I recieved the 25x100 Zhumell binoculars 2 weeks ago. The first thing I would like to say is how impressed I was at the construction, and the aluminum case they came with. I have them mounted on the Paragon Plus HXD tripod purchased from Orion. This is a perfect combination for the very smooth motions in both axis. My first test with the binoculars were Saturn and Jupiter. Yes the binoculars showed all 4 moons of Jupiter as well as the 2 cloud bands with pinpoint accuracy with the moons. Then I observed Saturn which showed the ring structure of the planet. Remember I am observing under 4 annoying street lights as I am not at a dark sky location. Next was M42 the Orion Nebula WOW! this was a real treat with green nebulosity and pinpoint stars in the FOV. Then I observed M13 this was very impressive with a round cotton ball green patch of stars with the core showing brighter. The binoculars come with a 25 year no fault guarantee that I could not refuse. WOW! to get these monsters under dark skies at Upham NM at our next star party will be a big Event for observing Galaxies, Nebula, Globular clusters etc. For a total price including the tripod for $443.00 I have a great setup indeed. Rick.... Clear Dark Skies

Who did you purchase these from and what is the country of their manufacture? Did the binoculars come from Orion as well?

I would wager at this price they cannot be of Japanese manufacture. At this price they are unquestionably Chinese. I know some of Orion's binoculars of smaller aperture are Japanese. I recently purchased Celestron 25X100s and am debating a return. The "quality" seems very minimal. I haven't had them on a sufficient tripod or under a dark sky as yet though and need to do a bit more testing. The sky has not been very cooperative of late either.

I'm almost certain that he must be referring to these, the Zhumell "Tachyon" 25x100:

http://www.zhumell.com/html/detail.asp?PID=18147

I agree that at that price they must be of Chinese origin. He'll have to say where he bought them.

Ed Cannon - Austin, Texas, USA

I bought the binoculars at www.opticsplanet.com Yes I know that they are not APO ED expensive binoculars, but I am very satisfied with the optical quality.

well i belive they will fit the bill for most, i am thinking about getting me a pair i have the 20x80 zhumell which are pretty good but thinking about the extra 20mm lens and 5 percent more mag i wanted to see how these fair out........

Rick,

Your were one of the more fortunate ones, others were not so lucky with their purchases.

http://cs.astronomy.com/asycs/forums/t/34013.aspx

Just for comparison:

Oberwerk 25x100mm CLICK HERE