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The Japanese company Kowa has just announced the release of the third generation of its popular BD XD binocular series. While the 32 mm and 42 mm objective lens models have received what is essentially a slight facelift, the major highlight is the introduction of new 50 mm objective models to the lineup.

The Kowa BD II-XD series was unveiled in August 2019 and caught widespread attention due to several key features. These were sleek instruments equipped with a Schmidt-Pechan prism system, featuring everything expected from modern high-end binoculars. They incorporated low-dispersion ED glass in the objective lenses, C3 dielectric and phase coatings on the prisms, and KR water/dirt-repellent coatings on the outer lens surfaces.

The bodies were made of magnesium alloy composites, nitrogen-filled, and fully waterproof. To top it off, the binoculars impressed with wide fields of view and remarkably close minimum focusing distances. The standout star of the range was the wide-angle 6.5x32 model.

The new BD III-XD binoculars retain all the strengths of their predecessors while slightly reducing both size and weight. All other core specifications remain unchanged.

The biggest news, however, is the addition of the 10x50 and 12x50 models to the lineup. They fit perfectly into the ethos of the BD line: lightweight (725–730 g), compact (160×134×57 mm), and featuring wide fields of view (6.6° for the 10x50 model and 5.8° for the 12x50), along with a comfortable eye relief of 17–17.5 mm.

The buyer receives a soft case, neck strap, tethered objective lens covers, and a rainguard (ocular lens cover) included in the box.

The full specifications and pictures of all new BD III-XD series binoculars are now available in our database.

PRESS RELEASE

Kowa Refines a Favourite: Introducing the New BD III-XD Binocular Series

When Kowa launched the original BD II-XD, it quickly established itself as one of the strongest performers in the mid-range binocular market. Wide-angle optics, premium XD lenses and exceptional value made it a favourite among birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts looking for high-end performance without the premium price tag.

Now, Kowa introduces its successor.

Rather than reinventing a winning formula, the new BD III-XD builds upon everything that made its predecessor so successful, refining the details that matter most to users in the field. The result is a binocular family that retains its class-leading optical performance while delivering a noticeably more comfortable and refined viewing experience.

At the heart of every BD III-XD are Kowa’s renowned XD (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses, manufactured using fluorite-rich ED glass to minimise chromatic aberration and produce exceptionally sharp images with outstanding contrast and natural colour reproduction. Combined with officially certified wide-angle optics across the 32 and 42mm models, the BD III-XD offers an immersive viewing experience that makes locating and following birds and wildlife faster and more intuitive.

The series continues to stand apart through features often reserved for far more expensive binoculars. A lightweight magnesium alloy chassis keeps weight to a minimum without sacrificing durability, while an impressive close focus distance of just 1.3 metres on selected models allows users to appreciate butterflies, dragonflies and other close-range subjects in remarkable detail. Kowa’s KR protective coating on both objective lenses and eyepieces actively repels water, dust and dirt, helping maintain a clearer view while making cleaning easier after time spent outdoors.

While the optical system remains unchanged, Kowa has carefully refined almost every point of user interaction. New silicone eyecups, improved grip textures, a redesigned focus wheel and lighter body construction all combine to create a binocular that feels noticeably more comfortable during extended periods of observation. Even small details, such as redesigned objective lens caps, a new rainguard and an updated carrying case, have been rethought to improve everyday usability.

Another significant addition to the BD III-XD family is the introduction of two new 50 mm models. Available in 10×50 and 12×50, these larger objective binoculars extend the range into low-light applications, offering brighter views at dawn and dusk while remaining impressively compact thanks to Kowa’s advanced optical design. They provide an excellent option for hunters, wildlife observers and anyone seeking maximum brightness without carrying traditionally bulky large-objective binoculars.

The expanded family now spans seven models, from the incredibly wide-angle 6.5×32, offering one of the widest fields of view available on the market, through compact 32 mm and versatile 42 mm configurations, to the new high-performance 50 mm models. This broader line-up allows users to choose the ideal balance of portability, magnification and brightness while maintaining the same premium optical experience throughout the range.

The BD III-XD also adopts Kowa’s latest binocular design language, first introduced with the new SV III series, creating a cleaner, more consistent appearance across the company’s expanding binocular portfolio. The refined styling is matched by an equally comprehensive marketing launch, including new photography, video content, point-of-sale materials and dealer support designed to introduce the range to both existing Kowa users and newcomers alike.

With the BD III-XD, Kowa hasn’t changed what made the original so highly regarded. Instead, it has focused on refining every detail surrounding that outstanding optical performance. The result is a binocular family that continues to deliver premium features where they matter most, wide-angle viewing, exceptional image quality, compact magnesium construction and outstanding value, now wrapped in an even more polished and user-friendly package