The 8 x 40mm Birder is a center focus Z-body porro using BK-7 prisms. Its optics are fully magnesium fluoride coated for high light transmission. It has a rubber-armored body that is light in weight and very comfortable to carry. The 14' close focus is reasonably good for such a modestly priced binocular. Combine that with the bright images of its 40mm objectives, and you have a very useful binocular for close-in woodland birding as well as more long distance observing across open fields.

The Birder comes with a soft vinyl case and fold down rubber eyecups. A socket for an optional photo tripod adapter is built into the center hinge. There are snap-in eyepiece and objective lens covers that have loops to attach them to the rather thin neck strap supplied with the binocular. In time, you may want to replace the narrow neck strap with a wide padded neck strap for more comfortable all-day carrying. The loops of the lens covers will fit all of the optional wide neck straps we carry.

The Natureview Birder is a super gift to start a new birder on a lifelong hobby, or as a second binocular for friends or family members. It’s an excellent value when cost is important, as its quality is quite surprisingly good when you consider its very modest price.