Adapting the IS system from their line of EF lenses, the Canon 12x32 IS Image Stabilized Binoculars employ a lens-shift system using a combination of a vibration gyro-mechanism and microprocessors that detect and counter the appearance of hand-shake by moving the internal lens assembly to make the image appear steady. As a general rule, optics of this magnification and higher are extremely prone to the appearance of visible hand-shake, which interferes with clear and immersive views. Through the use of image stabilization, users can enjoy high-power observations without the distracting shake, or the need for tripods or other support systems normally required to achieve steady images.

Two IS modes allow the performance to be tailored to the situation: Normal IS is ideal for moving or multiple subjects, while Powered IS improves the stabilization when observing a single stationary subject. An intuitive two-button user interface makes choosing the mode simple and easy. The IS runs on two included AA batteries, and when not using the image stabilization, the optic will operate as a conventional pair of binoculars.

Optically, the binoculars are built with traditional Porro prisms, and an integrated field-flattener lens that corrects spherical aberration for distortion-free views, especially at the edges. Canon's proprietary Super Spectra Coating is used to limit color bias, lens flare and ghosting; while maximizing light transmission, color rendition, clarity, and contrast across the entire visible spectrum. With this new IS system, the close focus distance has been drastically reduced versus earlier models that use a different IS mechanism.

Lens-Shift Image Stabilization    Field-Flattener Lens System    Super Spectra Multi-Coated Optics    Normal and Powered IS Modes    Simple 2-Button User Interface    Large Center Focusing Wheel    Fold-Down Rubber Eyecups    Runs on Two AA Batteries    Weight: 27.5 Ounces

• 12x magnification
• 32mm objective lens
• Porro prism light path
• Fully multi-coated optics using Canon's proprietary Super Spectra Coating to limit color bias, lens flare and ghosting; while improving light transmission, color rendition, clarity, and contrast across the entire visible spectrum
• Doublet field-flattener lens corrects spherical aberration for distortion-free views, especially at the edges
• 7-element / 6-group objective lens configuration
• 5-element / 4-group eyepiece lens configuration
• 262-foot field of view at 1000 yards
• 6.6' close focus distance is an improvement over earlier IS models

• Lens-Shift image stabilization system uses a vibration gyro-mechanism, in conjunction with microprocessors, that detect and counter the appearance of hand-shake by moving the internal lens assembly horizontally and vertically, to make the image appear steady
• Powered Image Stabilization is a secondary IS system that improves the image stabilization when focused on a single subject
• ±1.0° correction angle
• Runs on two AA batteries

• Simple 2-button interface: Normal IS and Powered IS
• Large center focus wheel
• ±3 right eye dioptric correction
• 55-76mm interpupillary adjustment range
• Fold-down rubber eyecups for comfortable use with or without eyewear
• 14.5mm eye relief
• 2.7mm exit pupil

• Redesigned chassis is more ergonomic to fit more comfortably in the hand
• Slip-resistant rubber armoring provides a sure grip
• Weight: 27.5 ounces

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. What size is the Micro SD memory card?

A: This does not use a memory card

Q: 2. What diameter, type and manufacturere replacement lens covers can I use?

A: Please call Canon 800-652-2666 for replacement caps

Q: 3. why should I more for your latest product compared with the 12x36 IS 11 which is more powerful?

A: The 12x32 and older 12x36 have the same magnification, field of view, and eye relief. The big difference is the close focus, which is significantly improved on the 12x32. The 12x32 is 6.6 feet. The 12x36 IIs is 19.7 feet. I have the 12x36 IIs and it's annoying to find yourself too close to a bird to get a proper focus.

Q: 4. What is the country of manufacture?

A: Made in Japan

Q: 5. I have tried the 10x30s and I can focus them without my glasses for my very near sided eyes. Can I expec the same with the 12x36es?

A: They both has the same 14.5mm eye relief and +3 to -3 diopter so the focusing is the same.

Q: 6. Specs say no diopter adjustment. Just want to confirm as lower priced models do offer this. If true, what are the options?

A: The Canon 10x20 IS Image-Stabilized Binoculars do not have diopter adjustment, instead these stabilized binoculars feature a center focusing wheel.

Q: 7. Is the IS III outer coating made of the same rubber that the previous models had, which becomes a goo after contact with oils?

A: They feel like a form of rubber but I am not sure if they have the same coating as the earlier model. I have not had a issue with them as others have reported with the older model. They are just as I bought them 9 months ago, no change. The only oils that my binoculars have come in contact with would be from my hands, and my hands are never very oily by nature. Very amazing at the job they do.

Q: 8. Will the binoculars work if the IS batteries go flat. What type of batteries ?

A: This question arrives at an opportune time. We're on the west coast, birding. I love these binoculars for birding. To answer your questions, runs on two AA batteries. Binocs work without batteries, but the stabilization mechanism does not work without the batteries. The stabilization mechanism is one of the desired features of these binocs. We're thinking about buying a second pair, since we both want to use these binocs.

Q: 9. Does this product have threads for filters? If so, what size?

A: No filters and no threads.

Q: 10. Is the coating more stable on these than the original 10 X 30 or will it become gooey after 5 years?

A: Not time to see if coating will hold upHave 12x36After a couple years battery door brokeSent for repair canon advised me they would notFix problemSeveral hundred dollars wasted on my part