The Bushnell Stableview, an economical marine-grade image stabilized binocular, tested here features a magnification factor of 10x coupled with 35 mm objective lenses.
The objective lenses and all the gadgetry needed to operate the stabilization are contained in a box shaped case that tapers toward the front.
Bushnell Stableview Binocular
The rear panel contains controls and a pair of eyepieces that adjust for interpupillary distance in tandem.
Rubber eyecups twist in and out to accommodate different users. Detents in the twist mechanism allow the eyecups to lock in one of four positions.
To improve a users grip, hand contact areas are covered with textured black rubber.
A hand strap on the left side doubles as a grip enhancer and a case for the pair of AA batteries required for operation. We dont particularly like the external battery box in the hand strap, though it is adjustable. Wed prefer it to be removable and clearly this cannot be done due to its secondary function as battery holder.
The Bushnell Stableview 10×35 binocular weighs in at 44.7 ounces.
Bushnell Image Stabilization
Bushnell uses two piezo gyro vibration sensors (basically a crystal that produces electrical signals when moved), one for the vertical axis and one for the horizontal axis, coupled to a pair of direct drive motors to move a prism assembly in the desired direction to counter any binocular movement. A microprocessor controls the system.
Two modes of operation exist, Normal counters the long slow rolling motion found on a boat while Fine counteracts handshake. Bushnell states the normal and fine mode have maximum correction angles of 3 degrees and 1 degree, respectively.
Focusing
Focusing is done using a single diopter on the right eyepiece and a center-focus knob on the top of the case. The diopter scale is only marked with a plus, minus, and an index. No numerical scale is provided.
These binoculars are focused by using the center-focus knob with the right eye closed, and then with the left eye closed refocus the right eye image with the diopter adjustment. Once done all further focusing is done only with the center-focus.
Operation
Two switches control the stabilization on the Bushnell binocular while a tri-color LED light indicates readiness and mode. Power-up the unit by momentarily holding the power button until the LED flashes orange. The LED will continue to flash orange for 5 seconds while a self-test is completed. The LED will go steady orange to indicate standby and ready for operation. To activate stabilization in the normal mode move the stabilization lever to active. A momentary press of the power button switches between normal and fine mode.
Viewability
We rated the Bushnell Stableview binocular good for viewability. Our testers were very impressed with the Bushnell image stabilization system. It provided enough stability to read the numbers on the channel markers at a distance of 1 nautical mile.
Odds and Ends
The Stableview binoculars come equipped with a snug-fitting padded foam case and a 1½-inch wide padded neck strap.
These binoculars are not equipped with any front lens covers.
This Bushnell binocular carries a 2-year warranty.