Bushnell Featherlight 10x50 Wide Field

FPO version

Mfr: Fuji Photo Optical (FPO)

Date: circa late 1950's

AFOV: ~70 degrees

TFOV: 7 degrees

Eye Relief: 14mm

Prisms: low index

Weight: ~1000g

Serial Number: 572248

Despite the use of low index prisms, causing obvious vignetting, this model gives very nice wide angle views, much like a Rangemaster.   It compares favorably with the later Bushnell Custom 10x50, which although has better construction, is also much heavier.  There are no J- marks on this sample, but there is an FPO logo on the rear hinge cap.

USOL Version

Mfr: J-B138, J-E4

Date: circa 1960

AFOV: ~72 degrees

TFOV: 7 degrees 10'

Eye Relief: ~13mm

Prisms: high index

Weight: ~970g

Serial Number: X560872

This version of the Featherlight appears to be an intermediary model in the evolution between the original Featherlight made by FPO and the later Featherlight II series.  It has a U.S.O.L logo on the hinge end cap and the same J- markings as the Featherlight II models.  There are markings on the objective rings but none on the prism covers.  The particular sample shown has individual focus eyepieces with fixed hard eyecups.  The coatings have a brownish-yellow tint.  Although externally similar to the FPO version, I do not believe that the optics are identical.  The eye lens on this model is smaller than on the FPO and the field of view is slightly larger.  To me, the viewing is not as comfortable as with the FPO, though much better if the eyecups are removed.  This model does have the advantages of high index prisms and better baffling, with only minor light leaks in the image.  The wider field is so slight as to be barely noticeable.  Both models give very good wide field views and each has its advantages.