Nikon 7430 Monarch 8 X 42mm All Terrain Binoculars

Nikon 7430 Monarch 8 X 42mm All Terrain Binoculars

Ranking: 9.6 out of 10

Manufacturer: Nikon
Model Number: 7430
Product Code: 018208074303
Price: $430.95 -- get the latest pricing from Amazon

Features:

  • Ultra rugged, rubber-armored, roof prism design
  • Multicoated lenses for bright, clear images
  • Precision aligned optics for extended viewing
  • 100% Waterproof/Fogproof
  • Extended eye relief and central focus for viewing convenience

Buy it now at Amazon!

Description:

Nikon is a precision optical company with worldwide manufacturing, research and marketing capabilities. The Nikon name is equated with extraordinary photographic performance, innovation, precision and optical quality.PRODUCT FEATURES:100% Waterproof/Fogproof/Shockproof;Ultra-rugged, rubber-armored, roof-prism design;Extended eye relief and central focus for viewing convenience;Fully Multicoated lenses for bright, clear images;Precision aligned optics for extended viewing.

User Reviews -- Add a new review for this Product

Tack sharp, lightweight and well worth owning.

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 10! out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I did alot of research before deciding on this pair. As an experienced photographer, optical quality was my top priority.
I originally purchased them for hiking and long range mountain scanning in southern Oregon, and while initially perplexed between the 10X or 8X version; I found the extra sharpness of the 8X resolution negated the need for a 10X magnification, because they rendered so much detail.
With the 8X, I spotted a fire lookout station that I'd never seen before, on a mountain 15 miles out of town. Quite remarkable. Added to that, was the research at Cornell University's Ornithology Center on the web. Birdwatchers extraordinaire; who called them a steal. I concur. I never thought I'd be so happy paying this price for binoculars, but it was a no brainer. Tack sharp, lightweight and well worth owning.

Bargain of the century?

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 10! out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Bought these bins recently, they really are excellent, very easy to use, good feel, amazing light gathering and reproduction, and only 1 and 1/2 pounds. If you read Cornell Lab of Ornithology review, there is only 1 set of binoculars under 1000 dollars that beat these,(and they are 6x lenses not really suitable for general birding.)Everything about them feels and works like 1000 dollar lenses with two exceptions, the lens cap and raingaurd, the former in particular would be a disgrace on 50 dollar lenses, i am going to see if i can buy generic replacements. Lots of other web reviews also rave about them, and 98% of people would not tell the difference between these and top range Zeiss, Leica etc. And for 300 dollars you can take them anywhere and enjoy them.

Performance at a reasonable price

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 10! out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I really like these binoculars. They are light, bright, work well with eyeglasses and I give five stars because they are excellent value. I bought these binoculars for a nature trip in the Amazon and I use them in the back yard, on hikes and occasionally at the symphony or opera. My sister, an ornithologist, told me to get the most expensive binoculars I could afford. To her binoculars are a professional tool but I really didn't want to afford a thousand bucks like she was suggesting. She also told me to try out binoculars in dim conditions and to get 8x42 rather than 10x42 because it is easier to find what you are looking for and easier to hold so that the view is not shaking.In the store I compared these with the same power Leica. The Leica was nice but a lot heavier. I could tell the Leica was better, but not three times the price better. It was dusk, overcast and drizzling (ideal conditions for trying out binoculars). For example, I was looking at the brick work under the awning on a building about a block away from the store. I could see more detail in the brickwork and felt more `there' with the Leica. In brighter conditions the difference is less noticeable and I like the lighter weight of the Monarchs.On the Amazon trip I has the opportunity to compare binoculars with other people. Most people had brought cheaper binoculars and I think as a result their wildlife watching experience was compromised. The only people who had brought comparable binoculars were avid bird watchers. They had Opticrons which are in the same price ballpark as the Leica. Again, they are excellent binoculars but not three times better.I like the hard rubber-armor construction. It does not become slippery when wet. They feel solid but light. I am not so nervous about dropping the binoculars as I would be with the Leica or Opticrons. The firm turn-and slide eyecups (like the Lieca) are a huge improvement over the fussy soft foldable rubber eyecups found on many other binoculars.Looking for binoculars is a lot like looking for Hifi speakers. As the price goes up, the quality improves. At a certain price point you can no longer tell the next price level is clearly better; it is mostly just different. That is a good place to buy, and is something of a personal judgement. Minolta has some binoculars that are priced between the Monarchs and the high end and I think the Monarchs are every bit as good.

Better Optics Make Better Birders. These Make You Better

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 5.5 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
After hinting for some time to my fiance, I was thrilled to receive these as a Christmas gift. I've used them over the past few weeks and have been thrilled with the quality of the optics. Scrutinizing some Bohemian Waxwings from 30 feet away revealed great detail and color richness. The adjustable locking eye cups are a great feature. The hard rubber exterior is strong and offers a good grip. The only negative review I have to offer is similar to others; the lens caps are cheap and are beneath the level of these fine binoculars. For the money I challenge anyone to find a better pair.

great optics, questionable construction

Rating: 3 out of 5
Weight: 5.0 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I bought these to replace a pair of Pentax 8x42 WP's which I had scratched. For the money, I don't think you can do any better for optical clarity and resolution, in my amateur opinion. Not 'wow' better, but did seem a tad brighter than the Pentaxes. They are amazingly light and the overall ergonomics were good so I enjoyed using them. That 'quality feel' was lacking when compared to the Pentaxes, for whatever that's worth, and I don't think it was the lack of 'heft'. The twist out eye cups worked well when full out or in. The diopter ring was stiff and not so user friendly, it doesn't lock but won't likely budge anyway.
So why only 3 stars? For it's price class it deserves 5 stars, but my example began fogging internally on an Elk hunt in otherwise benign conditions. A fluke? Others on the net have noted significant variability within the model line suggesting quality control issues with these Chinese made binoculars.
I returned them to my local Cabela's and was refunded without question so did not deal with Nikon directly (25y warranty, FYI). If I can't find a better bin for similar money (considering Eagle Optics Ranger's, Vortex Vipers, Bushnell Elite e2, etc...), I may get another pair, after looking through several at the counter and doing my own 'testing' once I get them home. Hope that helps.

Pleasantly surprised.

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 4.7 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
The image is bright and sharp. Only a thin edge of blur around the outer lense, but its barely noticable or in the field of view. They're extremely easy and quick to use. The focus wheel is smooth, fast, and precise. I prefer their lite weight, but I have to plant an elbow or lean against some thing to prevent shake. The bins are smaller than I imagined. They're easy to hold and feel secure in my hands. They are cheapest in online auctions. 2/3 the cost of most web sites. I'm extremely happy with these.

Excellent

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 4.7 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I brought these about four months ago and love them. The main reason I brought them was for bird watching. I spent a bit of time researching, as I wanted a good pair of binoculars. They have a really nice fell and weigh 689grams with the strap on. I've dropped them once and there was no problem. Not long after I got them I took them with me on a Safari to Mali, Africa. The first evening I used them I was standing on a hill looking into a valley while the sun was going down. When I looked through the binoculars I could see all the villages around that were made out of mud and people where walking around their little village. Without the binoculars I could not see the small villages nor the people. The optic quality of these Binoculars is really good. They really bring the colour of the birds out. I showed my father in-law, the binoculars, who has been bird watching for 30 years and he said they were really good. For the price you pay the quality is great. Sure you could go and spend $2,000 on a pair but if you lost, broke or they got stolen then you would have a few teary nights. With these I wouldn't loose too much sleep if something happened to them. Besides the way how technology works the $2,000 optics will be < $500 within 10 years or so. I looked through a few pair of expensive ones and can't say that they deserve $2,000; yes they were better but not 5 times better. Unfortunately I couldn't buy these on Amazon as they don't send them overseas. If you live outside of the US and want to buy them go to Binoculars.com as they send them overseas at a reasonable price.

lovely lovely viewing

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 4.7 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
i have been waiting for a pair of these for almost a year, and got them just 3 weeks ago. just a great piece of optics: the weight is right (not too light to shake easily, not to heavy to tire the arms), balance is great, clear with an amzing depth of field. if you are a freak of optic tests you might notice the slightest traces of both chromatic aberration (border of dark objects on light background in extreme contrast) and spherical (straight lines slightly curve at the edge of the view)- but you only notice if you look for it, and they only cost less than 300$!
during the first week with my monarchs i saw some ducks and shorebirds- every detail of feathering was nice and naturaly colored. i gave a birder friend a little ride with them- it took him 3 seconds to "wow", and when i told him the price- he was amazed.
i am so satisfied that i just carry them with me all the time. when i read the specs of the alpha binoculars by nikon and others- i cannot justify the extra money you must pay for slightly better optics (3 to 6 times!)
the only downsides are the crappy objective caps (stitch them to the strap or you lose them the first time you go out), and the wide strap which i find too wide to support less than 700 grams. i put a narrower strap that fits nice under the shirt collar.
i reccomend the nikon monarch 8x42 with all my heart to whoever is interested in viewing the nature.

Outstanding binoculars, but ...

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 4.6 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
The quality of these binoculars is outstanding, and they are especially useful for those of us who wear eyeglasses. However, the lens caps are a real pain - just wont' stay in place, and the case provided is too small to cram in the binoculars and the lens caps. We bought a separate case to solve that problem. A great product - Nikon just needs to spend a little money to upgrade the "accessories."

probably the best you can get for that price

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 4.2 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
An excellent binocular. Great color definition, pretty bright an wide field of view, soft and rapid focussing central knob, good close focus distance and nice and practical lens caps. They also have a nice ruber covering which feels very good on your hands and may be an effective shock absorber. The case is also ok and another great feature: they weigh only 620 grams.

I finally picked up these binoculars from the Eagle Optics Ranger Platinum 8x42, which I have used before getting a very nice impression, and I can say the Nikon Monarch 8x42 are at least as good as the E.O. Ranger Platinum. I think this is the best you can get for such an affordable price and I feel very pleased with these binos.

Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42 Binoculars

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 4.2 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I have been seriously birding since 1956. I have owned three pairs of porro prism binos...this is my first pair of roof prism binos. I am in my late sixties and have developed early stages of cataracts. These glasses provide an incredible amount of additional light. My wife and I each bought a pair for under $250 each. As reasonably good binos go these are outstanding. We have birded throughout the US and also internationally. We are looking forward to having our new binos when we travel to Cape May.
br /
br /I recommend these Nikons, without reservation, to whomever is considering upgrading their optics. Good luck spotting the LBJs (aka Little Brown Jobs).

Perfect Choice for My Needs

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 4.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Wanted something to get a sharper look at the birds that feed just outside my kitchen window. I wear glasses and have terrible astigmatism. I know nothing about binoculars so I just looked through every pair I could get my hands on. After that experience the meaning of many of the binocular specs I had been reading about became (literally) clearer. I was pleased at how much more light these let in than the tiny pair I thought I wanted; yet these are satisfyingly compact and feel just right in my hands. I could easily get a large, bright circle of view despite my glasses. I could focus right up close. The image was very sharp. I don't have a sense of the utility of their depth of field, given my inexperience. I normally patronize local merchants when I can, but at a hundred dollars less, I jumped on these when I saw that Amazon had them. I am very happy with my choice. I agree however that the eyepiece lens caps have to be some kind of an inside joke. It's like the caps are left-over parts from some entirely different product.

Fantastic value! Excellent Binoculars!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.8 out of 10
Created: Oct 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I purchased the Monarch's to replace an aging pair (30 years old). The first thing that came to mind when I first used them was...WOW! The clarity is outstanding...especially for the price.
br /
br /Many prior reviewers complained about the lens caps. I personally find them very functional and not at all what was portrayed. Perhaps I have an upgraded model, but the objective lens caps are attached to the barrel and one needs to simply unsnap the covers and twist them towards the middle of the binoculars where they sit nicely until you wish to put the covers back on. The the one-piece eyepiece cover (that everyone seems to complain about) has a serpentine plastic piece between each lens cover that applies a small amount of pressure to keep the lens covered when the binoculars are at rest on your chest and easily removes for viewing. If the user wishes, he can unhook the right-hand side of the cover and let the piece hang on the left-hand strap (otherwise it will be hanging in front of your nose!).
br /
br /As other reviewers have noted, I now see things that I would have missed before. These binoculars are fantastic. Jupiter has been visible all summer (the brightest "star" in the night sky excepting the Moon) and I can actually see a few of Jupiter's moons. I needed to steady the binoculars on a door frame, but what a sight!
br /
br /For birding and other casual use the 8x42 are perfect. I personally don't think I would have been happy with the 10x42's as they would have produced a little too much jitter while viewing (I'm not as steady as I used to be).
br /
br /And for those of you who criticize that the glasses are made in China, just peel the label off. There, now they're made in Japan.
br /
br /I highly recommend these binoculars. I am EXTREMELY pleased with these Nikon's. If you have the chance to purchase these, DO IT -- You won't be sorry.

Fantastic midprice binocular

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.8 out of 10
Created: Jun 11, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I started looking at the Monarch when I was originally shopping for a quality binocular to assist me when doing bird photography. I bought a Leica Ultravid 10x42 at that time. I later bought the 8x42 Monarch to use whale canoeing and for knocking around, and they are very impressive for the price.
br / The image quality is excellent edge to edge (not exceptional like the far more expensive models, but truely excellent). They are very light weight and well made. They are easy to adjust (I need slight diopter adjustment for my eyes and can quickly reset them when sharing them with other people). The eye cups are easy to adjust and also easy to remove and clean (like when they get full of peanut skins and shells at a baseball game).
br / I normally keep these in my car and they come in very handy.
br /
br /If you are looking at less expensive models, seriously consider spending a little more for the Monarchs. Ifyou are looking at more expensive models, these are worth considering also. They pack a lot of optical quality and most of the build quality of the top models into these for a very attractive price.

Natural balance

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.8 out of 10
Created: Apr 23, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
A great value for waterproof glass. The one attribute for an 8x that comes from the elegance in design here; balance. At this magnification, it's important to have stabilization, and with this 8x42, comes naturally. The optical quality is Nikon, alright.

great buy

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.6 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Just back from Peru, with time spent in both jungle and mountains. The Nikon Monarch ATB binoculars performed exceptionally well in all light conditions. No fog up in humid conditions of jungle or cloud forests. Attached lens caps were a real plus. Compared them to the guide's $2,000 pair and feel I got a better bargain.
br /

You get what you pay for

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.6 out of 10
Created: May 31, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
These binoculars are probably at the sweet spot price quality wise. For the money you probably won't find a better pair of binocs. And if you pay more the quality won't be that much better for the extra cash. These things are NICE!
br /What really impressed me was my son's reaction. He's in his twenties, been in the Army, traveled the world, and is very perceptive and sensitive to quality. That said, he's quick to criticize some of my suggestions/purchases. So he was visiting, sitting out in the back yard one morning, and I handed him the Nikons. He views a bird in a tree and says, "These are really nice!"
br /My bottom line: if you can afford them, buy 'em.

Impressive

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.4 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I bought these binos after extensive internet research. While not an optics expert, I really like these. Images are very, very sharp and plenty bright. Lightweight and fairly compact. Only downside is the rear caps are completely useless. Bought them for my wife for birdwatching. Highly recommended if your budget allows.

Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42 Waterproof Binocular

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.4 out of 10
Created: Jul 8, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
i am truly impressed by this product. i have been an avid birder/bird watcher for years. not until i bought the Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42 Waterproof Binocular did i realize that i was out in the field with less than adequate binoculars. the clarity is phenomenal. i am able to spot birds quickly with less focusing. i truly recommend this binoculars to anyone interested in wildlife viewing.

Almost perfect field binocs

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: Nov 14, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I am a wildlife biologist (mostly birds) who uses binocs for work all the time. I ordered the Nikon monarch 8x42s after losing my previous pair (same model) in the field. They are the best binoculars for the money in my opinion, plus they are lightweight and pretty rugged as binocs go. They have changed the design since my first pair, now instead of having guaranteed-to-lose cheap covers for the lenses, the have attached the lenscaps to the binocs with a little plastic strap (not in the photo on amazon). At first I was happy with this improvement, unfortunately after 1 month one lenscap has broken off and the other strap is tearing and will probably go soon. Why they don't give you decent lenscaps is beyond me. If you use these a lot you will probably lose the caps, be warned. Still a great product for the money though, my favorite field work binoculars. Get a lenspen or some wipes to keep them clean since they don't have caps!

Bright and sharp

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: May 27, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
These binoculars deliver very good performance for the price. Their size and weight are easy to hold and carry. The eye cups provide progressive, effective relief. Objective and eyepiece covers are funky, but work well when installed. The image is bright and well-aligned. Focus is very good, but suffers from a bit of spherical aberration across the field of vision. All together, the binoculars work well and are a pleasure to use.

Second Purchase

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: May 11, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I bought the first pair last year before going on vacation. My wife and I were so pleased that this year I bought a second pair so that we each have one. Nuff said.

Excellent product

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
After a lot, really... a lot, of research i finally decided on these binocs and very happy i did. They are much smaller than i imagined and the clarity is incredible. A Coworker has a $1500 pair of binocs and i think these are right up there with regards to quality and much lighter which is important. Spending ~$300 was more than i wanted but i think these will last me a lifetime and well worth it.

Great binoculars

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
They are fairly light, comfortable to wear around your neck, and their optics are excellent. In short, I doubt if you could beat their quality for anything like the money.

Love my Nikon Monarch Binoculars!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: Sep 3, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42 Waterproof Binocular
br /
br /Purchased these binocs from Amazon about 3 weeks ago - I wear glasses and have always struggled with binocs - these are wonderful! Am a birder and can't believe how much I've missed before getting the Nikon. They are very lightweight and feel comfortable in my hands. Would highly recommend these to anyone who wears glasses - Thank you, Nikon, for an excellent product....... After 2 1/2 months, I still LOVE MY MONARCH!!

Incredible optics!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: May 22, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
The optics are exactly what you would expect from Nikon. The image is exceptionally sharp. They are also very lightweight and easy to focus. A great value for the money! I would highly recommend them.

New eyes!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.2 out of 10
Created: Apr 18, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Our new Nikon Monarch binoculars exceeded our high expectations. Images are crisp and easily focussed. Using them is like getting a new eyeglass prescription.

Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42 Waterproof Binocular

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Excellent optical quality, sharp edge-to-edge. Bright, no chromatic aberration is noticable. Easy to carry, handle. Excellent value! It delivers 85% of the quality of a very high end item for 1/4 the price. Recommend highly to birders and other nature-lovers.

Love Them

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 5, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Pros:
br /1. Crystal clear magnification
br /2. Great compact design.
br /3. I love the weather proof design (I don't feel like I have to baby them).
br /4. Great price.
br /
br /Cons:
br /1. The lens covers leave a little to be desired. The cover on the business end always wants to come off. The covers on the other end are hanging on by a little piece of plastic, you know that wont last the years.
br /

Gret Binocs, But Hold Onto the Eyepiece Cover!!!

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Oct 15, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Terrific optics, for the price, and works great with glasses. Only shortfall is the eyepiece cover, which is easy to lose --- which I already have --- even after it is attached, as designed, to the strap.

Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Oct 14, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Impressed with optics for the price. Clear view and easy to use with glasses as noted in other reviews.

Nikon Binoculars Made In China

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Sep 19, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I bought these binoculars based upon reviews I had seen by people who use binoculars in a serious way. The optics seem to be extremely good - clear, bright views that far exceed my old binoculars. However, I was dismayed to see that, stamped on the frame, was "Made In China". I mean, when you spend this kind of money to buy a Nikon product, you would expect it to be made in Japan. Hopefully their quality control is such that it won't make any difference but it may take years to know. The good news is, I understand that these binoculars have a fantastic warranty where Nikon will repair or replace them for almost any reason for 25 years.

Good "eyes"

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Sep 5, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I found these to be relatively compact, and easy to use. I like to photograph nature from horseback, but, my eyes aren't what they used to be. I ride in fairly rugged terrain, open forests, and brushy areas. These binoculars allow plenty of light and allow me to see critters in the brushy areas close by as well as across the next canyon. I have owned several pairs of competitors binoculars in different sizes and these are by far the best and easiest to use.

Great pair of binoculars

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Sep 2, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
My husband loved the binoculars. The picture is clear and for the price was a good deal.

core product is terrific, extras are a little weak.

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jul 21, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I bought these after seeing them very highly rated on a consumer rating site. I've just used them a couple of times, and find they are everything promised- easy to focus, focus very close up, quite light and comfortable. I find it a little difficult to get the interpupillary distance just right (that is, the distance between the eyepieces so there isn't a shadow around the field of vision) and it tends to alter while being carried so has to be fixed repeatedly. But that's getting easier with practise. The only complaints I have are with the 'extras'- like the snap-on eyepiece protector which is designed to be fixed on the strap. It doesn't stay on the eyepieces so doesn't actually provide any protection while walking with them- and the thin plastic slot that holds it on the strap tore the first day out. The product logo (a tiny bit of plastic glued on the binocs themselves) came off the first day- not that it serves a purpose, but for the price these cost you don't expect things to fall off! And the strap is difficult to put on and to adjust.
br /
br /Overall, I think I would buy these again and recommend them- but I wonder why the manufacturers would have poor-quality stuff on such a high-quality piece of equipment?

Perfect for My Needs

Rating: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jul 16, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Needed a pair for a trip to a tropical locale. Pretty much perfect...only fault...lens cover is a little too loose to be useful.

clear vision

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
The binoculars is easy to focust and very clear, Very light not heavy for hiking and bird watching, love it very much.

Good views

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
We used the binoculars to view the lunar eclipse last night and had a great view of the moon in shadow as the eclipse progressed. We used three different pairs of good quality binoculars to watch the moon and the view from the Nikons was the best! We're looking forward to many hours of birding, watching other wildlife and sightseeing in Alaska this summer. The light weight, overall size and magnification will suit our needs well.
br /

great binoculars

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Just bought two pair of these Nikon binoculars for a trip to antarctica.
br /They are excellent value for the money. The image is crisp and crystal clear and sharp. Relatively compact in size, with great light gathering ability. I feel like they were the equivalent of glasses that were considerably more expensive.

Nikon binoculars

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
The Nikon binoculars are a fine choice. High quality at a reasonable price. Easy to use, good light gathering, crisp optics.

Excellent value

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 25, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
These are great for those who wear glasses - plenty of eye relief. Has great close range focus. Only complaint is the almost worthless lens cover.

Bright enough to see the birds!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jan 28, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I'm a novice birder who was growing frustrated with my compact Bushnells. They were cloudy and not bright enough to get a good look at birds in the woods. These Nikons are wonderful! Bright, nice-sized field of view, lightweight, comfortable in my hands, quick focusing. Now I can actually find the bird quickly in my binoculars and get a bright, clear view of it. I searched for a long time to find the right combination of price and performance. These aren't too pricey and, for me, work as well as the $1200+ Swarovskis I borrowed from a friend once.

Nikon Monarch Binoculars

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jan 12, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Before buying these Nikon binoculars as a Christmas gift for my girlfriend, I asked the advice of my birding friends. Among them are people who travel to foreign countries to bird watch for hobby and for science, who work for U.S. Fish and Game, and for a local environmental NPO. All recommended these binoculars.
There was a single mild dissent, however. One expert suggested that Nikon's Monarch 10 X 42 was a better choice than these, the 8 X 42's. Nevertheless, as my girlfriend is a novice to field binoculars, I worried the extra magnification would result in an unsteady image for her. (On a walk, siting a white-throated swift, my intuition was confirmed.) But consider them both.

Fine binocular and great value for the money

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jan 7, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
My wife and I have been birders for many years and I wanted to get her a great binocular without breaking the bank. I googled binocular reviews and found The Cornell Ornothology Lab which is part of Connell University. They rated the ATB Monarchs the best bet in a mid proced set. I've used a very expesive German binocular and you know what, these are better for less than 1/3rd the cost. Very good light gathering in low light conditions and sharp as a teck from 6' to infinity. I highly recommend these.

Jeff

industry standard

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jan 5, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
We have 2 of these and have bought pairs for family members. We're avid birders and my wife is a field primatologist who spends months at a time in the rain forest and even when cost isn't an issue, this is her pair of choice. You can spend a lot more and not get any better a pair. The 8x42 is the right balance for her conditions (field of view, brightness, weight) but you can't go wrong with any of the Monarchs.

Nikon Monarch 8X42 Binocullars

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 20, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I received the binoculars within 5 days without paying for special shipping. A+ condition- Highly recommended seller.

Great product, even better value

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 16, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Delivery was quicker than promised and the contents were packaged and protected well. When all was added up, including shipping and handling, I could not find anyone to match Amazon's price.
br /
br /I debated getting the 10 power and was unsure if I'd made the right choice until I used the 8x42. The binocs give a good field of view with images that are very bright, allowing detail to come through even in low light. Also, with my unsteady hands the 8 power was a good choice for viewing stable images. For my purposes, detail is more important than added magnification. I wear glasses and the focal length is right on. I'd buy these again without hesitation.

Nikon Monarch Binos....Awesome

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Dec 13, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I have had the Nikon Monarch 8 x 42 binos for a few months now. Primary use has been hunting whitetail deer in NC across long fields (800+ yards) and out west glassing for mule deer. Secondary use has been bird watching mostly at close range (20 yards and in).
br /
br /I did extensive research for about 4 months before I purchased the binos. I also got on the Cornell Ornithology website and looked at their reviews as well. The Nikon Monarch's were the number 1 bino for less than $1,000. I had looked at binos up to about $600 which I put as my limit. It came down to this and a Pentax model. I got the right binos! They were cheaper than the Pentax with better glass and feel.
br /
br /My mom has some Swarovski's that go for about $1,800 (she is a bird-a-holic). My mom was very impressed with the binos and to be honest I couldn't tell much of a difference from her Swarovski's (it was midday, so early or late I'm sure you get a bit more light in the S's).
br /
br /The ocular lens cover is one piece and slides to one side of the neck strap when you're using them (no caps to lose). The ocular lenses have twist out eye pieces for use without glasses (they are firm not flimsy soft plastic--took a little getting used to--a day) and twist down for the eye pieces to be flush for use with glasses, (found this to be key midday when I needed sunglasses to view northwest).
br /
br /The objective lenses are protected by lens covers that snap into place but have individual leashes that are connected to the bottom of the binos. I found this to be a great asset when still hunting (nothing to fall off or lose and easy to keep the bino protected).
br /
br /They fogged the first morning on the OUTSIDE of the ocular lens--no problem with the inner tubes. I realized that in 10F weather I needed to keep the binos next to my chest inside my outside layer to keep them just warm enough not to fog when I put them next to my eyes...true to all binos. It rained the next day and I was still hunting so they got plenty wet with no worries.
br /
br /For use in a stand, sitting, or with a rest these are perfect binos! I found the 8 power to be my limit for a really stable picture at long distance. I just got into a routine where I would glass while leaning against a tree or take a knee. I found that I can sweep slowly and steadily, but it was a bit harder to keep the jitters down on a specific target (could be a bit of buck fever too). If I were getting binos just for still hunting (slowly moving and stalking) I think I would go with a 6 x 42. For glassing from stable positions this pair is money. They are also perfect for bird watching. No issues with jitter at close range.
br /
br /I can't tell you all enough how good these binos feel and the quality of the glass. They are very compact, feel lighter than they are, and have great light emissivity. Don't go with a smaller objective lens...the 42 isn't too big and awesome early morning and evening. For any price these are great binos...at this price it really is a steal.
br /

WOW !!! DEFINITE BUY !!!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Nov 19, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
After reading numerous reviews on Amazon and checking Consumer Reports reviews(they had rated these tops for the price range)I decided to take a chance on these. I can say that these are without a doubt the absolute best I have ever seen in this price range. I have purchased many many other sets over the years, including one very expensive pair by a famous German company (Starts with a S and ends with an R):)
br /These blow them all away !!! Even the set that was 3 times the cost.
br /The clarity and ease of use is amazing.
br /Don't let the eyepiece comments on other reviews stop you from getting your hands on the last pair of binoculars you will probably ever buy.
br /A simple "soak and mold" in hot water will shape the covers to a perfect snug fit over the eyepiece.
br /Buy a set ASAP and see what you have been missing, and your wallet will still have enough in it to get the other goodies on your X-Mas list.
br /Absolutely blown away by these ! You will be too !

good birding binos will not disappoint

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Nov 15, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
A month into use and I can say that these are great binoculars for the price point. Brightness, clarity, and colors are noticeably good and provides for a satifying birding experience. I can see why the product has received so many positive reviews.

Beautiful Binoculars

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Nov 3, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I recently purchased these binoculars and am very happy. The image quality is excellant and they are very light. Also, the price was very reasonable. I am very happy using Amazon.com and they will be the first place I look.

fantastic bins, highly recommended

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Oct 24, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Lightweight. Lens caps are attached. Great for bird watching. Good in dim conditions. Fantastic value for money.

Nikon Monarch ATB 8x42 Waterproof Binocular

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Oct 16, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Just what I expected from Nikon. As a retired professional photographer, I used Nikon equipment for years. I found their products to be very well made and reliable. These glasses for their size are very light, which makes them great for hiking. As a long term investment, in a good binocular, the money is well spent.

Don't leave home without them!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Sep 26, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I bought these to use on our African safari after reading many positive reviews. I noticed that our Safari Guide also used the Monarch ATBs - and no wonder - these binoculars are fantastic! You really noticed the difference in low-light conditions (dawn and dusk) and with these we were really able to spot all of the wildlife- from elephants to birds. We even put my camera up against the lenses and were able to use the binocs as a kind of passable "zoom" lens for photographs. Buy them - they are worth every cent!

Great product

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Sep 16, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Checked out this pair at a local sporting goods store so I knew what I was buying. The price was right and the product that I received was excellent. Quick delivery.

Excellent quality for the price

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Sep 15, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I bought these binoculars for observing wildlife on a recent trip to Alaska. I couldn't be more satisfied with them! They are lightweight and comfortable for carrying while hiking. I never missed a sighting of a bald eagle or a whale spout. Since returning home, I've used them at several NFL games and was pleased with the resolution and clarity. I didn't want to make a $1000+ investment in Swarovski's (the absolute best). I can't recommend these more highly for recreational use!

Great Binocs

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Aug 30, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Very happy with these Nikon's plus I got $50 of product for purchasing during promotional period. Seller is authorized reseller so you get the bonus. This would be a perfect gift. Best product, best price, can't beat it.

Best bang for the buck

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Aug 28, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Terrific. Lightweight,great in low light, easy focusing, close up and long range,best bang for the buck. I use outdoors saltwater conditions, tropical rain forest, watching the neighbors. R Warren Emerald Isle NC, Lake Arenal Costa Rica

Used in High Arctic

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jul 15, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I purchased the 8X42 Monarchs for my wife to use on a trip to Svalbard in Arctic Norway. Her eyesight is not good and she had problems finding things in our other binoculars - perhaps too powerful. The 8X42 Monarchs worked flawlessly - she was able to enjoy polar bears, walruses and other wildlife at a distance. They maded a significant contribution to the enjoyment of her trip!

Excellent product

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Jun 17, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I already have a 5 yr old monarch and I love it. This new one has a new lense covering that can be kept on or off but the lines are the same as the 5 yr old model. I love this binocular because when you lift it to you head it's almost like a light is on in the binocular. The clarity is great and field of view is wonderful on the 8X42. I love it for birding and any other extracurricular activity!

I love these!

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Apr 19, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I just love these. These binoculars are really easy to use with eyeglasses. Also the focus easily and are light and easy to handle. I use them for my new hobby, birdwatching... oh, sorry birding!
br /Yeah, what others have said about the lens covers is true.

Best binoculars for the money...

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Apr 16, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
These are great all-around binoculars, offering superb performance and sturdiness for the money. Only higher-end glasses like the Zeiss Victory, or the Leica Trinovid (which I also own) outperform the Monarch - for almost 10 times the money.

High Definition

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 3.0 out of 10
Created: Apr 6, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
Am just an amateur birder but wanted to upgrade my binoculars. After reading many reviews decided on these. The first glimpse through the lens confirmed the very positive remarks about quality and clarity. I compare them to High Definiton TV while my other glasses were like a TV with an antenna. I have taken these glasses into the field and have been very happy with the results.
br /

Great

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 2.4 out of 10
Created: Aug 30, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
They present a clear and sharp image. When I girl watch I can clearly see the facial expressions on their faces.

Extremely poor packaging on the part of Amazon.

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 2.0 out of 10
Created: Apr 16, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
The binocuar box was simply placed in a larger box by Amazon with no packaging material or protection. The binoculars appear damaged from the USPS throwing the box around during shipment based on the condition of the shipping box. I'm unable to view thru both lenses of the binocular without getting a black encrochment. I attempted to provide feedback to Amazon thru their webpages but was unable to do so.

Excellent quality

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weight: 1.7 out of 10
Created: Apr 4, 2008
Mark As: Useful, Not Useful
Thanks for your feedback
I have used the ATB 8x42 for about five months now. Great great quality and I really like the overall ergonomics.