Olympus Trooper 10x50 DPS Review

The Olympus Trooper is a wide-angle binocular that combines a high magnification power with easy to adjust focus.

Performance Comparison

Clarity

As mentioned above, the Olympus Trooper 10x50 provides one of the crispest and clearest images of all of the binoculars tested. However, in order to get a crisp image, the binoculars need to be held with elbows supported against the rib cage. This allows the binoculars to become slightly more steady while viewing, and reduces the shakiness seen while trying to follow a moving object. The shakiness can be avoided all together if you use a tripod, are able to balance the binoculars on a stationary object, or are amazingly strong and can maintain a steady hands.

The Olympus Trooper 10x50 is advertised as having a "wide-angle view" for "keeping up with fast moving subjects." While this intention is excellent, the Trooper 10x50 has a field of view of 342 ft x 1000 yds. This ranks the Trooper # 6 out of 11 binoculars tested when looking at just Field of View. The Bushnell Legacy 8x42 has the largest field of view at 430 ft x 1000 yards, yet at the same time is 1/2 " shorter in width. Even the compact Best Buy winner, the Nikon Trailblazer 8x25 ATB has a larger field of view.

Magnification

With a magnification power of 10, the Troopers provide a powerful punch in tandem with an optical lens size of 50. This allows for the Troopers to work in multiple lighting conditions, even low light setting such as dawn or dusk. Once again, the down side to these binoculars is that their large magnifying power results in a shaky image unless you can steady the binoculars while viewing an object.

Ease of Adjustment

If you have very large hands, then this binocular is made for you. With a wide design and wider barrels, the Olympus Trooper 10x50 can be difficult to adjust for those without larger hands. For a quick reference, while testing, I personally found these difficult to adjust, and I wear a size Large W's glove and a Small to Medium M's glove. A male tester found these more comfortable, and he wears a large size M's glove.

Another thing to consider is that if you have a narrow face, you might also find these binoculars uncomfortable for viewing. There are other binoculars on the market with the same clarity & magnification that could fit your face more comfortably. Other options include the Nikon Monarch 3 8x42 or the Canon 10x30 IS.

Durability

With a tough plastic outer coating and multiple lens caps, the Olympus Trooper 10x50 is built to last. From being shoved into backpacks, falling five feet onto the ground, and being sat on by my 35 pound dog (accidentally!), the Trooper lived up to its name.

Portability

At 30 ounces, and over 7 inches in length, the Olympus Trooper is not compact. Using a porro-prism design, it has additional bulkiness that you will not find in roof prism binoculars. The Trooper is a great binocular, but it does take up considerable space in any backpack.

Best Application

The Olympus Trooper 10x50 is great for any outdoorsmen looking for a large binocular as their companion. Hunting, birding, and even star gazing, the Trooper is a performer!

Value