Binoculars S250 FRASER Optics 14x41, STEDI-EYE® Technology Image-Stabilized

Fraser Optics has the reputation for making the best image stabilized binoculars. They are the choice of the US Navy and Coast Guard, law enforcement departments, commercial and recreational fishing captains. Even traffic reporters, police helicopters, and search and rescue teams find them worth the invensment. This 14x41 S250 Stedi-Eye® image stabilization binoculars from Fraser Optics have black and yellow rubber armor. It employs a gyroscopic stabilization mechanism to virtually eliminate the appearance of hand shake, vibration and platform movement by moving a precisely balanced gimbal that supports the prism and lens assembly to make the image appear stable. High-magnification optics like these are extremely prone to visible hand tremors, which interfere with clear, immersive views. Through the use of image stabilization (IS), you can enjoy high-power/long-distance observation without the distracting vibrations or the need for a tripod or other support system normally required to obtain stable images. Its waterproof and shockproof hard case is suitable for any adversity. Inside there are various accessories:

• Fraser Advanced lens cleaning kit
• monopod telescopic stand (with 2 tips for all types of ground)
• 2 lithium batteries, rechargeable
• battery charger
• power bank
• usb charger (220V)
• shoulder strap
• user manual
• manuals and keys for accessories

Basics

The S250s are gyro-stabilized 14x41 roof prism binoculars with individual focus eyepieces. With this type of binocular, you set the diopters separately for each eyepiece for maximum depth of field and do not need to focus them again unless the diopters get moved or your eyesight changes. You don’t have to focus the binoculars once they are set. Not having to worry about focus while on a moving platform, be it a ship, aircraft, or land vehicle makes viewing less of a process. You just point and view. The downside of individual focus binoculars is that the close focus distance can be very long. In the case of the S250, it measures about 180 feet. The S250 is for distance viewing: their primary functions are navigation and surveillance. The field of view is 222’ at 1000 yds. which is fairly wide for a 14x binoculars. That they work well for viewing distant wildlife or for astronomy is a bonus.

Optical Performance

The S250 has fully multi-coated MgFl (Magnesium Fluoride) glass that deliver bright, sharp images, with only barely perceptible chromatic aberration. We had to look very carefully to see it at all. But of course, virtually all of the top end binoculars have similar optics. Where the Fraser Optics S250s really shine is image stabilization. With gyro-stabilized binoculars, it can be difficult for the gyros to keep the prisms synced to the movement of the binocular. If the user scans too fast, the prisms lag and the images have to recover to get back in sync, potentially making the user dizzy. Where the competition has IS binoculars that lose sync above 5°/second, Fraser Optics stabilized binoculars have a maximum scan rate of 8°/second. The result is faster scanning and faster recovery.

Durability

Weather is not an issue for the S250. It is waterproof, submersible, and buoyant. Since it is intended for use by the US Navy and Coast Guard, it is also shockproof and ruggedized for the most adverse conditions.

Operation

To begin using the S250, the user inserts a CR-123 battery in the waterproof battery compartment. Set the power button to off and the stabilization switch to LOCKED. Next, set the interpupillary distance (IPD) as usual so the view is a single circle. To turn on stabilization, press in the power button so that it turns green, wait about 15 seconds, and flip the stabilization lever to STABLE. The prisms will now scan and stabilize the image as the binocular moves. When you raise the binoculars to your eyes, do so smoothly, so you don't cause the prisms to lag vertically. The eyecups are rubber and fold down to adjust between those who wear eyeglasses and those who don’t.

Conclusion

The Fraser Optics S250 Stabilized Binocular is definitely the right tool for the right job. The S250 is superb for all pelagic use including military, whale watching, and fishing. In the air, it is the best choice for surveillance, search and rescue, and scouting. On the ground, surveillance, hawk watches, and viewing distant wildlife are prime uses. They were available in three colors: yellow, black, and tan.

Technical Optical Performance:

• Powerful 14x power is optimized for long-distance observation and identification with individual focus for quick target acquisition
• 41mm objectives help to lower the overall form factor while preserving low-light performance
• Compact roof prism design allows the entire prism system to be installed on the stabilization gimbal without compromising performance
• Broadband magnesium fluoride (MgFl) anti-reflection multicoatings maximize light transmission across the entire visible spectrum to provide bright and clear high-contrast views with accurate color and improved resolution
• 223-foot field of view at 1000 yards
• Superior scan rate

Image Stabilization:

• Advanced mechanical gyro-stabilization system has no motors and relies on a precisely balanced gimbal system and simple gyroscope, eliminating the possibility of delicate electronics wearing out or failing under extreme conditions and harsh use
• Up to 98% reduction of image motion
• Wide 8°/second scan rate
• 4.3 arcsecond resolution
• Generous ±8° stabilization freedom allows the IS system to compensate for wide movements such as moving over choppy water or experiencing turbulence in a helicopter

Use and Handling:

• Simple one-touch power button activates the internal gyroscope; lock/unlock lever frees the gimbal
• Individual focusing eyepieces' ±4 dioptric ranges enable the user to achieve tack-sharp views
• Standard 1/4"-20 tripod mount on the bottom provides the ability to directly mount the optic on most photo/video/field tripods, heads, quick release plates, or other support systems like window mounts
• Wide 52 to 75 mm interpupillary adjustment range allows comfortable use by people of all face sizes and shapes
• 15 mm eye relief
• 3.3 mm exit pupil

Construction Details:

• Black housing with removable and changeable tan boot for general purpose and/or tactical situations, especially in desert conditions, where bright colors are disadvantageous
• Additional boots are available in the same color or different colors, the former to replace the one that came on your optic and the latter to customize the color based on changing mission conditions & terrain
• Lightweight and durable fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate chassis
• Chassis material maintains a constant, neutral temperature in extreme environments and is temperature resistant, preventing the expansion and contraction that is common with metal, which can cause the optical components to move out of alignment over time and prevent sharp focus
• Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme temperature changes and environmental conditions
• Buoyant, so the binoculars won't sink if they go overboard
• Non-slip silicone cover for added comfort and an improved grip
• Tethered objective caps and one-piece ocular rainguard protect lenses when not in use and prevent them from getting lost or falling overboard
• Runs on one included CR123 battery, and a second battery is also included
• Up to 12 hours of operation on a single battery
• Covered port with built-in regulator for optional 6-28 VDC power cord
• Made in the USA

Company's night vision eye pieces use image intensifiers to deliver exceptional image clarity.

Fraser Optics products with STEDI-EYE® Technology eliminates motions and enhances clarity providing unparalleled performance and durability, giving users superior operational performance. Built with precision to military standards, company's systems have been proven under the harshest conditions, both on and off the battlefield.