Brighter, steadier, wider field of view – classic for forest birdwatching. More on 8x magnification.

10x42 – reach all-rounder with 4.2 mm exit pupil – ideal for open terrain, mountains and stalking. More on 10x magnification.

14x42 with image stabiliser – Long-Range freehand-suitable (e.g. ALPEN Apex Steady). More on 14x magnification.

16x42, 20x42 with image stabiliser – maximum reach freehand. More on 16x and 20x.

42 mm binocular: What to look for when buying?

On a 42 mm binocular, build quality pays off. ED glass reduces colour fringing on contrast edges and is almost mandatory in this class. Look for full multi-coating (FMC), BAK-4 prisms with phase coating, IPX7 waterproofness and nitrogen or argon filling. General buying criteria on the main category Binoculars & Field Glasses.

✓ Hunters (8x42 and 10x42 as classics)

✓ Birdwatchers (8x42 as forest standard)

✓ Mountain hikers and nature observers

✓ All-round outdoor users

✓ Pro users with high quality demands

Frequently asked questions – 42 mm binoculars

Why is 42 mm the all-round standard?

Because 42 mm delivers the optimal mix of light gathering, reach and weight. With 5.25 mm exit pupil at 8x42 fully dusk-suitable, with 700-850 g still comfortable to carry.

8x42 or 10x42 binocular – which is better?

An 8x42 binocular is steadier and has a wider field of view – ideal for forest and close range. A 10x42 brings more detail – ideal for mountains, open terrain and sport. For all-round flexible 8x42, for reach clearly 10x42.

How bright is a 42 mm binocular at dusk?

Very good. At 8x42 with 5.25 mm exit pupil usable until deep dusk; at 10x42 with 4.2 mm slightly limited but still clearly better than 32 mm.

Is ED glass worthwhile on a 42 mm binocular?

Clearly yes. ED glass reduces colour fringing on contrast edges – a clear plus for birdwatching with bright sky background.

Is a 42 mm binocular suitable for hunting?

A classic. 8x42 for forest and all-round, 10x42 for open habitats and stalking – with ED glass and IPX7 waterproofness also suitable for dusk and bad weather.

42 mm or 50 mm binocular – which is better?

42 mm is about 200 g lighter and more compact, 50 mm delivers 42 % more light area. For pure daytime and all-round use 42 mm is enough; for deep dusk or astronomy the 50 mm.

Are there 42 mm binoculars with image stabiliser?

Yes, with ALPEN Apex Steady there are 14x42, 16x42 and 20x42 with electronic image stabiliser – freehand-suitable even at high magnification.