Carson Optics Monocular 6x18mm

When I ordered this unit it was advertised on BH Photo as 7x18mm meaning 7x power and 18mm objective aperture. However, for whatever reason, Carson now only shows on its website a 6x18mm version implying the telescopic power has been reduced. Minimum focus of my particular unit is approximately 20" (versus the advertised 10"), but that is okay for me personally. The received unit otherwise does what is advertised/intended, but be warned that the field of view is ultimately quite narrow.

My primary reason for buying this is to have it in my pocket or backpack when hiking (is that a bear?). I give it a 5-star rating for a few reasons. It is very compact, very lightweight, and the optics are quite nice for such an affordable instrument. I also like the fact that it will focus so close, making it useful to read, for example, the fine print on any number of things. Of course it won't perform like much larger, heavier telescopes or binoculars, but considering the size/price, I think it's a great item.

Deliver is fast about 7-8days considering states to Singapore. Product quality considered good for its price and country of manufacture, Peoples Republic of China. Almost same function as Pentax Papillon Buttery which i bought that cost 5 times more akeen to driving a mustang under heavy present of traffic lights.

Perfect for the naturalist on the go. I use mine to observe birds around campus, view the moon, the moons of Jupiter, the Andromeda galaxy, and small objects like insect larvae or freshwater crustaceans. Decent resolution down to around 100 ??m and clear viewing overall. I only use it with abundant light, as the aperture is a bit small. I can view with my glasses on (just barely) as the eye relief is modest. Definitely worth the money.

I use this item to get close-up views of paintings from 2-3 feet away, which saves you from leaning too close to a painting and having the security guards freak out on you. Take this to the art gallery next time you visit and you'll be amazed. I've used it all over Europe and North America and the detail it gives you of a painting is astonishing. I've even loaned this to art professors who'd never heard of it and they were amazed.