Snypex Knight ED 10X50 binocular was reviewed and tested by Lt. Blaine Hall, patrol Lieutenant and SWAT Team Leader for a Colorado Police Department. In his view, these binoculars work great during surveillance and tactical operations. Clear identification is a critical component in law enforcement operations, and SNYPEX binoculars, especially in low light conditions, gave the officer an advantage over other binoculars he tested.
Lt. Hall was first introduced to Snypex Knight ED 10x50 binoculars at the 2014 Shot Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, through Gary Paul Johnston, a law enforcement and firearms writer.
”I tested the binoculars on an overcast and rainy day at the firing range. From the 50 yard line, I sighted in a patrol rifle and could easily see the bullet impact points on the target. The superior optical clarity in these conditions was excellent and immediately noticeable when compared to other binoculars I tested,” Hall said. “The Snypex binoculars also got wet due to the rain. However, after a week I noticed there was no fogging compromising the binoculars’ integrity.”
Hall found the clarity of Snypex glass outstanding, giving them a leg up over other binoculars he has used. He tested the binoculars primarily in cold weather conditions with temperatures in the low teens at night and low thirties during the day. He also tested the binoculars in sunny, overcast, rainy and snow conditions. This variety of conditions meant he was able to use the binoculars in all kinds of light conditions. During sunny conditions Hall found a slight, but noticeable, difference in positive clarity with the Snypex Knight ED binoculars. He was amazed at the optical clarity and light gathering properties of the Snypex binoculars.
Finally, Lt. Hall used the Snypex Knight ED indoors to test the advertised 1.5 meter close focus capabilities. He tried the binoculars in his office with the lights off and the door open. Ambient light from the main office filtered into the office, creating low light conditions. Using the binoculars from four feet away, he adjusted the focus and could clearly read the titles of the binders located on his bookshelf. He stepped out of his office into the main area, which was slightly lit, and could still read the binder titles on his bookshelf after focusing the binoculars. I was unable to focus the Meopta or Nikon binoculars to that close of a distance, he said. Because the binoculars are so adept at focusing on close range subjects, they are ideal for watching birds, butterflies, dragonflies, wildflowers, and insects.
“From a police and SWAT officer’s point of view the Snypex Knight ED binoculars are superior in their performance. This is especially true in low light operations. I would highly recommend this product to any officer or law enforcement agency,” Hall said. “These binoculars outclassed the Meopta and Nikon binoculars in low light, overcast, and night time conditions.”
Lt. Hall plans on using these binoculars during his fall hunting trips. He anticipates that they will help him site animals at sunrise and sunset, when they are most active.
Hall is a patrol lieutenant and SWAT Team Leader for a Colorado Police Department. Over his 17 year career, he has worked as a patrol officer, investigator, and supervisor. He has also served 11 years on the agency’s SWAT Team as an operator, sniper, entry team leader, and now as the vice commander of the team.
