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Product guide

Pentax Papilio III 8.5×21 Close-Focus Binoculars

Pentax Papilio III binoculars combine close-focus viewing from about 50 cm with a weather-resistant design. The listing names an 8.5×21 model, but its magnification and zoom details conflict, so confirm the selected configuration if that figure matters to you.

At a glance

  • Designed for close-range observation from approximately 50 cm, including museum objects and nearby nature.
  • Manufacturer describes the construction as weather-resistant and suitable for rain, mist and splashes.
  • The listing also describes multi-coated optics and 15 mm eye relief.
Price
£147.51Save 18%

Reference price: £179.99

Price checked: 14 Nov 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

  • Close-focus capability is a useful distinction for viewing small details in galleries, gardens and nearby subjects.
  • Weather-resistant construction broadens the stated use beyond fair-weather outings.
  • The listed 295-gram weight and compact 21 mm objectives suit buyers looking for small binoculars to carry.

Technical specifications

19 specifications
Identity
BrandPentax
ModelPapilio III
ColourOlive
Age rangeAdult
Optics and focus
Objective lens diameter21 Millimetres
Focus typeManual Focus with Close Focus
Zoom ratio listed8,5x
Maximum magnification listed6.5
Prism typePorro Prism
Eye relief15.0
Exit-pupil diameter2.5 Millimeters
Relative brightness6.25
Field of view6.0
Apparent angle of view6 Degrees
CoatingMulti-Coated
Dimensions and installation
Mounting types listedStativmontage
Weight listed295 Grams
Materials and protection
Water resistance listedWater Resistant
Special featuresWeather Resistant, HD Processing

What to know before buying

Listing details to confirm

The listing conflicts on magnification: the title says 8.5×21, while its details give a maximum magnification of 6.5 and a zoom ratio of 8,5x. It also lists manual close focus and fixed focus in separate fields. Verify the selected model's magnification and focusing specification before buying. Weather resistance is not described as waterproofing.

What’s in the box

Included
  • Binoculars
  • Case
  • Strap
  • Eyepiece plug

Who is it for?

A good fit for

  • Museum and gallery visitors who want to inspect nearby details.
  • Nature watchers interested in flowers, insects and other subjects at close range.
  • People seeking compact binoculars for walks, concerts or sporting events, with close-focus use as a priority.

Less suited to

  • Buyers who need a confirmed magnification specification without first resolving the listing's conflicting figures.
  • Anyone requiring a stated waterproof rating or relying on binoculars for use in heavy rain.
Pentax Papilio III 8.5×21 Close-Focus Binoculars · photo 2
Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.6 / 5 · 38 ratings
  • 5 stars79%79%
  • 4 stars15%15%
  • 3 stars0%0%
  • 2 stars0%0%
  • 1 star6%6%

Customer feedback describes the binoculars positively and mentions zoom and close focusing. That is relevant for nearby subjects, but the listing's conflicting magnification figures make it worth confirming the configuration. Aggregate ratings are mostly positive, with a smaller one-star share, and do not explain the reasons behind individual ratings.

Positive themes

  • Customer feedback describes the binoculars as brilliant and mentions zoom functionality and close focusing.

Frequently asked questions

How close can the Papilio III focus?

The listing describes observation from approximately 50 cm. Customer feedback also mentions close focusing, but does not establish a precise minimum distance.

Is this model waterproof?

The listing calls it weather-resistant and says its construction is intended to limit water and moisture intrusion. It does not provide a waterproof rating.

What is the magnification?

The listing is inconsistent: the title says 8.5×21, while the detail fields give a maximum magnification of 6.5 and a zoom ratio of 8,5x. Confirm the exact configuration before purchase.

What comes in the box?

The stated contents are binoculars, a case, a strap and an eyepiece plug. Check the selected listing to confirm its package.

Pentax Papilio III 8.5×21 Close-Focus Binoculars · photo 3
Additional product photo 3

Alternative options

Product details in Markdown