According to our research, the third most popular model in our Top 5 Minox Binoculars, is the Minox BL 15×56.
Similar to what we have done with the previous two popular models, we will talk about the various features and specification of this binocular and try to dissect each factor on why it is popular to users and hobbyists.
Product Description and Review
Binocular Design
The Minox BL series, which are made in Germany, are designed for extended use in the field. It is great for wildlife observation even in low light situations.
It is also ideal for observing objects at long distances. So if you’re into birding or hunting or if you are a wildlife enthusiasts, this is perfect for you!
In the next sections, we shall give you the details of each feature so you could see what’s in store for you when you buy the BL 15×56.
Allowable Operating Temperature
Well, this one is pretty basic but it’s important to know on what sort of temperature you can use this binocular.
Similar to the other two Minox binoculars we have reviewed, the BL 15×56 is also designed to operate on a temperature range of 14 °F to 122 °F (or -10 °C up to 50 °C) which is a pretty big range making this model applicable to most outdoor purposes.
Lens System
The BL 15×56 gives you excellent optical performance thanks to its lens system that comes fully multi-coated using Minox proprietary “M* Multi-Layer Lens Coating” with Phase-Corrected Prisms.
No matter where you are or what lighting you’re in, this binocular is awesome because of the 21 layers of optical coatings applied to all glass/air surfaces for maximum light transmission.
This results to high image resolution and contrast giving you neutral color rendition, clear views and stunningly bright images.
The Field of View (FOV) of the BL 15×56 is 234.6 feet at 1,000 yards (or 4.1°, or 71.5 meters at 1,000 meters).
It’s got a front lens diameter of 2.2 inches (56 mm) and with a magnification power of 15x, this makes an Exit Pupil Diameter of 0.28 inch (7.0 mm). The Close Distance Focus capability of this binocular is 23 feet (or 7.0 m).
Magnification
The BL 15×56 comes with a fix power (magnification) of 15x which means that you do not have the capability to vary its power.
The 15x means your view is magnified fifteen (15) times compare to when you view an object using just your eyes which makes this binocular ideal to view objects and things from long distances.
Body
The body of the BL 15×56, which is of the comfort bridge design, is really sturdy and yet construction is pretty lightweight considering it has a big front lens.
It has a metal focusing wheel with rubber ribs which makes it easy to use and adjust. There’s also a finger-felt marking for the infinity setting which enables user to quickly focus on the objects in view.
While the outside looks of this binocular is great, the inner part is awesome as well. The internal is Argon purged (better than nitrogen) to eliminate fogging and the entire optical assembly is sealed for waterproof performance down to a depth of 16.4 feet (or 5 meters).
Physical Dimension
The physical size of the BL 15×56 is 6.65 x 5.7 x 2.59 inches (196 x 145 x 66 mm) – that is, Height x Width x Depth – and weighs about 38.1 ounces (or 1080 grams). Considering it has a big front lens, this weight is pretty decent compare to other brands.
Other Features
The BL 15×56 comes with turnable eyecups which is ideal for eyeglass wearers. The turning or twisting action of the eyecups provide for an overall eye relief of 0.69 inch (17.4 mm). This is a pretty generous eye relief which makes it easier for those who wear glasses.
The wide carrying nylon strap is also a welcome feature as it makes it more comfortable to carry along. It also comes with a case and rainguard.
Another convenient thing is the built-in tripod adapter. When holding the binocular is getting a bit harder, you’ll be thankful that this binocular has this feature.
Other Technical Specifications:
Diopter adjustment: ± 3 dpt
Twilight number: 13.9
Advantages:
Here are some of the things we reckon are advantages of the BL 15×56:
- Great for hunting, birding and nature viewing
- Clear and crisp image, great optics
- German designed
- Reasonably cheap
- Pretty decent eye relief
- Waterproof to five (5) meters
- Minox total coverage warranty
Disadvantages:
- This binocular comes with a fix magnification power of 15x, you can’t adjust the magnification
- Some people might find this a little heavy, with its weight of just over 1 kg, but that can be easily remedied by using a binocular harness or a strap.
User Reviews and Feedback
Following are the feedback from users who have used the Minox BL 15×56. It is always good to hear the experience of others which come from their actual use of a certain product. Let’s hear them out:
- “These are indeed fine optics! This binocular has wonderful resolution, clarity and brightness. The quality of the lens really shows!
- “For those of you, who are like me, that don’t have deep pockets for expensive brands, this Minox BL 15×56 are awesome and great for the budget! You will not be disappointed with this great product and shipping was very fast too!!!”
- “I compared this with several well-known binocular models and I could not believe how crisp they were at dusk when I used them to spot deer, elk and moose on my private property.”
- “This is an amazing pair of binoculars… They are so much lighter than the other 15x’s that I’ve tried.”
With these reviews and comments from users, you are sure that you are getting a highly-rated product with high-quality.
Summary & Conclusion
The Minox BL 15×56 model is your ideal binocular for outdoor activities. It is designed to be a perfect hunting companion or for observing nature whether at moonlight or at dawn.
With its great optical quality and performance, the price-to-performance ratio of this binocular is very attractive and considering that users rated it pretty high, you’ll be rest assured that you’re buying a product that has outstanding quality!
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE BL 15×56 PRODUCT PAGE.
If, for any reason, you do not like the BL 15×56, click here to go back to our listing of the Top 5 Minox binoculars and have a look at the other binoculars in our list.