Kite Optics 16 x 42 APC Stabilized ED Binoculars - KOST1642ED
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- SKU KIT-KOST1642ED

Kite Optics 16x42 Stabilized APC ED Binoculars
The Kite Optics APC 42 ED binoculars features a premium 42 mm ED optical system, delivering the finest image ever achieved in 42 mm stabilized binoculars. Razor-sharp detail and true-to-life colour reproduction set a new standard in stabilized visual performance. Compact, lightweight and perfectly balanced, it offers exceptional comfort and control in the hand — even during extended use.
HYBRID POWER
The APC 42 ED combines hybrid power flexibility with industry-leading efficiency. Use standard alkaline or lithium AAA batteries, or the included USB-C rechargeable Li-ion cells — a unique advantage in its class. Powered by KITE’s ultra-efficient prism gimbal stabilization, enhanced by intelligent APC auto-sleep when worn, and supported by an integrated spare battery compartment, it delivers up to a year of use on a single set of batteries.
BUILT TO LAST, BACKED FOREVER
The APC 42 ED is engineered for long-term reliability and covered by a limited lifetime warranty — including its electronic stabilization system. This exceptional level of confidence is made possible by precision manufacturing in Japan and dedicated service facilities in Belgium, built on over 40 years of KITE’s expertise in optics and its pioneering role in image stabilization. At our workshops in Belgium, every stabilized optic can be inspected, serviced and repaired by specialized technicians — ensuring your binoculars remain reliable for decades to come.
SMARTFLOW
SMARTFLOW is KITE’s unique stabilization algorithm designed to balance large motion compensation with ultra-steady image locking. The algorithm, that is programmed in the KT 2.0 and KT 3.0 CPU and Software, dynamically adapts in real time, absorbing wind, hand movement and panning, while delivering a rock-solid image during static observation. The result is a perfectly controlled, natural stabilization behavior in every situation, even at high magnification.
KT 3.0 PROCESSOR & SOFTWARE
With the APC 42 ED, you’ll encounter an unmatched level of immersion, feeling as though you’re right there with the object you’re observing. Thanks to the increased precision of KDGS-2, KITE OPTICS takes a significant leap forward in advancing its software. KT 3.0 delivers a unique viewing experience that mirrors the cognitive and visual patterns of the mind, effectively making the sensation of looking through binoculars vanish.
Specifications of all three APC 42mm ED Stabilized Binoculars:
| SPECIFICATIONS | APC STABILIZED 12X42 ED AAA | APC STABILIZED 16X42 ED AAA | APC STABILIZED 20X42 ED AAA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnification | 12x | 16x | 20x |
| Objective lens diameter (mm) | 42 | 42 | 42 |
| ED optical system | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Exit pupil (mm) | 3.5 | 2.62 | 2.1 |
| Min. close focus (ft) | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9.5 |
| Field of view (ft/1000yds) | 249 | 239.5 | 197 |
| Field of view (degrees) | 4.35 | 4.15 | 3.4 |
| Apparent field of view (degrees) | 51.6 | 66.5 | 68 |
| Eye relief (mm) | 18 | 15.5 | 15.3 |
| Interpupillary distance (mm) | 72-56 | 72-56 | 72-56 |
| Height | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 |
| Width (in) | 5.1 | 5.1 | 5.1 |
| Weight (oz) | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| Twilight factor | 22.4 | 25.9 | 29.0 |
| Dioptric compensation (+/-) | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Waterproof | IPX7 | IPX7 | IPX7 |
| Gas filled | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Functional temperature | 68-131 °F | 68-131 °F | 68-131 °F |
| Light transmisson (%) | 88 | 85 | 83 |
| Warranty (years)* | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime |
| Stabilisation correction angle (degrees) | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Gimbal type | KDGS-2 | KDGS-2 | KDGS-2 |
| CPU/Software | KT 3.0 | KT 3.0 | KT 3.0 |
| Tripod connection socket 1/4" | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power autonomy | Up to 120 hours | Up to 120 hours | Up to 120 hours |
| Power source | AAA Li-ion USB-C (included), alkaline or lithium. | AAA Li-ion USB-C (included), alkaline or lithium. | AAA Li-ion USB-C (included), alkaline or lithium. |
| User-replaceable Li-ion cell included | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Spare battery compartment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Angle power control (APC) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep timer (minutes) | Yes (90) | Yes (90) | Yes (90) |
| Low battery indicator | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| generation | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Made in | Japan | Japan | Japan |