The 8X20 and 10X25 Premier LX compacts are the newest binoculars in Nikon's Premier Optics line. The pocket binoculars feature Nikon's exclusive Eco-GlassTM, which is made without lead or arsenic. Lenses are carefully ground and polished then coated with multiple layers of proprietary antireflective compounds to promote bright images. High-grade prisms used in the LX binoculars received two types of coating: a silver coating to boost light transmission and a special phase correction coating for sharpness and clarity. Field of view at 1000 yards with the 8X is 356 feet; at 1000 yards with the 10X, it's 282 feet. Close focus distance for the 8X20 is7.9 feet; for the 10X25 it's 10.5 feet. Eye relief for both binoculars is 15mm. The bodies are lightweight magnesium alloy, rubber-coated to be shockproof. The 8X20 measures 3.8x4.3 inches; the 10X25 measures 4.4x4.3 inches. Each has a weight of about 10 ounces. Other features include central focusing, a central diopter control and slide, and lock eyecups that retract for use with eyeglasses. The suggested retail price of the 8X20 is $349.99; the 10X25 is $379.99.

For more information, contact Nikon Sport Optics, Dept. ST, 1300 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747; (800) 2467-3464; www.nikonusa.com.