For decades the standard military binocular in many of the world's armies was a 6x30mm model because this combination provides a wide field of view, useful magnification range, and decent low-light performance in a compact package. Leupold's 6x30mm Yosemite is no different. Optical performance of this model was pretty good, and the focus knob goes from lock to lock in less than 300 degrees of rotation. I left my review model outside in a constant downpour for two days with no ill effects.

The porro prism binocular looks a bit dated, but this design is inherently more robust than a roof prism. Light and handy, it is easy to carry about. However, for some purposes 6X will simply not be enough magnification, and these are marked "Made in China" on the side and sport a green rather than a gold ring, so don't expect Golden Ring optical performance. Models are available with black, natural, and dark red rubber armor.

New to Leupold's flagship Golden Ring binocular line is a compact 8x32mm model with three-position twist-up eyecups and brown rubber armor.

8x32mm Golden Ring Binocular
If you are looking for the best binocular Leupold has to offer, then simply look for the Golden Ring. For 2006 Leupold expanded its flagship Golden Ring line by adding 8x32mm and 10x32mm compact models. I've always been somewhat partial to 8x32mm models, so I selected this model to review. It is a roof prism design and sports 32mm objective lenses and 8X magnification, which generate a 4mm exit pupil.

Field of view is a wide 420 feet at 1000 yards. Optically, this model sports Leupold's Index Matched Lens System with phase coated prisms. Features include the Golden Ring signature brown rubber armor coating, twist-up eyecups with three positions, and an Interpupillary Distance Lock. This latter feature allows you to set the distance between the eyepieces to match your eyes and then lock the setting. A simple feature, it eliminates having to constantly reset your binocular every time you pick it up.

In the field the Leupold 8x32mm performed very well. It comes with a carrying case, objective and ocular covers, and a carrying strap for accessories. Putting it to use I noted the focus knob went from lock to lock in less than one full rotation. The eyecups adjusted easily and locked into place securely. Optically, this model performed very well with accurate color rendition. Resolution was excellent in the center of the image with a slight degradation at the edges.

Sizewise this model is fairly compact being only 5.2 inches long. Covered in a durable rubber armor the Golden Ring shrugs off knocks, blows, and dings without taking a scratch. To check its waterproofing I left it outside during two days of heavy downpours. The heavy rain didn't bother it in the least. Weight is a bit heavier than I'd like at a fast-food-guzzling 27 ounces. Plus, if the carrying strap's mounting points were recessed the body would be more comfortable to hold and handle. A high-quality binocular assembled here in the U.S., Leupold's 8x32mm Golden Ring is a precision optical instrument that should serve you well for years.