Bushnell Rangemaster 7x35
The Bushnell Rangemaster 7x35 was one of the first and best wide angle 7x35 models from Japan. The original version, introduced in 1951, was made by Fuji Photo Optical. Later versions were made by Tamron, eventually using the Custom body style. The versions are quite different mechanically and optically, but all are very good binoculars.
FPO Early Version (IF) Serial No. 5114
Mfr: Fuji Photo Optical
Date: circa 1951
AFOV: 70 degrees
TFOV: 10 degrees
Eye Relief: ~14mm
Prisms: low index
This is an example of a very early Rangemaster. It has an FPO logo and is marked Made in Occupied Japan. It has low index prisms, as evidenced by obvious vignetting in the form of squared off exit pupils. The coatings are also less efficient, with a light blue color. There is no baffle in the objective tube but there are prism shields. The optics show more ghosting and extraneous light than in the later FPO version. Otherwise, it has a similar wide angle view. Also note the differences in the hinge supports in comparison to the later version.
FPO Later Version (CF) Serial No. 313380
Mfr: Fuji Photo Optical
Date: circa late 1950's
AFOV: 70 degrees
TFOV: 10 degrees
Eye Relief: ~14mm
Prisms: high index
This is a more typical early style Rangemaster. There are no J- marks, so it was probably made before 1960. The coatings have a purplish tinge. There is no shielding on the prisms, but there is a baffle behind the objective. I find the views from this Rangemaster to be very pleasing and I prefer it to the later version made by Tamron.
FPO Later Silver Trim Version Serial No. 314662
Mfr: Fuji Photo Optical
Date: circa late 1950's
This version is basically the same as the FPO shown above (SN 313380) with silver trim around the eyepieces and objectives. Also seen with this sample is a leather eyepiece cover. It has the same optical characteristics as the version above.
Tamron Early Version
Photo
courtesy Steve Stayton
Mfr: Tamron J-B45
Date: circa early 1960's
This an example of an intermediate version of the Rangemaster made by Tamron, in someone else's collection. The body is more like the earlier style but the optics are said to be like in the later versions.
Tamron "Custom" Style
Mfr: Tamron (BT), J-B45, J-E47
Date: circa late 1960's
AFOV: ~77 degrees
TFOV: 11 degrees
Eye Relief: ~12-13mm
Prisms: high index
The Rangemaster in the "Custom" body style was introduced in the mid 1960's. This particular sample was made by Tamron, as indicated by the J-B45 and the "BT" (Bushnell Tamron?). The FOV is slightly wider than in the FPO but the eye relief is also slightly reduced. Although the body is more ruggedly constructed than in the FPO versions, it is also a bit bulkier and heavier. This is a very fine wide angle binocular, but I still like the FPO version somewhat better.