Magnification: 8X
Power Variability: Fixed
Objective Diameter: 25 mm
Close Focus Distance: 14.10 feet
Dimensions: 4.3 (L) inches
Weight: 12.7 ounces
Field of View: 337 feet/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 15 mm/ 3.13 mm
Optics Coatings: Fully Multi-Coated
Glass: BAK-4
Prism System: Porro
Focus System: Center
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes/Yes
Eye cups: Twist up
Tripod adaptable: No
Rangefinder: No
Best Uses: Hunting, Birdwatching, Wildlife Observation, Event Observation
Leupold BX-1 Rogue Binoculars
This compact Leupold BX-1 Rogue 8X25 is small in size but large in quality. It has fully multi-coated lenses, is completely waterproof and fog-proof, and is an extremely light weight binocular that's been made with the Synergy Built guarantee.
Online, this model has a decent amount of reviews giving the mini binocular has a fantastic rating. This little thing sure is big in the online marketplace.
Since I am attempting to be thorough, it may not be surprising that I would choose to review the smallest binocular of Leupold's compact series. While I could've gone with any of the other models in the Rogue series, the 8X25 proved to be most popular out of the lot.
So, how has this little guy earned such a big reputation? Here's our revealing Q&A that tells how this compact binocular has a reputation that precedes itself.
Pros:
- Price
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Wide field of view
- Fully weatherproof
Cons:
- Poor optics
BX-1 Rogue 8x25 Binocular Q&A:
How is this Rogue 8x25 binocular different to the compact Yosemite?
If you're in the binocular market looking to buy compact Leupold binoculars, then you're definitely going to come across these two series, and it mightn't be a black and white decision in choosing which one you want. Let me inform you of the differences.
Appearance. While the binoculars both have the porro prism design, this Rogue is more on the unattractive and bulky side and the Yosemite has a unique "clamshell" design. However, the Rogue has a slightly smaller length of 4.3 inches and is lighter, weighing in at 12.7 ounces.
You'll also notice the higher magnifications and larger objective lens sizes that's available with the Rogue series versus the Yosemite line. They are the Rogue 8X42, 8X50, 10X25, 10X42, and the 10X50.
The Rogues are weatherproof, which is impressive for a porro prism binocular. They've also been purged with Leupold's proprietary Nitrogen gas fill process for ultimate fog-proof-ability that is something the Yosemites lack.
Which one's cheaper? The Rogue 8X25.
What are the advantages of the porro prism design?
The benefits of porro prisms is that they can be made to be optically superior to roof prisms. They can provide brighter images because there's less light being lost in the light path from the objective lenses to the ocular lenses. Less reflections are a consequential benefit in a porro prism versus a roof prism.
They also don't need phase corrected coatings in order to work like roof prisms do. This brings down a lot of the cost when manufacturing and putting together the prism assembly. Porro prism binoculars are also known for being heavier and bigger than roof prisms, but this BX-1 Rogue has the upper hand because it's a very compact binocular.
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Are there any other finishes available with the Rogue series?
As far as this Rogue 8X25 model goes, there's only the black finish that's available, and for a low price of about $85 online. The 8X42 and 10X50 models are available with the Mossy Oak Break-Up finish, but you'll have to remember that this drives up the cost, not just for the showy finish, but for the extra magnification and larger objective lens size too.
Are Leupold's Rogue 8x25 binoculars compact?
This particular 8X25 and the 10X25 binoculars are compact units. They're only 4.3 inches in length and they weigh a light 12.7 ounces. They're the ideal-sized, compact binocular that'll fit in the pocket of your camo vest and are super-light weight to tote around.
However, not all of the Rogue binoculars share this compact or reverse porro prism design.
The other models have the traditional porro prism design. The largest one is the BX-1 Rogue 10X50 that weighs a whopping 33 ounces and is 7 inches in length. The next heifer is the BX-1 Rogue 8X50 that weighs 29.7 ounces and is a long 7.3 inches in length.
The Rogue is a versatile series that provides a wide range of options for the hunter that's in the market for a new and affordable binocular.
But, if you need even more options, you might want to check out our complete list of reviews which include compact hunting binoculars from competing brands.
Noteworthy Features:
- Twist up eye cups and wide IPD range provides a true custom fit for any user
- BAK-4 prisms for leading-industry glass quality
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide maximum light transmission for bright, clear images
- Small, compact, and light weight design for all-purpose use
- Fully waterproof and fog-proof with Leupold's proprietary Nitrogen fill process
- Manufactured under the Synergy Built project
- Armored body for heavy use and easy gripping
- Backed by Leupold's Full or Limited Lifetime Guarantee
Our Verdict on the Leupold Rogue 8x25 Binoculars
To glass it up, the Leupold BX-1 Rogue 8X25 binoculars will be a good fit for any outdoorsman. They're small, lightweight, and fully capable of meeting your glassing expectations. However, as with all brands and products, there happens to be a few binoculars that missed quality control. Optical aberrations and difficulty focusing were the primary optic complaints on the Rogue. Fortunately, it doesn't seem to be the trend.
If you're after the Rogue for its compact specs, you really should give the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10X25 a look. It's stylish roof prism construction and lightweight specs make it even more attractive than the Rogue. But, you will have to fork out almost twice the amount of cash for the Legend. Besides, do you consider yourself a bad boy Rogue or a Herculean Legend? Your optic might say more about you than you think it does.
In the end, Leupold aims to please with high quality and high performing optics. The Rogue, while ugly as sin (no reflection on its performance), will serve you proud in the field. Give it a chance, and it might just be your beauty in disguise. It's not what's on the outside that counts, right?
Further Reading
