Canon 18x50 Image Stabilization All-Weather Binoculars: With Case, Neck Strap, and Batteries - Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts Review

I've had other Canon IS binoculars and loved them. Wanted to give a family member an old pair of 10 x 30's (less than a year old) and 'upgrade' to a large jar! Was so amazed by the 18x magnification and low light stargazing possibilities. This was a big disappointment. The ergonomics are completely different from other pairs. The button placement for the IS is in an odd spot to begin with, making it more awkward to adjust focus while using IS at the same time. Unlike other pairs I've had but…

SUMMARY: Despite the significant "CONS" listed below, I like my 18X50 and would buy it again (if i could afford it). Having only been using these binoculars for a few days I believe Canon knows everything about quality lenses and image stabilization but much less about good binocular design. PROS: The image stabilization technology is incredible. When you press the IS button, it feels like you've just escaped the rattling gravity as your rocket rises, flattens and enters space. This is a WOW…

As an amateur astronomer, I have used my stabilized Canon 18X50 lenses for several years on two continents and in many dark sky locations and now I find them unsuitable for celestial observations. I start with the positive and then move on to my problems. If you use your binoculars for hunting, bird watching, boating, etc. my comments may not be relevant. The big advantage of Canon is that the stabilization works really well. My 18X50 binoculars are MUCH more stable than regular 7X or 10X…