Canon 12x36IS II Binoculars: Rubber coating becoming gummy

[Poses]

I have a pair of Canon 12x36IS II Binoculars I bought in 2008 and The rubber coating on my binocular is becoming gummy, moveable and imprints everything, I took these on one trip when I bought them new otherwise they are stored on a shelve in my living room in the case, I pull them out once or twice a month for use. Is this normal? why is this happening and what can be done to stop this?

[Cannon123]

Agreed, Cannon needs to be flogged.  I have the exact same issue.  Binoculars are used sparingly, jept in a cool dry place, and got this gooey surface now! 

[Cannon123]

I tried alcohol and lots of cloth / paper towel rubbing.  It works some but very arduous and time consuming, it just doesn't come off easily.  After about an hour of this I wasn't halfway through and needed to brake.  Also tried mineral spirits but it's very harsh and harmful and since it didn't like melt the goop right off, I stopped using.  Maybe my binoculars weren't as far along as jkzt's, so it was harder to get it cleaned off??

Anyone have other suggestions to clean this up / off ??

[jkzt1000]

It probably took me 1-2 hours to fully clean it.  Someone else mentioned using a toothbrush with rubbing alcohol made it a little easier.

[johndp]

I shouldn't have to give this advice. Nobody should. But just keep at it. I probably spent over two hours on each pair...and they're not perfect--barely passable. Unfortunately, it takes time.

The posts today have rekindled my disappointment regarding what's otherwise a great product.

[DarrylSequeira]

I have the same issue with my IS 12x36 IS ll Binocular. I just don’t understand why do they continue to sell this defected product. They must recall all these defected product and repair it free of cost. I hope the chemical is not toxic and harmful. This is a very irresponsible behaviour by Canon. I have Canon Cameras too and was planning to buy a mirror less high end model however, I will switch to a more reliable brand with better business ethics and integrity. 

[ZorroJones]

We just used nail polish remover & then went over them with contractors solvent. They’re as good as new. 

[GRANDAD123]

Hi Tim, I think, well I know, I have just discovered how to eliminate the sticky outer casing.  I have been through the cupboard and shed looking for a solution and discovered that using Acetone free nail polish remover and a lint free or cheese cloth and some severe elbow grease and hard work I am on the road to sticky free binoculars.   Good luck its definitely a game changer

[Tintype_18]

Canon is not the only manufacturer to use a rubber coating. I have two bite alarms used for fishing and they have a rubber coating...now a sticky rubber coating. I just live with it.

[paunik]

Butanol was the best solvent for my is canon binocular coating

[Bonfield]

Hello Tim,

I have a similar problem with my Canon 12x36 IS II binoculars. I have had them for several years but no longer use them because the surface is so sticky and comes off on my hands. Is there anything that can be done to help?

Thanks,

Robert