Binoculars

For the longest time, it was considered best to use 10×50 binoculars to gaze at the stars. They’re pretty lightweight, don’t cost too much, and they have enough of a field of view to look up at the sky. However, most hand-held 10x50s are at the upper limit of comfort zone. Models that have better magnification or additional aperture usually need a mount or tripod to see steady views. In fact, even a 10×50 won’t work much without some additional support. Sadly, the devices are no longer so portable if you need enough paraphernalia like a telescope.

Now, however, there is the image-stabilized binocular. Canon is among those leading the market in top-quality binoculars. To cope with the advancing market, it has developed the Canon Image Stabilization All-Weather Binoculars.

• The device is made for water sports, hunting, and similar outdoor challenges.
• The binoculars can be enjoyed without a tripod. For extended use, however, there is a socket that allows tripod use.
• Unlike other binoculars, this model isn’t meant to be held from the neck. You will need a thick neoprene strap for maximum support if you want to hold it around your neck.
• Using it in cold weather will require lithium batteries. The binoculars are meant for wet conditions, but you should still use a 58mm hood to prevent stray light.
• The 18×50 features 18x magnification and 50 millimeters for objective lens. It has a 3.7 degree angle view with a focus distance of about 19.7 feet per 6 meters.
• It’s a bit heavier, but the 1180 gram weight is due to the image stabilizer. This makes it the new best choice for stargazing.

Since its first launch into the market, the Canon Image Stabilization Binoculars have had great reviews. One reason for this is the qualify of images that you can see through them. Using this device, you will definitely get the clarify you desire with a very ergonomic design.

The construction is quite strong, meaning it is suitable for most outdoor activities that involve a lot of movement. The lenses are equally great, allowing images to remain clear and vibrant even if you are viewing them from a very long distance. The binoculars are even useful for those who actively wear eyeglasses; there is an eye relief feature available on the device, in fact, if you have such a concern. Finally, its compact design makes it the best choice for comfort while carrying it around, day or night.

As far as negative points, there are only a few to mention. The first one would be the heavy weight, making it difficult to wear around the neck. It’s also difficult to carry for a prolonged period of time, so while it is useful for stargazing, you might not be able to handle it for too long without added tripod support.

Secondly, the barrels are also mildly stiff, so adjustments may be a little difficult. At least they’ll stay in place once you do set them.

Overall, the Canon Image Stabilization All-Weather Binoculars may be a bit pricey, but it’s worth the cost for the image stabilizer. This technology gives it a superior edge due to the convenience of use in all kinds of outdoor activities. The accessories that can be used with it help add to its value as well, such as the lens cap, polarizer glass filter, fog eliminator, tripod and folding stool.

With each purchase, you will be able to get some alkaline batteries, a woven strap and a soft case as well as a three-year warranty. Remember to upgrade your strap if you want to wear it around your neck.

The Celestron Granite 10×50 binoculars provide outstanding optical magnification viewing possibilities in a stylish and elegant case. Providing up to 50 times magnification in all weather conditions, the Celestron Granite binoculars are perfect for bird watchers, hunters and lovers of the great outdoors.

Features

The Celestron Granite binoculars are nitrogen-purged, meaning the inside is both waterproof and fogproof. The lenses are equipped with broadband multi-coatings for maximum light transmission throughput with the highest levels of contrast. The precision Celestron Granite coatings render the view in high fidelity natural colors with lush, full-spectrum color saturation. The lenses are BaK-4 Prisms with the legendary Celestron Granite dialectic high reflectivity and phase coatings.

The Celestron Granite 10×50 come stylishly encased in a protective layer of high quality rubber, which helps improve ergonomic features and reduces slipping. Focus knobs, a diopter ring and twist-up eyecups are fabricated of quality metal to ensure durability and precision movement for viewing adjustments.

Technical Details

The weight of the Celestron Granite 10×5 binoculars is exactly three pounds, providing the perfect balance between heft and portability. The binoculars measure 6.6 by 2.4 by 5.2 inches. The Celestron Granite comes in a matte black finish. Accessories such as straps and tripod adapters are sold separately.

My Opinion

I am a retired NASA photographer and an avid birdwatcher, and I’ve been searching for the perfect pair of binoculars. After my last pair cracked during an adverse weather event, I decided to do my research and comb the market for the best binoculars I could find. When I tried the Celestron Granite, I was blown away by how many light years ahead of my old binoculars these beauties were. Without trying to make a pun, I can honestly say I have never seen a pair of binoculars that can touch the Celestron Granite.

The view is sharp and crisp even during side to side motion. I especially enjoyed the brilliant field of view, which had full spectrum saturation and high contrast. Even objects as close as six feet away were a marvel to behold, and I was stunned by how much better the view was through the binoculars than with the naked eye.

Although I wear thick glasses, I prefer to look through binoculars without them. Using the twist-up eyecups, I was quite impressed at how comfortable a view I achieved with the Celestron Granite. I was very pleased at how the combination of multi-coating and specialized ED glass ensure that colors stay in their register. I have successfully used these binoculars to track birds in flight, and found the adjustment knobs to allow fantastic control over focal depth, allowing me to keep the image crystal clear.

Even just held in the hands, the Celestron Granite has a solid heft, and the rubber coating is pleasant to the touch. The balanced measurements make these binoculars convenient and quite easy to carry. The open bridge on the body allows me to get a very secure grip and a comfortable position next to my eyes. I liked how the magnesium body feels light but reassuringly solid.

Once I had adjusted the interocular distance and correctly set the diopter to suit my viewing needs, I headed into the field to put these binoculars through their paces. Whether engaged in bird watching, wildlife viewing or enjoying sporting events, I love my Celestron Granite binoculars. Their light weight and excellently balanced body make it easy for me to hold the binoculars for long periods of time.

Final Impressions

Bird watchers, nature lovers, hunters, sporting enthusiasts and people watchers will greatly enjoy the Celestron Granite 10×50 binoculars. With smooth, precision adjustments and the latest breakthrough in optical technology, the Celestron Granite binoculars provide optimum viewing magnification. Rugged enough to be used outdoors, the precision engineering and nitrogen-purged interior provide crisp magnification under all atmospheric conditions.

The new set of Vanguard Spirit ED binoculars offers cutting-edge enhancements in ocular technology. State-of-the-art developments take into mind not only technical conveniences but also the visual necessities of the individual user.

Does that make Vanguard’s Spirit ED the “perfect” set of binoculars? That would be up to the individual, although many users have already given them the thumbs-up. Still, readers should research before making any decision.

The Spirit ED: a Piece-by-Piece Review

The most popular Spirit size is the 8×42 due to its broader viewing capabilities. That’s not to say the 10×42 is of inferior quality. Both offer similar features and are widely sought. Viewing, however, leads the list as far as most users’ needs and preferences go. The differences between the two rest primarily in body and lens size, hence the greater viewing range with the 8×42 size.

Specs

Below are the specs for both ‘8×42’ and the ‘10×42’ sizes. Where no distinction is made, the details generally apply to both.

• Prism Type: BaK4 roof
• Magnifications: 8x and 10x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
• View Angle:
  • 8×42: 6.3 degrees
  • 10×42: 6.0 degrees
• Field-of-Vision:
  • 8×42: 330ft @ 1,000yds/109.66m @ 1,000m
  • 10×42: 314ft @ 1,000yds/105m @ 1,000m
• Minimum Focal Distance/Near-Focus:
  • 8×42: 8.2’/2.5m
  • 10×42: 2.5m/8.2ft
• Focus Type: central focusing wheel
• Eye Relief:
  • 8×42: 19mm
  • 10×42: 16mm
• Exit Pupil Diameter: 5.3mm
• Weight:
  • 8×42: 1.32lbs/599g
  • 10×42: 21.16oz/600g.
• Tripod Mount: yes
• Phase Coating: yes

Features

• Body & Chassis – Tactile armoring made of durable rubber dampens sounds and is damage resistant. The lightweight, user-friendly design offers hand grooves along the barrels’ undersides for ease and comfort in handling.
• Twist-Out Eye Cups – Two-stage maneuverability provides longer eye relief. Since the eye cups touch the skin directly, such positioning protects the interior lenses from over-exposure to unaccommodating weather and other threatening environmental conditions.
• Advanced BaK4 Prism: Circular field of view allows better viewing performance.
• ED, or Extra Low-Dispersing, Glass – Prism and lenses align filtered color to converge on the same focal plane in order to minimize chromatic aberration and ensure the maximum brightness, sharpness and contrast of every image, near and far. Color reproduction is acute and spans the spectrum of natural greens and other hues.
• Multicoated Lenses – Innovative design includes AR and V-Max coatings that create optimum light transmissions and low-light performance, such as at nightfall. Optical glass reflects ten percent of light while permitting the other ninety percent to stream in so all imagery is bright, sharp and of high contrast.
• HydroGuard – External hydrophobic coating facilitates lens cleaning and simultaneously allows for better performance in wet environmental conditions.
• Short Near-Focus: Closer views are sharp, vivid and distinct as well.
• Waterproof/Fog-Proof: Ergonomic construction prevents damage that could result from the surrounding environment or inclement weather.
• Focusing Wheel – Central position provides for aesthetics and functionality. Diopter knob makes possible separate adjustments to lenses, depending on the user’s visual needs.
• Tripod Mount – Central cover unscrews so users can attach binoculars to a set of tripod for stable, long-term viewing.
• Carry Case – This nylon or polyester case exhibits outside panels and interior foam cushioning to ensure firm packing when binoculars are not in use. A nylon strap allows for either hand- or neck-carrying as necessary.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Those interested should inquire first to see if the case in included. It might not be. Never assume.

Conclusion

Testing panels have praised the Spirit ED for its innovation and ideal combination of technical features and a user-friendly design. Apparently, nothing is frivolous here, yet the Spirit ED unit is still appealing to many. That’s worth of consideration.

If you want to learn a little bit more about these awesome binoculars, watch the video below:

A good pair of binoculars is optically clear, compact enough to be easily carried, and durable enough to withstand unusual conditions. Monarch 7 binoculars, from Nikon, meet all of these criteria. By combining the best in optical technology with a sturdy, well engineered design, Nikon has made a pair of binoculars that will meet almost any need.

Features

The Nikon Monarch 7 binoculars feature low dispersion glass, phase correcting roof prisms, and dielectric high reflection prism coatings to make the optical image created for the viewer as clear and true to life as possible. All of these elements combine to make a very high fidelity viewing experience, as well as to ensure that glare or other light phenomena do not compromise the view. In addition, scratch resistant coatings are applied to all exterior lenses to guard against damage. The binoculars are also sealed with o-rings and filled with nitrogen gas to maintain a water resistant seal that is effective in up to 3 feet of water for up to 10 minutes. The binoculars can also be affixed to a tripod for stationary viewing, and feature flip down lens caps.

Durability

Binoculars, being a very fine and precise optical tool, are often thought of as being fragile. With the Monarch 7 binoculars, this is not the case. Owing to the durable casing and the many protective features designed to protect the optical components, these binoculars are up for just about anything that may get thrown at them. These are ideal as sporting binoculars, and would do well on a nature excursion or in other sporing situations.

Optical Accuracy

Nikon Monarch 7 binoculars are quite good optically. The many glare and refraction reducing features create an image that is clear and not distorted or fuzzy. These same optics also present the viewer with a very true to life representation of color and brightness.

Price

Good binoculars are never cheap. While different retailers vary somewhat in price, the average seems to run around $400. Considering the quality of the binoculars, this is quite reasonable. Given that many high end binoculars can run half again as much as this or even more, the Monarch 7 binoculars are well priced.

Drawbacks

Despite their very high quality and reasonable pricing, there have been some minor complaints regarding the Monarch 7 binoculars. The most common, and also most major, is that the binoculars are difficult to get into good focus. While adjusting the focus on them is quite is easy, it can be tricky to dial in the focus for a crisp and clear image. Another, albeit less major, complaint has been that the instructions that come with the binoculars are poorly worded and difficult to follow. Several of the instruction sections seem to have no illustrations, thus compounding the problem of clunky wording. However, given the prevalence of online video tutorials and reviews, this should present only a minor inconvenience.

Conclusion

Beyond a couple of very minor drawbacks, the Monarch 7 binoculars from Nikon are an excellent pair of medium priced binoculars. While certainly not military grade, they will suffice for almost any normal usage. They are also extremely durable, allowing them to be taken on hikes, nature outings, bird watching, or just about any other expedition you may have in mind. The optics produce a very clear and undistorted image that is both bright and colorful. The same features that make the binoculars water resistant also serve to keep it sealed against atmospheric humidity, preventing the lenses from fogging up and producing a blurry image.

Are you looking for a good pair of rugged starter binoculars that can withstand all types of terrains, temperatures, and conditions? There are many great brands and models on the market, but Bushnell H20 Compact Binoculars is one of the best waterproof marine optics available for those of who are looking for a good pair of starter binoculars.

These binoculars work great in any weather condition since they are 100% waterproof, fog proof, and dust proof. They include a nitrogen purging feature, as well as a central focusing system. The featured o-ring seal won’t allow water to penetrate within its walls. They are ideal for fishing, sailing, rowing, hiking, or skiing. They also work great in high altitudes or just about any rugged environment. These binoculars are also incredibly portable, with their compact size. It’s worth mentioning that these binoculars come in other models, which range from as large as 7×50, to 8×25, which is the smallest model that is available. The lens provides a very crisp image of objects that are in motion, as well as objects that are stationary and features magnification that is very powerful. These binoculars come in a sleek black color and are also made with BAK-4 prisms, which allows you to see brighter light transmission. The non-slip rubberized armor housing is also integrated into the binoculars, allowing you a good grip in any weather conditioner. Other features include the tethered lens caps, twist-up eyecups, a long eye relief, as well as the smooth central focusing knob.

One military reviewer even went as far as performing a dunk test, by dumping them in 1/2 m of almost freezing water for half an hour. He noted that they do, in fact, live up to the claims that they are waterproof and that the binoculars did not fog. He also noted that no water spots formed and that the rubber exterior did well in protecting the optics. This reviewer in particular tests products for police and military work.

These binoculars are great for a starter pair of binoculars for those who are actively spending time outdoors. Overall, this product is very good for the price, at around $38.99 at Amazon.com. Not only are they great starter binoculars, but they are very affordable. Compared to other starter H20 compact binoculars, these are definitely the best value. These binoculars also come with a lifetime warranty, so if they break for any reason your product is covered.

Although these are great binoculars, there are some drawbacks. First, the binoculars can be heavy at 10.23oz, which can be inconvenient when you are carrying them around during outdoor activities. There have also been reports of optics glares, which can interfere with your view when looking through the binoculars. It’s been stated that objects appear fuzzy around the edges and that it’s hard to see when looking directly into the sunlight. Lastly, the neck strap that is included is said to be thin and flimsy and that the lens cap can be lost easily, which aren’t a good features if you’re going to be performing rough outdoor activities. If you are going to be using these very frequently and will be doing very rough activities, these may not be right for you because of the weight and the flimsy neck strap. Or especially if you want something that is lightweight for use in activities such as backpacking.

Compared the competition, these binoculars really hold up to their claims. I highly recommend these binoculars for those who are starting out and need an affordable model of binoculars for all of their outdoor activities!

Bushnell’s Legends have always stood out as some of the best binoculars in the market, and the new HD version has helped to add some extra punch to this venerable line of binoculars. The Bushnell’s Legend Ultra HD 8x42mm binoculars are fairly-priced, and give a sharp image with good contrast, and have far less fall-off in image quality as you get near the edges than comparable non-HD models.

Image Quality

Bushnell Ultra HD 8 x 42mm gives a sharp image right down to about 1.5m, making them excellent for all-round wildlife watching. The image remains quite sharp even at the edges with excellent close focus.

The image has a field view of 140m@1000m, and is good and wide. What’s really remarkable is that much of this field is highly usable, with the details, contrast as well as control of chromatic aberration excellent even well outside the image’s sweet spot. This can be chalked up to the fact that the binocular glass is fully multi-coated and uses extra low dispersion (ED) glass that is made of fluorite to reduce chromatic aberration. Image quality starts deteriorating at about 50% of the radius of the field of view but only gets fuzzy around at 20% radius from the edges.

While it’s true that Bushnell Legend’s field of view is smaller than that of higher-end binoculars, this is something that is more noticeable when the user is using a tripod, but hardly noticeable when the device is held in the hands.

Color fringing has been kept to a minimum and is only noticeable when it’s very bright outside, though even then it’s not a big problem. The image has a slightly yellowy cast to it that is not readily apparent unless you are used to those very high-end binoculars.

The Legend Ultra HD gives above average viewing in in low light conditions just as it does in bright light. The binoculars, however, tend to develop a few floating spots of light when a bright light is picked in a low light environment. This is, however, a lot more tolerable than the strong spikes of light that are seen to emanate from the light source when you are using a lower-quality pair of binoculars.

Focusing is smooth and precise. The binocular’s focus wheel travel is moderately stiff, which is a good thing because it only moves when the user moves it deliberately and not when it is disturbed accidentally. The focus wheel is a chunky 1.5 fingers wide, and takes 1.5 turns to move from close view to infinity. The binocular’s diopter (a pull-out ring that is located on the right side of the eyepiece) is chunky too and works well.

Build Quality

Bushnell’s Ultra HD Legend has a surprisingly good build for binoculars in its price point. The chassis is made of magnesium and provides a durable lightweight frame than aluminum alloys, making it easy to carry for extended periods. The heavily ridged armor gives the device a robust feel. The rubber-covered eyepieces are built to twist up and down to three positions and are comfortable to use for extended periods. They tend to remain in position without any problem as well. The objective lens covers are tethered to the device but are removable. A rainguard is present, though the device is waterproof and can even be washed with no ill-effects. The binoculars’ semi-solid case is capable of withstanding some pretty hard knocks with no damage to the device.

Final Verdict

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 8x42mm binoculars are probably the best binocular system in their class. There are a number of HD binoculars available in the market today which offer better image quality, but they tend to be much more expensive. The Legends seems to do a pretty good job with unfussy and user-friendly features. Simply put, Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 8x42mm is the closest you can get to a pair of high-end HD binoculars at its price point. Definitely worth the money.

Modeled after the very binoculars Steiner provides for the military, Steiner’s 8×30 Military-Marine set is designed to provide high-quality optics in rugged conditions. Steiner brings the best of its near 70 years of experience to this set, with convincing results. They’re touted as fit for any environment and purpose, a claim backed by the set’s firm construction and finely tuned features. The 8×30 Military-Marine set breaks out of its combat roots to provide quality visuals to environmentalists, hunters, and sports enthusiasts.

Features

• 8x magnification, 30mm objective lens, and 20mm eye relief
• Rainproof and fog-resistant construction
• Sports Auto-Focus System
• Rubber Armored Housing
• 360 feet field of view at 1000 yards

Image Quality

Steiner’s Military-Marine binoculars provide an impressive field of view and excel at long range observation. Their main draw is Steiner’s patented Auto-Focus system. After adjusting each eyepiece to each of the viewer’s eyes, Auto-Focus keeps images sharp, allowing for seamless tracking of moving objects. The multi-coated lenses provide impressive and consistent levels of brightness and clarity, actively prevent ruinous glares, and resist fogging up on account of environmental conditions.

Overall, the set operates finest at mid to long ranges. The Auto-Focus system becomes effective as close as 20 yards, but does its best work at greater distances. At 100 to 1000 yards, the precision of the set’s Auto-Focus is in a class above many other models. Every corner of the wide image stays in peak focus, even at great distances.

Build

Steiner’s 8×30 Military-Marine binoculars match the implications of their name. The set is built like a tank and takes any abuse in stride. The rubber-armored housing is extremely rugged and feels right at home in rocky outdoor environments. The 8×30 Military-Marine binoculars are sturdy without taking on weight, and are comfortable to hold and carry. The mechanisms are stiff and hold their position, which is most beneficial to the focus. The military influences are most prevalent in the set’s construction. They are built to last without need for repair or even caution.

The 20mm long eye relief is great for glasses wearers, and is another small nuance feature that increases the value of the set. Steiner’s long experience pays off in fashion, durability, and comfortability when it comes to the construction of the product. 8×30 Military-Marine set’s weather resistant features function well, providing the necessary security from rain and fog.

Portability

At 18 ounces, the 8×30 Military-Marine set is hardly a burden and is shaped compactly enough that it never feels awkward keeping them at ready. The binoculars are highly portable, and fit any ensemble for any environment as advertised. Feature-laden as the set is, holding, transporting, and using it is quite simple. The rubber-armored housing lacks the weight other models have without sacrificing protection, combining convenience with some needed assurance.

Verdict

The 8×30 Military-Marine binoculars prove every claim Steiner makes for them. Sleek, sturdy, military design influences make the set one of the better mid to long range binoculars on the market. They are very versatile without becoming under-specialized, general purpose items. Instead, the set is master of all its trades, particularly suited for exploration and observance but equally capable in more leisurely settings. The binoculars come with every feature they need, from magnification to value and practicality. Steiner’s Sports Auto-Focus stands out in the optics department while the sturdy but streamlined physical design provides excellent longevity and portability. Steiner’s 8×30 Military-Marine binoculars are simply put, some of the best that most people will ever own.

Binoculars stand as one of the most used optical aid gadget, coming second only after eyeglasses. Owing to this demand, there are numerous brands available in the market and the choice for which binos to purchase should depend on the task which it is to perform be it birdwatching, hunting, boating and marine use or for entertainment value in theater and concerts. The Redfield Rebel 8×42mm binoculars have a multitude of unmatched optical, functional and mechanical features. The dimensions and specifications of the Redfield Rebel makes it known for its accurateness, reliability and ruggedness making it the obvious choice for high performance tasks. The 8×42mm comes in an array of colors. Here are some of the specs that make Rebel 8×42mm a must have bino.

Aluminum body

The Rebel 8×42mm is manufactured using aluminum and rubber. The rubber is used to cover the handles creating a soft case that is not only pleasant to hold but also for effectiveness because of the subtle friction that creates sufficient grip and allows the much needed steadiness when operating high magnification binoculars. This feature makes the Rebel 8×42mm ideal for all weather, including rainy environments. Aluminum casing covering the remaining surface area gives this bino durability status. This is because the aluminum metal is corrosion free and can therefore be used on a rainy day without any worry. Aluminum is also light, therefore reducing the overall weight of the gadget making it ideal for the outdoors.

Twist up eyecups

The eyecups of the Rebel 8×42mm are created for easy use and flexibility. Keeping in mind uses like hunting and birdwatching which require swift action, these eye cups easily slide up making sure that no inconvenience is occasioned.

Top notch prism system

This is the most attractive feature of the Rebel 8×42mm so far. It has high resolution capability because it is fitted with BAK-4 prisms. This type of prism is manufactured using a glass of superior optical quality that can produce crystal clear images. This feature makes these binos fun to use, especially for nature lovers who enjoy watching beautiful scenery, seasoned travelers, hunting enthusiasts and even sports fanatics. They are arranged in a straight like manner inside the optical tube forming a roofing-style prism system that makes the set of binoculars compact. Needless to say, the BAK-4 prisms are the best in the market.

Multi coated lenses

The AR coating is easy to clean and its anti-reflective coating keeps away shadows, making this pair of binos suited for night vision owing to the clarity of the images it forms. The AR anti-smudge technology gives the lenses its durability quality. The lenses in the Rebel 8×42mm are multi-coated as most of its air to glass surfaces are coated using AR anti-reflective material giving it high ability to reduce light glare.

8× Magnification

This set of optical aid is able to magnify images eight times the ability of the naked eye. This in effect means that it magnifies the image making it eight times bigger than its original size. This dimension makes the Rebel 8×42mm ideal for military canvassing and surveillance as it is able to magnify movement of objects as well.

This high magnification capacity, however, has a downside in that it affects the diameter of the exit pupil. The exit pupil is what regulates the amount if light entering the lenses. A very small exit pupil hinders ambient light from reaching the lenses. In the Rebel 8×42mm this phenomenon is avoided by increasing the diameter of the objective lens (42mm) therefore achieving a 4.0mm exit pupil diameter.

The Monarch 3 10 x 42 Binoculars were created by Nikon, one of the most trusted names in optics. These binoculars are easy to hold with a non-slip surface and are relatively light weight, yet they are also rugged and durable. The numbers 10 x 42 refer to their magnification power of 10 and their objective diameter of 42 mm.

Some Key Features

Some of the most important features of the Nikon Monarch 3 10 x 42 binoculars include:

• Rubber-armored coating so that you can grip them easily without slipping
• Lenses that are o-ring sealed to make them waterproof and fogproof
• Flip-down lens covers to protect your lenses
• Multi-coated lenses so that your image will be bright and clear, not cloudy
• Multiple settings for eyecups, which especially assists those who wear glasses
• An easy to maneuver focus knob
• Silver alloy prism coating, which is high-reflective and thus helps the binoculars to perform well in low light situations

General Uses for these Binoculars

Standard sized binoculars such as these, with a good objective diameter, can be used for a variety of purposes including birdwatching, watching sports or concerts, hunting, or when viewing the landscape while traveling or hiking. Nikon recommends an “exit pupil” specification of 5 mm or larger for most star gazing, and these binoculars fall slightly below that with an exit pupil number of 4.2 mm. It’s still well above the 3 mm mark, however, and thus could be used for at least some general star and planet gazing.

Some Technical Specifications

Don’t be daunted by all the numbers listed in binocular specifications. They are generally fairly easy to understand, even if you’ve not purchased binoculars before. Many manufacturers, including Nikon, include a helpful reference guide to understanding specifications on their website.

The magnification number, already mentioned, refers to the comparison between the apparent size of what you’re seeing through the binoculars with its actual size. In other words, if you’re viewing something 1,000 meters away and looking through 10x binoculars like these, it’s going to seem about the same size as something you could view unaided at 100 meters.

The objective diameter number, 42 for this pair, refers to the objective diameter measurement in millimeters. If you have two pairs of binoculars with the same magnification power, the one with the larger objective diameter is going to collect more light and result in a higher resolution image. One drawback is that binoculars with a larger objective diameter tend to be bigger or heavier. A 42 mm objective diameter measurement, however, puts these squarely in the “standard” size for binoculars (not compact, and not those made more specifically for astronomical observation). They weigh only about 24.7 ounces, making them good for traveling.

Field of view specifications (usually broken up into real FOV, apparent FOV and FOV at 1,000 meters) have to do with the width and angle of the visible field, that is the field you can see when you look though the binoculars. These have a real FOV of 5.7 inches, an apparent FOV of 52.9 inches and an FOV at 1,000 meters of 299 feet.

Customer Satisfaction

Based on reviews, customers seem to be very satisfied with the Nikon Monarch 3 10 x 42 binoculars. They are consistently cited as excellent in quality for their price range. They generally sell for around $250 and come with Nikon’s 25 year “no fault” warranty. Brightness, clarity and durability are often cited as some of the best strengths of these particular binoculars.

Monarch 5 binoculars offer outdoor enthusiasts the absolute best in a pair of binoculars with a 25-year no fault limited warranty. They make a great companion for sightseeing, bird watching and viewing wildlife. Viewing sport events are another popular option for using a pair of these fantastic binoculars.

A pair of these high quality Monarch 5 8x42mm binoculars can be purchased new in the box for $299.95 that includes the user manual and warranty card. A carrying case, neck strap and eyepiece cap are also included in the package.

Specifications Overview

• Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed advantage. Monarch 5 binoculars incorporate a waterproof design that prevents internal fogging of the lens glass. This is of utmost value to people using the binoculars in wet cool weather. A lens that isn’t manufactured with an airtight, waterproof design can become saturated with moisture on the inside of the glass that promotes fungal growth.
• Eye-cups, eye relief and focus adjustment options. The eyecups have four positions that they can be adjusted from fully retracted to completely extend at 10 mm. Eye relief is comfortable whether using eyeglasses or for users who don’t wear them. Focus adjustment can be easily manipulated by a simple turn of the focus wheel to bring distant viewing up close.
• Exterior design features. Nikon has a niche for incorporating durable products that can withstand many years of abuse and has excelled once again with the Monarch binocular series of products. Using polycarbonate resins reinforced with fiberglass makes the exterior body almost indestructible. With a lightweight, perfectly balanced design, the binoculars can be carried all day long without discomfort.
• Great low light performance. The Monarch 5 binoculars perform extremely well during evening hours. The dielectric coatings definitely play a huge role in the ability of the glass to display objects brighter than binoculars without the technology.

Technical Specifications

• Central focusing system knob adjusts for several eye comfort settings.
• Magnification of 8x with 42 mm objective diameter.
• Angular FOV (field of view). FOV (Real) 6.3 degrees / FOV (Apparent) 47.5 degrees.
• Field of View at 1000 yards = 330 ft.
• Close focus distance = 7.8 ft.
• Eye relief = 19.5mm.
• Camera weight = 20.8 oz.
• Dimensions are 5.7 x 5.1 in.
• Completely waterproof.
• Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed to eliminate moisture.
• ED glass with both phase and dielectric coating.
• Multicoated lenses deliver exceptional resolution and brightness.
• Twist and Turn rubber eye-cup design.
• Nikon 25-year warranty coverage.

The Verdict

Nikon has an amazing way of producing excellent technological products for today’s marketplace. The Monarch 5 binoculars are an excellent investment for people who spend a lot of time viewing wildlife and outdoor sports. Durability and excellent features of the Monarch 5 will give anyone years of service from the binocular.

The ergonomically designed features of the binoculars make them a joy to carry around all day without annoying the comfort of the user while carrying in the hand or around the neck. It happens to come from the materials that make up the lens glass to make colors and details more vivid for another reason why they are the top choice among consumers. Quality built products and satisfied customers are the top reasons that consumers return repeatedly to Nikon.

Many clients who buy a pair of Monarch 5 binoculars leave positive remarks on reviews with 4 and 5 star ratings. It is because of the design and engineering that Nikon incorporates behind the product as in the instance of the Monarch 5 8x42mm binoculars. This explains why so many happy customers return again to buy products from Nikon. The Monarch 5 binoculars are definitely recommended for anyone wishing to purchase a set that will perform far superior to other brands.