Kowa Launches the New BD III-XD Series

Kowa BD III XD

Kowa introduces the BD III-XD, a new binocular series that builds on the popular BD II-XD series. The new series retains the optical performance of the XD lenses and wide field of view, but features an updated design with improved ergonomics, reduced weight, and several details that make the binoculars more comfortable to use during extended observation sessions. The BD III-XD series now includes seven models, ranging from the wide-angle 6.5x32 to the new 10x50 and 12x50 models for users seeking higher light transmission and greater range. The series is aimed at birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, hunters, and other users who want compact binoculars with high optical quality for a variety of outdoor uses.

XD Optics with Natural Color Reproduction
At the heart of the BD III-XD series are Kowa’s XD lenses with ED glass. The optics are designed to reduce chromatic aberration and deliver a sharp image with good contrast and natural color reproduction. The 32 mm and 42 mm models feature officially certified wide-angle optics according to ISO 14132-2, providing a wide and open field of view. This makes it easier to locate and track birds, wildlife, and other moving subjects in the field. The BD III-XD 6.5x32 has a field of view of 175 m at 1,000 m, while the 8x32 offers 153.9 m and the 10x32 offers 117.1 m. The larger 42 mm models have a field of view of 143.4 m for the 8x42 and 125.8 m for the 10x42.

Improved User Comfort
Kowa has retained the optical design from its predecessor but refined several features that affect the user experience in practice. The series now features new silicone eyecups, improved grip surfaces, a redesigned focus wheel, and a lighter body construction. Details such as the lens caps, rain cover, and carrying case have also been updated to make the binoculars easier to use and carry in everyday life. The Kowa BD III-XD features a magnesium alloy chassis, which offers a combination of low weight and excellent durability. Kowa’s KR protective coating on both the objective lenses and eyepieces helps repel water, dust, and dirt, making the lenses easier to clean.

Close Focus and Versatile Applications
Selected models in the series have a minimum focus distance of just 1.3 meters. This makes them suitable for everything from birdwatching and landscape photography to close-up studies of butterflies, dragonflies, and other subjects at short distances. The compact 32 mm models are ideal for users who prioritize light weight, a wide field of view, and ease of use. The 42 mm models offer a versatile balance between light transmission, size, and performance.

New 50 mm models for more light
A key new addition to the BD III-XD series is the two new 50 mm models: 10x50 and 12x50. The larger objective lenses provide better light transmission, making these models particularly well-suited for observations in low-light conditions, such as early in the morning or late in the evening. The 10x50 and 12x50 are designed for users who want greater range and brightness, but still want binoculars that are relatively compact and easy to handle for their class.

Prices and Shipping
The Kowa BD III-XD series will be officially launched on August 10, 2026, and will be available for delivery starting August 11, 2026.

Suggested Retail Price:
Kowa BD III 32-6.5 XD – 539 EUR incl. VAT.
Kowa BD III 32-8 XD – 549 EUR including VAT.
Kowa BD III 32-10 XD – 559 EUR including VAT.
Kowa BD III 42-8 XD – 599 EUR including VAT.
Kowa BD III 42-10 XD – 609 EUR including VAT.
Kowa BD III 50-10 XD – 689 EUR, including VAT.
Kowa BD III 50-12 XD – 699 EUR, including VAT.

For more information, please contact damian.garwolski@focusnordic.pl

Key Features
XD lenses with fluorite glass
New 10x50 and 12x50 models for better performance in low light
Lightweight magnesium chassis
Close-focus distance down to 1.3 m on select models
KR protective coating on objective lenses and eyepieces
New silicone eyecups Improved grip surfaces and redesigned focus wheel
Updated lens caps, rain cover, and carrying case