The Sight Savers Hands-Free Magnifier is exactly what the name implies. The magnifier hangs from your neck by an adjustable cord, leaving your hands free for other activities. To help keep the magnifier positioned correctly, and to keep it stable, there are two no-slip foot pads on the viewer, that rest against your chest. This magnifier is light-weight and is remarkably comfortable to wear.
The magnifier, itself, has a 2X powered optical quality acrylic lens that measures 4" x 5" in size, which provides a large viewing area. It is well suited for reading, writing, and doing crafts or any other stationary activity for which you want the use of both of your hands. However, it is only really useful if you are using it to look downward. For example, such as when holding or working with objects that are held between your lap and your chest, much as you would when holding a book. Although this magnifier is intended to be used as a hands-free device, it can also be handheld in cases where you need or desire a magnifier with a large viewing area.
I found that this hands free magnifier lived up to its claims. Once adjusted to my satisfaction, I found that it did not move or wiggle unduly. As well, by freeing up my hands, it allowed me to engage in activities that I could not easily do with a traditional hand held magnifier, such a crocheting. Overall, this is a practical and well manufactured visual aid that provides a large, clear viewing field and which literally provides hands-free magnification!
This review was originally published - January 13, 2002
Compact Lighted Magnifier
The magnifier from Bausch & Lomb has a 2X powered optical quality acrylic lens that measures 2" x 2". The magnifier is housed in a compact case that doubles as a protective casing and a handle for holding the magnifier. This magnifier is also lighted.
