Opticron Natura WA ED 8×42

Guest Review

By Daniel Johnson (Published in BTO News Spring 2026)

For many years when growing up, I used my trusted old birthday-present pair of binoculars, which were bought for £50 and weighed a lot more than newer models do now. When I started my job at BTO, I was introduced to a world of fine optics and the Opticron Natura WA ED 8×42 binoculars hail from this.

Recently, I had the joy of taking this model out to my local park, Castle Hill in Thetford. The location is one of the best places to test optics, as the view from the top is exceptional. Having followed the very simple instructions provided to adjust the pair to my eyes, I was able to receive a very clear picture straight away. The specifications meant I had a wide field of view, which was particularly beneficial when looking out at a broad landscape.

I was able to detect a zooming Kestrel, with the binoculars focusing very quickly on a moving object, and could see the colour and detail with perfect clarity. The adjustable eye cups are a useful addition, allowing for eye comfort when fully extended or for wearing glasses when fully retracted. At ground level, I was able to see the same Kestrel I had detected flying perched on a branch and a Treecreeper moving up the tree. The level of detail on a static image was fantastic, with the extended eye cups helping to keep out the sunlight shining behind me and focus on the birds in front.

A GREAT ALL-ROUNDER

At 743 g, the Natura WA EDs are not the lightest pair of binoculars available. As with many Opticron optics, they come with a robust, durable neoprene strap, which is always helpful when travelling through a site or climbing the 92 steps to get to the top of Castle Hill. They are also easily portable in a compact bag that sits around the shoulder.

With the usual stylish design from Opticron, they have a sleek finish, and the all-black colouration works well if camouflage is necessary. The textured rubber on top also assists with grip at colder times of the day and year.

When the weather takes a turn for the worse (as it inevitably does in the UK) as you are mid walk, your experience will not be ruined, as the binoculars are waterproof and come with great lens caps that will protect the optics during torrential downpours.

For £329, I would recommend this pair of binoculars as a reliable option to have and to enjoy. With their adaptable nature, capturing clear images of birds in flight and on the ground or in trees, they are a great all-around option.