Since Carl Zeiss handcrafted his first simple microscope in a small German workshop in 1847, the company that bears his name has grown into a world leader in the manufacture of optics for medical, industrial and sporting use. In the latter category, Zeiss riflescopes and binoculars enjoy a reputation as top-tier glass.
    Recent years have seen the company employ computer-aided design and advanced materials to realize often mutually exclusive attributes: light weight and optical flawlessness. That accomplishment is soundly demonstrated in the Victory binocular line. Originally offered in 7x42 mm, 8x42 mm, 10x42 mm, 8x56 mm and 10x56 mm sizes, it now includes the smallest and lightest Victorys yet: the 8x32 mm and 10x32 mm T* FLs.

The smallest and lightest binocular in Zeiss’ top-of-the-line Victory series is the 8x32 mm T* FL. Diopter adjustments are set simply by raising the focusing knob, to reveal a +/- scale, and then rotating it to index with a triangular indicator on the bridge (top). The eyecups (bottom) feature tactilely distinct settings.

    We had the opportunity to field test the 8x32 mm Victory FLs during a whitetail deer cull on Texas’ sprawling King Ranch, where their under-20-oz. weight went nearly unnoticed while worn around the neck during several long, hot days of glassing and shooting.
    The Victory FL benefits from a number of ergonomic and mechanical features. Inside, a polycarbonate chassis promotes precise optical alignment and low overall weight. Outside, trim rubber armoring protects the binocular and, with the addition of raised ridges on each barrel, enhances the user’s grip. Finer ridges around the central focusing knob facilitate fast, precise adjustments, advancing the full range—from 6 1/2 ft. to infinity—in one-and-one-fifth revolutions. The knob rotates easily and smoothly, but it offers enough resistance to retain its setting. Finally, counterclockwise rotation of the eyecups extends them to one of three tactilely distinct settings.
    Of course, at the top levels of price, attendant levels of optical quality are expected, and the FL does not disappoint. Compact Abbe-Koenig prisms, proprietary high-transmission coatings and extra-low-dispersion Schott fluoride glass—hence the FL designation — produce a crisp image.
    Resolution, as judged on improvised test targets, was excellent and proved a boon in making field evaluations of deer. Contrast, too, appeared excellent, rendering considerable detail in the shadows and allowing noticeable differentiation between various natural objects. No distortion or collimation imperfections were detected. In short, the FL exhibited outstanding optical performance.
    While it does not gather as much light as other models in the Victory line, the Zeiss Victory 8x32 mm T* FL, nonetheless, offers a bit more capability in that area than the 10x32 mm model and is more than adequate for general use during normal hunting hours. It is pricey, but it offers optical performance equaling or exceeding anything in its category.
    For our money, when the use demands the best compact, lightweight binocular available, the Victory 8x32 is an assuring choice.