Eric:
I own the Yosemite 6x30 original version, and I like it and the
build is good. The stiff focusing that you may hear about is
the seal drag that aids with waterproofing. No big deal, and
it seems the Kowa is very similar and may be a clone of the Yosemite.
I would not rate one over the other, but one thing that is
well known, is that Leupold is ranked near the very top with
any warranty issues, and that for me means a lot. With Kowa
I just don't know. Maybe someone could tell us about that.
These small porros are very nice and small, good for younger
users. I have given one Yose. to my nephew, and am thinking about getting another, or 2, as I am starting to have grandchildren, as they will be need to be trained in the great
outdoors.
Jerry
