Maven C.1 8 x 42 Binoculars Review

Moving Up to Mid-Range Maven C.1 Binoculars Clears Things Up

From jobsite security to weekend outings, binoculars serve in a ton of helpful scenarios. Entry-level models are helpful, but is it really worth stepping up in price to something better? We’ve been using Maven C.1 binoculars as a replacement for our normal daily use set to find out.

Pros

• Excellent clarity
• Bright, high-contrast viewing
• Waterproof and fog-proof
• Nitrogen-filled
• IPX6 rating
• Unconditional lifetime warranty, even if it’s your fault

Cons

• No major drawbacks

Maven C.1 Binoculars

If you’re moving up from entry-level binoculars, the first thing you’re going to notice when you look through a pair of Maven C.1 binoculars is how bright and clear the image is. It’s very much like making the jump from standard 480 resolution TVs to 1080p (if you’re old enough to remember that).

For our tests, we chose the Maven C.1 12 x 42, giving us better magnification at the cost of some field of view and a little light transmission. Still, at 89%, you’re getting more light through the lenses than less expensive models and that’s what helps keep the brightness up. It’s particularly helpful in the early morning/late evening or under heavy cloud cover.

The boost in clarity is all about the glass. It starts with an ED glass lens (3 groups of 4 elements) and Schmidt-Pechan prisms with dielectric coatings. From there, the lenses take on scratch- and oil-resistant coatings.

The frame is constructed from polymer and then filled with nitrogen gas. It ends up with an IPX6 pressure rating, keeping water out at 1 meter deep for 5 minutes.

At 24.5 oz (24 oz for the 8x model), these aren’t as light as the entry-level binoculars you might be used to. Even with a little extra heft, Maven C.1 binoculars are well-balanced and have a quality feel to them.

What’s in the Box?

• Binoculars
• Lens caps
• Binoculars bag
• Neck strap
• Microfiber cleaning cloth

Price

Maven C.1 binoculars run $325 – $375, depending on which magnification you choose. They’re available on Amazon with free two-day shipping for Prime members.

Maven C.1 Binoculars Comparison Chart

If They’re So Good, Why Spend More?

For many of us, Maven C.1 binoculars have enough light transmission and clarity to cover everything we’ll ever need. Remember I said it was like moving up to 1080p?

Just like you can move up to 4K, you can still get higher quality from the next level of binoculars.

Doing that increases your light transmission, gets you colors that are more true, bumps the clarity even more, and/or takes you to a higher IP rating. There are some other benefits as well.

The Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about moving up to or replacing your mid-range binoculars, you really need to put the Maven C.1 on your list. Against similar models from Nikon, Bushnell, Barska, and others, I think Maven gives you better quality.

If you’re still not convinced, Maven’s warranty might just be the kicker. They’ll cover your binoculars unconditionally for life, no matter where or when you bought them, even if the damage is your fault.

Maven C.1 Binoculars Specifications

• Model: Maven C.1
• Magnification: 8x, 10x, 12x (tested)
• Objective Lens: 42mm
• Size: 5.7 in
• Weight: 24.0 – 24.5 oz
• Frame Material: Polymer
• Lens Material: ED glass
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Price: $325 – $375

Check out more Maven gear or order direct from their website.