A new release from the RSPB, the RSPB Sparrowhawk Binoculars are their most expensive and sophisticated optics to date. Priced at £850-860 for the 8.5x42 and 10x42 respectively it would seem like they have identified a gap in the market between top-tier mid-range binoculars and the more serious offerings from the likes of Zeiss and Swarovski. On paper at least it looks like this could be a shrewd move and whilst many birders may still baulk at the prospect of shelling out just under £1k for a pair of binoculars, they do become a much more attractive proposition for those interested in a pair of Swarovski EL 8.5x42 WB Binoculars, which will set you back as much as £1,620.
Needless to say we were thrilled to get our hands on a pair to put them to the test and find out if they live up to their potential!
Related: Top 10 Best Binoculars for Birdwatching
Key features of the RSPB Sparrowhawk
- High-quality Schmidt-Pechan Prism
- Fully multicoated optics with ED glass objective lens
- Premium lightweight magnesium construction
- Dielectric coated, phase corrected BAK 4 Prisms
- Field of View: 8°
- Weight: 700g
Design & Build
The RSPB Sparrowhawk 8.5x42 Binoculars boast a robust yet lightweight design, weighing 700 grams. This is pretty comfortable for a pair of full-size binoculars and means that they are comfortable to hold and wear for extended birdwatching sessions. For comparison the Swarovski EL 8.5x42 WB Binoculars weigh in at 835g.
The magnesium alloy body provides durability, while the textured rubber armour offers a secure grip. They might not have quite the same “wow factor” as unboxing a pair of Swarovski but I have to say my overall impression of the build quality of these is excellent. As you’d expect for optics at this price point the binoculars are also nitrogen-filled and fully waterproof, preventing fogging and ensuring clear vision in various weather conditions. And they come with a 10-year warranty, which is the same as offered by Swarovski.
Optical Quality
Equipped with Phase and SHR Coated Schmidt-Pechan Prisms and flat field multicoated ED lenses, the RSPB Sparrowhawk offer a marked step up from their next model down, the Buzzards. We tested on a clear day and experienced sharp, high-contrast images with minimal chromatic aberration. The 8.5x magnification and 42mm objective lens diameter strike a perfect balance between magnification, light-gathering, and field of view making them an ideal choice for wildlife. And there is a close focus of 2m on the 8.5x42 and 1.5m on the 10x42.
Performance
The binoculars feature twist-up eyecups with multiple settings, accommodating both eyeglass wearers and those without. The central focus wheel is smooth and responsive, allowing for quick adjustments when tracking moving birds. With a close focus distance of 2 meters, these binoculars are also excellent for observing insects and other nearby wildlife.
Comparison: RSPB Sparrowhawk vs. Swarovski EL 8.5x42 WB
The Swarovski EL 8.5x42 WB is widely regarded as one of the finest binoculars available, with near-legendary status in the birdwatching community. But how does the more accessible RSPB Sparrowhawk ED 8.5x42 measure up?
| Features | RSPB Sparrowhawk ED 8.5x42 | Swarovski EL 8.5x42 WB |
| Price | ~£850 | ~£1,600 |
| Magnification | 8.5x | 8.5x |
| Objective Lens | 42mm | 42mm |
| ED/HD Glass | Yes | Yes |
| Field of View @ 1000m | 140m | 133m |
| Close Focus Distance | 2m | 1.5m |
| Weight | 700g | 835g |
| Waterproof/Fogproof | Yes | Yes |
| Eye Relief | 16.7mm | 20mm |
| Origin | Japanese Optics | Made in Austria |
RSPB Sparrowhawk: The Verdict
I loved testing the RSPB Sparrowhawk 8.5x42 Binoculars and think they’re a stand out choice for birdwatchers looking to invest in a serious pair of optics. No, it probably doesn’t have the same esteem as sporting a pair of Swarovski’s but it is going to give you similar performance and a happier bank balance.
Final Rating: 4.9/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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