Nikon Monarch ATB: Reference Value Binos, Part 3
March 12, 2010 by
Filed under Binoculars Ratings
PART 3 of 3: Excellent quality binoculars are indispensable for many activities to include tactical operations, general recreation, watching sporting events, wildlife watching, and hunting. In this three part video series, I take an in-depth look at features, terminology (simplified), and specifications that will make a difference in the performance of your selected binos. My current reference standard for high value and yet super high quality medium-format binos are the excellent “Nikon Monarch ATB” series. These Monarch 8×42 and 10×42 binos compare very favorably against MUCH more expensive binoculars and they are generally THE class leader against all comers in terms of weight at a very light 21.5 oz (subject to change). These Nikons are some of the most popular binos in the world today and have amassed an impressive track record of dependable performance and they have many fans the world over. They offer an incredible quality level and set of features for around $300: high quality and precision-ground Eco glass, phase-corrected and fully multi-coated optics, tough quality construction with useful rubber armor, total waterproofness, extendable eyecups that stay in place, a stiff hinge to maintain alignment, outstanding optical resistance to light flare-ups (from night urban lighting), an incredible 25 year generous replacement warranty, and they are offered in some great colors (black, tan and green camo patterns). A minor downside are lens covers that don’t fit tight …
Nice vid!
At the end of the day, the biggest lesson in all optics is learning that reviews, data sheets, test results are just guidelines. I don’t care if its camera lenses or binoculars, the end result is your perception, since you are the user. Don’t get caught up in it! The 10×43 vs 10×50 comparison is simple physics -the bigger lens will gather more light, therefore give superior low light performance given similar glass quality. I find the 5mm exit pupil to be my comfort limit unless size is critical
Want a pair of binos that will spank those Nikons hands down, for about $50 brand new? Russian military binoculars – google them, several reputable distributors in the US. You WILL pay in weight, as they are traditional design poros, but for FIFTY bucks? And yes, I guarantee you would have to go to a Leica, Zeiss or Swavorski to match or beat them optically (reason being, they are made on stolen Zeiss tooling and optical formulas). I’ve had mine for over 20 years. I prefer no less than 5mm e.p.
I recently got Pentax 10×50 DCF SP roof prism. Are they better or worse than 10×43 DCF SP? The field of view is surprisingly narrower (5 degrees) than the 10×43 (6+ degrees, I think). Anyway, the 10×50s are still quite small and very light, compared to my Fujinon 8×42 CD, which are quite heavy.
I’ve had a pair of these binocs (Nikon Monarchs) for a while and I’ve gotta agree – GREAT value for the money and great binocs. However, recently I spoiled myself and bought a pair of swarovski el 10×42 and I think they are worth the price. I use them solely for hunting and especially put on a tripod I pick up a ton more animals. Dusk and dawn is when they really shine. Great videos though keep up the good work.
Nice review as usual man.
are you sure because companies such as Leatherman have a lifetime warranty on anything, but I do recognize that other companies like Silva only have warranty on faulty workmanship and won’t replace it if you smashed their compass
due you rock big thumbs up
That’s not true. I got a pair for Christmas, dropped then about two months ago and had to send them for repair (broke one of the extending eye cups) I followed the service directions online, told them exactly what happened. They repaired them and shipped them back. No cost. That’s why it’s called a NO-FAULT 25 year warrenty.
I think you have a misunderstanding about
warranty. If you drop your binocular and it
get damaged, it’s your fault and you have
to pay what it takes to repair it, questions
ARE asked.
Thanks NutNFancy
We have Nikon, Leica and Olympus microscopes in the labs… We love our Nikons the best, their lens and mechanics are tops, but wasn’t sure that the quality transcended to the world of binoculars.
I was surprised to hear the Nikons were more competitively priced then the others, because in the scientific field that doesn’t seem to be the case.
O.K. I am sending my order out for the Nikons… thanks, you made the research easy.
I’ve seen that case before, but I can’t remember where or what brand it was either. Maybe I’ll have to stop by Sportsman’s Warehouse and see if I can find it.
I just got that case you dont know the name brand of. It is made by Fieldline and I got it at Sports Authority.
Leupolds have lifetime warranty. My dad bought a scope in 1968. It started fogging up last year. I sent them back for free and they fixed them and sent me a letter of history included. No problem. Just thought I would add that tidbit of info.
love all your stuff man,alot of work for one guy. how about some handheld gps reviews?
In-freakin’ credible!! Awesome series. so educational, to the point, no B.S. I love it! And… THOROUGH!!! Thank You so much Nutn, for all the hard work. It really shows, and pays off for us, the dedicated NC’s!
Is the outer objective side of the binos “all round” (or kind of egg-shaped) to put some butler-creek flippers on?
Good review! I’ve been hunting for a high value, high quality monocular for true “mobility” in optics. Any recommendation?
I own the 10 power monarchs for hunting,these are the best binos I’ve ever owned.The 8 power would be better for hunting in heavy cover like in the woods
I own the 10 power monarchs,these are the best binos I’ve ever owned.The 8 power would be better for hunting
I finally finished watching all of your new vids and all I have to say is thanks for all your hard work in bringing us these awesome no bs reviews. 5/5
I can see for miles and miles and miles
SWEET!!! binocular reviews too!! Nice Work NUTNFANCY
there´s a lot more coming? Bring it on
Good review nutnfancy.
Have you tried the Canon image stabilized range of binoculars?