Magnification: 10X
Power Variability: Fixed
Objective Diameter: 42 mm
Close Focus Distance: 8 feet
Dimensions: 5.5" (L)
Weight: 23.5 oz
Field of View: 340 feet/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 18 mm/4.2 mm
Optics Coatings: Fully multi-coated
Glass: BAK-4
Prism System: Roof
Focus System: Center
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes/Yes
Eye cups: Twist-up
Tripod adaptable: Yes
Rangefinder: No
Best Uses: Hunting, For the Range, Birdwatching, Wildlife Observation
Update: Bushnell has discontinued these binoculars but you can check out the updated model, the Legend 10x42 here. Alternatively, check out some other great binoculars in the under $200 price range here.
Bushnell 10x42 Legend L-Series Binoculars Review
Leave it to Bushnell to create feature-filled binoculars for the lowest prices possible. The Legend E, L, and M series are all fantastic binoculars with way more perks than what the prices suggest.
First off, you're dealing with a lightweight, magnesium chassis with smooth contact grips in either the black or Realtree Xtra finishes. The entire Legend Series features Bushnell's patented RainGuard HD coatings for permanent protection in any type of weather that can render your binoculars useless.
However, the Legend L series binoculars take things a step further with its ED and lead-free glass, ultra wide band coatings, and wider field of view. With long eye relief, improved eyecup resistance, and a locking diopter, you'll be ready to jump into the hunt rain or shine.
The majority of buyers love the Legend L binoculars. When it comes to optical quality, it's all there and there's no complaint. However, it seems the objective lens caps come loose easily and can get lost, but this issue isn't specific to Bushnell. Many cheap lens caps have this problem.
A more legitimate complaint are the eyecups coming off the metal housing. With this, many buyers have DIY-ed their eyecups in place with glue, but it seems to be a reoccurring problem. But, in the end, the majority of buyers have the majority rule, and they say the Legend binoculars have champion glass quality that's definitely worth the low price!
Pros:
- Price
- ED & lead-free glass
- Ultra wide field of view
- Fully weatherproof
- Available in Realtree Xtra
Cons:
- Loose eyecups
- Loose lens caps
Bushnell Legend L-Series 10X42 Q&A:
What are Ultra Wide Band Coatings?
An ultra wide band coating is different to fully multi-coated coatings. While they're both essentially applied to the lenses for anti-reflective qualities, the ultra wide band coatings are more detailed. Each lens in the prism assembly is custom coated with this anti-reflective formula to ensure that each lens can efficiently transmit maximum light back to the eyepiece. The result is optimum brightness and true color fidelity without eye strain.
Do the Legend L Binoculars have Dielectric Coatings?
No. This prism-specific coating is a feature that's reserved for the Legend M Series, the premium line for the entire Legend Series.
What is ED Prime Glass?
This feature starts with the Legend L Series, and it's a premium feature that you typically never see on a binocular in this price range.
The prism glass is made with extra-low dispersion elements that include fluorite crystals to reduce chromatic aberration. Light dispersion across the focal length of the optic is kept to a minimum to keep lightwaves in phase.
This results in pristine, color-true, and sharp images from close up glassing to far away.
What is Bushnell's RainGuard HD?
RainGuard HD is an external lens coating that protects image quality by repelling snow, rain, condensation, and sleet. Lenses without this sort of coating will obstruct your lenses causing poor glassing. It can also cause your optic to "fog" up. The RainGuard HD coatings cause the debris to bead up to prevent scattering light within the optic plane. It's a patented and permanent coating that protects your lenses and your glassing experience.
What are the Differences Between the Legend Binoculars in the Series?
The Legend Series consists of three lines: E, L, and M. The E is the entry-level line that features RainGuard HD and a magnesium chassis. As the series moves it, it retains all the features that the lower lines sport. The L also includes ED glass and a locking diopter. The M also includes an open bridge design and dielectric coatings.
What Gas is used to Weatherproof the Legend Binocular?
This binocular uses argon gas to fully waterproof and fogproof the optic. Argon gas is a step above traditional nitrogen purging for weatherproof integrity.
Where are the Bushnell L Series Binoculars Made?
The Legend L Series are made in China according to strict manufacturing regulations mandated by the United States and Bushnell.
What Accessories come with the 10x42 L Series Binocular Purchase?
You can expect the Legend binoculars, carry case, neck strap, objective lens covers, and a lens cloth.
Noteworthy Features:
- Bulletproof 100% Money Back Guarantee
- High definition ED glass
- Ultra wide band coatings and field of view
- Secure and locking diopter mechanism
- Tripod adaptable
Our Verdict on the Legend L-Series Binoculars
To glass it up, the Bushnell Legend L-Series 10x42 binoculars are definitely worth the buy. They're so cheap for the amount of features they sport, and you won't be disappointed. You might have to rig a few things to keep your binocular intact for the long run, but with what you end up paying, you're still getting a ton of value from the feature-packed optic.
However, if you want even more features within a reasonable price range that you can afford, you should glass by the Bushnell Fusion 1-Mile ARC binoculars. They're a steal compared to the extravagant prices that their equal counterparts are going for in the market. You won't be left wanting if you want it all!
The Legend L binoculars are too good to pass up if you want everything while spending the least amount of money as possible. Bushnell is good at providing that. After all, it's their expertise.
Update: Bushnell has discontinued these binoculars but you can check out the updated model, the Legend 10x42 here. Alternatively, check out some other great binoculars in the under $200 price range here.
Further Reading
I've had the exact same problems with eye and lens caps, PLUS the focusing adjustment barrel has become wobbly, and there does not seem any way to tighten them. I pretty much don't want to use them any more, they seem as high maintenance as my European car...
Great picture but, overall, rather disappointing and not a good buy.
Hi Matt, thank you for sharing your experience with the Legend binos. The eye and lens caps are a common complaint about them. When it comes to the focus mechanism, there are DIY ways to trouble-shoot (can't guarantee that they will work), but it will likely void the warranty. I believe that they're covered under Bushnell's No Questions Asked Lifetime warranty. You don't need a receipt or product registration. I think those issues are definitely worth submitting a repair form to them. Thanks for sharing Matt!