Hawke Frontier ED X Gen 2 8x42 Binoculars Green

Key Features

• 8x magnification with 42mm objective lenses
• Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass
• Lanthanum ocular glass
• Dielectric-coated, phase-corrected BAK-4 roof prisms
• Field-flattening lenses
• Magnesium alloy chassis
• Waterproof and fogproof construction
• Replaceable twist-up eyecups

Hawke Frontier ED X Gen 2 8x42 Binoculars Green Summary

The Hawke Frontier ED X Gen 2 8x42 binoculars combine a bright 42mm optical system with steady 8x magnification for birdwatching, wildlife observation and nature enthusiasts. Larger objective lenses gather more light than the 34mm models, while field-flattening lenses help maintain sharpness across the frame for a more consistent viewing experience.

Positioned above Hawke’s Endurance range, the Gen 2 model combines ED glass, lanthanum ocular elements and dielectric-coated BAK-4 roof prisms with a lightweight magnesium alloy chassis. Waterproof, fogproof construction and an integrated tripod thread make these binoculars well suited to extended observation in a wide range of outdoor conditions.

Overview and Key Improvements

The Frontier ED X Gen 2 continues Hawke’s premium binocular range with a refined optical system and durable magnesium alloy construction. On the 42mm models, additional field-flattening lenses help maintain sharpness across the image while ED glass, lanthanum ocular elements, dielectric-coated BAK-4 roof prisms and fully multi-coated optics maximise light transmission, contrast and colour fidelity. Replaceable twist-up eyecups and water-repellent objective coatings improve long-term usability in the field.

Hawke Frontier ED X Gen 2 8x42 Binoculars Green In More Detail

Optical system

The Frontier ED X Gen 2 8x42 combines Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass, lanthanum ocular elements, dielectric-coated, phase-corrected BAK-4 roof prisms and a fully multi-coated optical system to maximise light transmission while maintaining sharp detail and natural colour. The wide-angle optics provide a broad field of view, while additional field-flattening lenses help maintain sharpness from the centre of the image towards the edges.  

Built for the field

A magnesium alloy chassis provides a durable yet well-balanced housing for regular outdoor use. Nitrogen-purged, waterproof and fogproof construction helps maintain reliable performance in changing weather, while water-repellent coatings on the objective lenses encourage rain and moisture to bead away from the optical surfaces. A built-in 1/4”-20 tripod mounting thread is also provided for longer observation sessions.  

Comfortable handling

Replaceable twist-up eyecups allow the binoculars to be adjusted for comfortable viewing with or without glasses, making them suitable for extended periods in the field. The 8x42 configuration combines a naturally steady image with the improved light-gathering ability of larger objective lenses, making it well suited to wildlife observation from woodland to open countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these binoculars suitable for glasses wearers?

Yes. The replaceable twist-up eyecups can be adjusted to provide comfortable viewing with or without glasses, helping you maintain the full field of view.

Can these binoculars be mounted on a tripod?

Yes. A built-in 1/4”-20 tripod thread is provided, making it easy to attach the binoculars to a compatible tripod adapter for extended observation sessions.

Why choose the 8x42 model over the 8x34 or 10x42 binocular?

The 8x42 model gathers more light than the 8x34 while maintaining the same naturally steady 8x magnification. Compared with the 10x42, it offers a wider field of view that can make locating and following moving wildlife easier. The 42mm models also include field-flattening lenses to help maintain edge-to-edge sharpness.

Are these binoculars fully waterproof?

Yes. They are waterproof and nitrogen-purged to help prevent internal fogging, making them suitable for use in changing outdoor weather conditions.

How do these compare with Hawke’s Endurance range?

The Frontier ED X Gen 2 sits above the Endurance range, combining ED glass, lanthanum ocular elements and dielectric-coated prisms to deliver brighter, sharper images with accurate colour, alongside a lightweight magnesium alloy chassis.

Are these binoculars good for birdwatching?

Yes. The combination of 8x magnification, larger 42mm objective lenses and field-flattening optics provides a bright, stable image that is well suited to birdwatching across a variety of habitats, particularly during longer observation sessions.

Hawke Frontier ED X Gen 2 8x42 Binoculars Specifications

What’s in the Box

• Hawke Frontier ED X Gen 2 8x42 Binoculars Green
• Protective carry case with strap
• Neck strap
• Stay-on lens covers

Specifications