Building on the success of the original Ultravid HD, Leica's 10x50 Ultravid HD-Plus Binocular adds improved technologies and materials to create an optic with bright and clear images across the entire field of view. The full-size HD-Plus delivers enhanced contrast and true color fidelity, with virtually zero distortion, even in low-light conditions. Helping to compensate for the visually distracting hand shake common with using 10x and greater optics, is a wide 67° apparent viewing angle. This allows the use of high-magnification binoculars without the need for stabilization equipment like harnesses or tripods, although high-powered binoculars could always benefit from these devices.
Leica uses specially formulated SCHOTT HT extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, which increases light transmission especially in the blue-violet light band, improves color fidelity, and enhances low-light performance. Scratch- and abrasion-resistant High Durable Coating (HDC) and hydrophobic AquaDura coating on the outer lenses protect surfaces and cause water and oil to bead off for easier cleaning and clearer vision. The roof prisms feature P40 phase correction and proprietary High Lux System (HLS) coatings. These coatings virtually eliminate chromatic aberration for enhanced color rendition and increased contrast and overall image sharpness.
Complementing the optical performance are uncompromising construction details. To reduce user fatigue during long glassing sessions, the chassis is made of a lightweight yet durable magnesium alloy, with a wear-resistant titanium center hinge axle. The optical tubes are nitrogen filled for fogproof performance and sealed to make the binocular submersible to 16.4' or 0.5 bar of pressure. Ergonomic thumb indents on the bottom of the binocular coupled with protective rubber armoring provide a comfortable slip-resistant grip. A lubrication-free focus system provides fast and precise focusing, with PETP-Discs to provide smooth movement throughout the broad operating temperature range.