DD Optics Kaleu HDX 7x50

These Kaleu HDX binoculars from the German brand DD Optics incorporate the tried and tested 7x50 configuration built around the Porro prism design that has become the standard for binoculars specifically designed for marine uses.

Firstly the moderate 7x magnification hels ensure a wide field of view that makes it easier to scan wide open waters and it also makes it much easier to keep the image still and remove image shake on the unstable platform of a boat or yacht on choppy water.

This 7x magnification in combination with the large 50mm lenses produces a very large 7.1mm exit pupil. These large diameter shafts of light exiting the ocular lenses ensure that your eyes are supplied with more than enough light in all weather conditions.

Here too, the fully multi-coated HDX anti-reflection coatings on all the optical surfaces as well as the high-quality Porro prisms that offer 100% total internal reflection also help ensure that as much light as possible that is captured by the objective lenses gets transmitted to your eyes for brighter higher quality views.

The DD Optics Kaleu HDX 7x50 binocular also features an integrated and hydro stabilized compass that enables accurate heading reading possible even on rough water. As well as this there is an illuminated heads-up reticle display in the view that allows you to estimate distances, which when on the open water can be extremely important.

Another excellent feature that is particularly useful when out on the water and over longer distances is the always in focus optical system. This means that once you have set up the diopter on each of the eyepieces to match your particular vision, no further focus adjustments are ever required and everything from its minimum focusing distance of 3 meters right to infinity will remain in focus and completely sharp.

As you would expect on any marine binocular, the Kaleu HDX is completely watertight and also resists salt water up to a depth of 5m for 3 minutes. The interior cavity is also nitrogen filled, which ensures that any internal fogging of the lenses is inhibited.

Covered in a rubber armor for extra protection and grip, even when wet, the chassis on these Kaleu HDX 7x50 binoculars is fashioned from a lightweight, but extremely robust fiber-reinforced plastic that will help prevent damage, should you accidentally drop the instrument.

A real highlight on these DD Optics binoculars is the extremely long eye relief. Measuring a full 22mm, they make an excellent choice for the eyeglass wearer.

Accessories include a neck strap by Niggeloh, a protective carry bag, lens as well as eyepiece covers and a cleaning cloth.

With all these features and more, it is easy to see why this binocular is not only a popular choice for boaters, sailors, skippers, charterers and yacht owners, but it can also be very useful for hiking expeditions as well as search and rescue types of operations.