Sets The Standard For Handheld Viewing

Author's Rating:

Pros: Excellent optics, effective stabilization

Cons: Bulky, heavy, inadequate neckstrap

The Bottom Line: 
High magnification, excellent performance and stable viewing in a handheld instrument makes this a "must-have" for astronomers.

Author's Review
I've been using the Canon 15x50 IS for about a month now, mostly for nighttime stargazing. I've been using high quality 10x50, 8x56 and 7x50 binoculars for this purpose for over a decade. Binoculars offer wide views and bright images for backyard astronomers, as well as ease of use and immediate availability. Just step outside with your binos in hand, and you're ready to begin viewing.

My conventional binos have served well, but the concept of Canon's "Image Stabilization" intrigued me. Standing unsupported and trying to view at high angles gets to be problematic with 10x binos, due to the "shakiness". The possibility of a steady view at 15x proved to be a lure that I couldn't resist.

The Canon 15x50 IS AW arrived well packed, with an overly detailed instruction manual. It includes a serviceable padded nylon carrying bag, two AA batteries, an inadequate neckstrap, and eyepiece covers. The binocular is claimed to be "all weather", meaning that it can stand up to cold, damp conditions, but it isn't waterproof, so don't submerge it.

The is a large, somewhat heavy instrument to hang around your neck. The supplied neckstrap WILL keep it draped over your neck, but not comfortably. I immediately ordered a large well padded deluxe strap and it's a huge improvement.

Now, on to what you're REALLY reading this review for: optical performance. I'm fairly critical about binocular optics. And, to be honest, I was somewhat uncertain about 15x magnification coupled with 50mm objective lenses, as I'd always thought that an exit pupil in the range of 5mm to 7mm was necessary for astronomy. The Canon's 3.33mm exit pupil invites skepticism. In use, the images are surprisingly bright, much more so than I'd anticipated. In addition, the images are sharp not only on-axis, but nearly out to the edge of the field of view. And, the field is incredibly flat. So, in terms of optics, the Canon rates a solid "A".

How well does the stabilization work? In short: very well! Pressing the activator button turns the system on for 5 minutes. Holding the button down keeps it activated until the button is released. Most often, I find my intended target without stabilization, then press the button. It takes a couple of seconds for the system to dampen the shaking, but the result is amazing. I'm now spoiled to the point that even looking through handheld 7x50s now seems unacceptably agitated.

This is now my "go-to" instrument for backyard observing. For those of you who are more interested in daytime use for birding or terrestrial use, they offer powerful magnification and bright, color-free performance.