Pentax Papilio 6.5x21

We found the best comparison review of the Pentax Papilio 6.5x21 at Outdoor Life, where field tests of 80 binoculars lead to an Editors Choice award for the Papilio. Wayne Mones provides more detailed tests in his single-product review at BetterViewDesired.com. At Birdwatching.com, experienced binocular testers Michael and Diane Porter review the Papilio in two sizes. We also found useful comments from owners at Amazon.com and Excelsis.com, a site for amateur astronomers.

For light, compact binoculars with extreme close focus, reviewers give top ranking to the Pentax Papilio. Though they can focus as close as 18 inches and can double as a field microscope, reviewers say the Pentax Papilio are also acceptable for birding and hunting, with a 393-foot field of view. Their 10.2-ounce weight and compact size (4.5 x 4.3 in.) make them ideal for sightseeing as well. They're considered excellent for their price, and carry a warranty that includes lifetime $20 repairs. However, the Pentax Papilio binoculars are not waterproof or fogproof, and don't gather enough light to make them comparable with better, bigger binoculars at dusk and dawn - the best times to view birds and other wildlife - for which reviewers recommend the more expensive Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42 (*est. $250).