I say this because they are available at a large discounted price in both the UK and USA. (If you are in the UK it is well worth taking a look at the 9X25 version in particular, which is currently available at better than half price)

Warehouse express currently have the Nikon 9×25 Travelite V CF Binoculars on offer for £69.00 which is better than half price (RRP £150.99):
Nikon Travelite V Binoculars on Warehouse Express

At the time of writing, all the Travelite V series binoculars from Nikon are available at discounted prices on Amazon.com. For example the 8X25mm V Binoculars have list price of $128.95, but are currently available for $79.96:
Nikon Travelite V Binoculars on Amazon.com

The Travelite V Series

Available in 5 different models, all with compact 25mm objective lenses and ranging in magnification from 8 to 12x. All come in a porro prism design and with a host of quality features that you would normally only expect to find on far more expensive optics. Including an ergonomic body made from light and durable carbon fibre with a tough rubber armor coating and aspherical lenses that minimise distortion and provide sharp images up to the periphery.

Further Information

• About Nikon Binoculars
• About Nikon Travelite V Binoculars

If you live in the US, there has never been a better time to buy a Nikon 8×32 EDG binocular, one of the finest pair of binoculars available and and ideal safari binocular. Let me explain:

The Nikon EDG 8×32 Binocular has a list price of $2,700.95, but you can now buy it for just $999.00, that’s a massive saving of $1,701.95 (63%). As a point of reference, I have just checked and the same binoculars are being sold on Amazon for $1,294.95.

But there is more….

Nikon are currently running a promotion known as Take it to the EDG, where they will send you a free D3000 camera kit with 18-55VR Nikkor lens worth $549.95 when you buy a Nikon EDG binocular or spotting scope.

So not only can you get fantastic binocular at a great price, but you get a camera totally free! This deal is great for everyone, but is absolutely ideal for anyone going on safari as these are the two essential pieces of kit that you need.

Where to get this Deal

You can get the Camera kit so long as you buy the binoculars from any authorised dealer in the US, but to get the great price, you need to buy it from Eagle Optics, who are approved Nikon dealers.

Nikon 8×32 EDG Binoculars on Eagle Optics

Question

I have recently relocated to a coastal resort where the scenery is constantly changing and we are lucky enough to have local marine life like our resident seal. I would love to purchase a pair of binoculars so that I may enjoy it more. I only have a small budget and have seen a pair of Nikon Action VII 10×40 Binoculars, that seem ideal for a novice like myself. Would you recommend these for a first time buyer who has absolutely no idea what features to look for?

Answer

I have just had a look at their stats and these are a few of the things I have noticed:

Things I like about the Nikon Action VII 10×40 Binoculars

• I like the fact that thy have aspherical eyepiece lenses that decrease distortion when compared to normal eyepieces.
• I like your choice of a powerful 10x magnification for wide open areas like places with coastal views.
• The price is pretty good

What I don’t like about the Nikon 10×40 Action VII Binoculars
I am a little concerned about how well they will perform in poor light conditions as they have slightly smaller than usual objective lens diameters – The Nikon Action VII 10×40 has 40mm’s whilst most full size binoculars usually have 42mm ones. What this means is that a 10×40 binocular has an Exit Pupil of 4.0 and a Twilight Factor of 20, for comparison a more standard 10×42 binocular is 4.2 and 20.5, which is only slightly different, but would mean that a 10×42 should perform slightly better in low light conditions. This is not an issue if you don’t really plan on using them when the light is very bad and it does have the advantage of making the binocular slightly smaller and lighter.

If you are worried, maybe consider the Nikon Action 10×50 Binoculars, which have a similar price tag, larger 50mm objective lenses, exit pupil of 5.0 and a twilight factor of 22.4 – making them pretty good in low light conditions. They also have a wider field of view and more eye relief – which is only really important if you wear glasses. On the down side, the 10×50′s will be bigger and heavier than to 10×40′s.

They have Multilayer-coated lenses, which is not bad, but could be better – I would have liked to seen them being fully multi-coated, rather than just multi coated which implies that most, but not all air to glass surfaces have been coated.

Conclusion
I would say that your choice of a porro prism binocular rather than a roof prism one at this price point is a good one – generally cheap porro prism binoculars are a little better as they are technically easier for the manufacturer to get right.

Overall, I would say that for their money about £76.69 (on amazon.co.uk) / $63.39 (on amazon.com) they are a pretty sold binocular and should work well enough for you.

Possible Alternatives
I am not sure where you live, but if it is in the UK, you may wish to consider the Barr & Stroud 10×42 Sierra (not yet available in the US) that I recently tested, the cost a little more about £91 (on amazon.co.uk) but I think for the amount make really good value.

I also already mentioned the Nikon Action 10×50 (view on amazon.co.uk / view on amazon.com), which is a good idea if you want better performance in poorer light conditions, but are not too worried about size.

This weeks question comes from a South African, who often visits game reserves in South Africa and in particular the Kruger National Park:

Question

I live in South Africa and regularly go to game reserves and, in particular, Kruger National Park. I am looking to buy a decent pair of binoculars in the next few weeks as I am going to Kruger at the end of the month.

I have done some research and have basically narrowed it down to 2 options:
1) Bushnell Natureview
2) Nikon Monarch ATB

I see from your reviews that you like both of them but would like to enquire if you would have any reason to prefer the one over the other?

Also I have heard that 8x is better than 10x for game viewing use, would you agree with this?

Answer

First off let me just say that I really envy you, I have been to the Kruger a few times, it is a wonderful game reserve with an astounding amount and variety of game and birdlife. Also because it is so vast, there are plenty of places to get away from the crowds, where it gets truly wild.

Basically what you are after is a good wildlife observation binocular and If I had to choose between the Bushnell Natureview and Nikon Monarch ATB, I would probably go for the Nikon. They have a closer minimum focusing distance, longer eye relief and weighs less. In my opinion, they also have a nicer overall feel to them and just that little better build quality.

You may also wish to take a look at the Barr & Stroud 8×42 Savannah Binoculars that I have just reviewed, an excellent binocular at a similar price (actually cheaper). They also do a 10x version, but I am not sure if they will be available in SA?
Also worth looking at is the Minox 10×42 BV Binoculars, there is also an 8x version: Both are really good binos again in the similar price range to the Nikon Monarch ATB.

8x or 10x for Wildlife Observation?
I personally prefer a 10x magnification when I am in the bush.

Compared to 10x, you get slightly less “image shake” with an 8x binocular, although unless you have really shaky hands, this should not really be a factor.

8x binoculars also generally have a wider field of view compared to 10x ones. This can be useful for spotting and keeping in view fast moving objects, like birds for example, but for larger game, I just like the slightly bigger magnification that gets me as close to the animal as possible. This is just a personal preference and I am sure you will be fine no matter which you choose.

Full Size Binoculars
The fact that you are choosing binoculars with a 42mm objective lens, rather than a more compact size is good as they generally giver you a slightly brighter and often sharper image.

For safari binoculars, I usually recommend that most people should go for a more compact binocular. But then most people are travelling from overseas and carrying a larger binocular with all your luggage can be a little more difficult. Although if you plan on doing any walking safaris, and you also carry a camera with you, you may still consider a smaller binocular.

Photo Credit: Arno & Louise

Like their old versions, the EDG series will still feature Nikon’s fantastic ED glass (Extra-low Dispersion), dielectric high-reflective multilayer prism coating and advanced multilayer coating.

A Bridge Too Far?
The biggest difference is in the styling, the 2010 version of the EDG now only has one bridge between the two barrels, whilst previous versions had two – see images below:

Main features:

Nikon’s legendary ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass lenses effectively compensate for chromatic aberrations to provide images of superior contrast and outstanding resolution.

A dielectric high-reflective multilayer prism coating is applied to the roof prism that does not feature total internal reflection. This boosts light reflectivity of more than 99% (designed value) for the full visible range, giving you clearer whites and a sharper, brighter, more natural vision across the entire field of view.

Phase-correction coating: Phase shift of light is caused by phase differences arising from total light reflection on a roof (Dach) surface. Phase-correction coating is applied to the surface to minimize loss of resolution, ensuring high-contrast images. Read more about this in an article I wrote on Phase Correction in Binoculars.

Eco-glass optics, environmentally safe materials: All lenses and prisms are free of lead and arsenic.

Horn-shaped detachable eyecups: As with previous EDG binoculars they feature the excellent ergonomically designed horn-shaped eyecups that block peripheral light to give you a clearer field of view.

Waterproof and fogproof construction features a nitrogen-filled body with O-ring seals making them Waterproof up to 5 m/16.4 ft. for 10 minutes.

More Information

• Full Review of the Nikon EDG 10×42 Binoculars
• Full Review of the Nikon EDG 10×32 Binoculars
• Full Review of the Nikon EDG 8×32 Binoculars
• Buy and Compare Prices on Nikon EDG Binoculars
• Guide to Nikon Binoculars

Nikon Take it to the EDG Promotion
Make no mistake these are great binoculars and there is possibly no better time to get yourself a pair as Nikon currently have a promotion where they will send you a free Nikon D3000 Digital SLR camera worth $549.95 with any purchase of a Nikon EDG Binocular or EDG Fieldscope.

Get a FREE Nikon D3000 Digital SLR Camera Kit worth $549.95 with any purchase of a Nikon EDG Binocular or EDG Fieldscope.

Yes, you read it right, Nikon will send you a free D3000 camera kit with 18-55VR Nikkor lens if you buy a Nikon EDG binocular or spotting scope from an authorised dealer Nikon EDG dealer.

But hurry, the Nikon’s Take it to the EDG promotion ends on October 31st 2010.

Where can I get this offer?
The two major binocular online retailers in the US are also authorised dealers of Nikon EDG Binoculars and Fieldscopes which is great news:

Nikon EDG on Binoculars.com

Nikon EDG on Eagle Optics

So not only can you now get some of the best binoculars ever reviewed on Binocular Reviews, but you also get an excellent DSLR camera as well. This is a truly great offer, but especially great if you are planning on going on safari or any other wildlife holiday as now you can get both essential pieces of equipment for the price of one.

The full terms and conditions are available from the above retailers, the main ones being that the offer ends on October 31st 2010 and is offered exclusively for consumer purchasers of new eligible Nikon EDG products (see below) imported by and distributed for retail sale within the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands by Nikon Inc., Melville, New York. Purchases made in or delivered to other countries are ineligible.

Eligible Nikon EDG Binoculars

• Nikon 8×32 EDG Binocular – Read Full Review
• Nikon 10×32 EDG Binocular – Read Full Review
• Nikon 7×42 EDG Binocular
• Nikon 8×42 EDG Binocular
• Nikon 10×42 EDG Binocular – Read Full Review

Nikon EDG Features
Nikon’s exclusive and legendary ED glass lenses (Extra-low Dispersion) deliver superior sharpness and color correction for unmatched detail resolution with Dielectric coated prisms meaning that Nikon’s coatings deliver brighter views. The optics are fully multicoated meaning that there are multiple layers of anti-reflective compounds on every glass surface for bright, vivid sight pictures.

The design of the binocular has open bridge style which is ergonomic making sure the binoculars balance perfectly in the hand for extended use. A quick, central focusing knob has been paired with pop-up diopter adjustments for unparalleled speed and convenience. The Horn-shaped detachable eyecups are ergonomically contoured to block out peripheral light for a clear field of view on top of this you get a long eye relief with ratcheting eyecup adjustments that allow for a perfect view, with or without eyeglasses.

All EDG Binoculars are O-ring sealed making them 100% Waterproof and fogproof as they are dry nitrogen filled to handle the toughest conditions on the planet.

If binoculars are not your thing, then the offer is also valid with Nikon EDG Fieldscopes:

Eligible Nikon EDG Fieldscopes

• Nikon 16-48×65 EDG Fieldscope
• Nikon 16-48×65 EDG Fieldscope
• Nikon 20-60×85 EDG Fieldscope
• Nikon 20-60×85 EDG Fieldscope

Related Articles on Best Binocular Reviews:
Nikon EDG Binoculars
Nikon EDG Binoculars – Value for Money?
Nikon EDG Instruction Manual (pdf)

Question:
I have decided to purchase a pair of Nikon Monarch 12×42 binoculars but am confused. In the shops I have seen DCF binos, but most, if not all, of the info on the web talks about ATB binos. Could you please explain the difference between the two?

Answer:
You are right, depending on where you go the Monarch range from Nikon are marketed as ATB, DCF or sometimes both. I had a look around on the web and as far as I can tell they are the same binoculars, I just think originally they were marketed differently in different countries.

On my review of the Nikon Monarch 8×42 Binoculars, I mention that they are marketed as ATB (All terrain binoculars) in the USA and DCF in Europe, but I think there is now a cross over, which is causing the confusion.

On the main Nikon UK and global websites they do not mention ATB anywhere in connection with their Monarch range and possibly, for what ever reason they are not using that term any-more.

So my advice to be safe by making sure that you are getting the latest version, I would get the ones marketed as Monarch DCF binoculars.

I hope this helps and please if anyone knows any more information, please drop me a line or leave a comment below.

• Buy &; Compare Prices for Nikon Monarch Binoculars

Nikon EDG Promotional Video

According to Nikon, the EDG is “an exceptional binocular dedicated to those whose adventurous spirit and dedication to success demands performance above all else.” They also go on to say “Nikon EDG is an optic that not only expands the limits of technology and precision, but that is refined by nearly a century of glass-making heritage.” So they are clearly proud of them, so lets take a look at what exactly is under the hood:

There are 6 models available within the range:

• Nikon EDG 7×42 Binoculars
• Nikon EDG 8×42 Binoculars
• Nikon EDG 10×42 Binoculars – Read Full Review
• Nikon EDG 8×32 Binoculars – Read Full Review
• Nikon EDG 10×32 Binoculars – Read Full Review

I especially like the sound of the 32mm binoculars and have tested a similar configuration in the Kowa Prominar Genesis XD Binoculars where they too have a few models that have a similar 33mm diameter objective lenses making them really light and compact, but because they use superior optics still plenty bright enough to be used in most situations.

The EDG Optics
All of the binoculars within the EDG range feature Nikon’s own ED Glass (Extra-low Dispersion) that are said to completely eliminate chromatic aberration, or the dispersion that occurs when light rays of varying wavelengths pass through optical glass. So because of this binoculars that have the Nikon ED glass produces brilliant, high resolution images that are extremely bright, razor sharp and free of flare. The optics are then dielectric coated with multiple layers of anti-reflective compounds on the glass surface to produce even sharper and brighter views. These high end optics are not cheap to produce and so it is easy to see why the binoculars themselves are not cheap.

The EDG Body
I am not sure if you can use the words sexy and binoculars in the same sentence, but for me the Nikon EDG binoculars are sexy, on top of this the body is fully waterproof and fogproof, with an ergonomic open-bridge design making them well balanced and a pleasure to hold, combine this with the rubber coating, they just feel right in your hands and should be able to easily absorb the inevitable bumps that they will get from outdoor use.

A neat feature that is now becoming popular with most top of the range binoculars is a Dual Focus Knob that has a pop-out diopter adjustment. This means that they have a central focusing knob that also has a pop-up diopter making for quick focusing as well as convenient diopter adjustments. You just pull out the knob for the diopter adjustment and push it back in for normal focusing.

Discounts on the Nikon EDG

Because these are the top of the range binoculars, they are never going to be cheap, but if you are planning on getting yourself some of the best binoculars available, now may just be the right time. Whilst researching for this article I noticed that there are some significant discounts available out there on all of the EDG range.

A few examples:

• The Nikon 8×42 EDG Binocular has a list price of $2,850.95 and Amazon have them listed for $1,899.95, saving you a massive $951.00 (33%)
• The Nikon 8×32 EDG Binocular has a list price of $2,700.95 and once again they are listed on Amazon for $1,749.95, meaning you save $951.00 (35%)

Check out these and other discounts below:
Nikon EDG Binoculars on Amazon.com

So whilst most top end binoculars can cost a lot, you do get much more binocular for your money. The quality of the glass used in the prisms is better, the quality of the coatings on the lenses are better and the materials used in the construction of the casings is the best that money can buy. This is not to say that you can’t get quality binoculars at a cheaper price, but if you can afford it binoculars like any of those in the Nikon EDG range will not disappoint. Just make sure that you also look out for discounts like those listed above where you can sometimes make substantial savings, bringing the price down to the same prices as optics of a much lower quality.

For more information:
Nikon Optics: Nikon Scopes & Binoculars
Download the Nikon EDG Binoculars Instruction Manual

Nikon 7218 Action 10X50 Binoculars
Amazon.com currently have the Nikon Action 10X50 Binoculars on sale at $80.71. With a list price of $134.95, that is a great saving of $54.24 (40%)

Nikon 7257 10 X 50 MM Realtree Action Camo Binoculars
These are on sale at $100.96. With a list price of $154.95, that is a saving of $53.99 (35%)

Nikon 7245 Action Ex Extreme 10 X 50 mm All Terrain Binoculars
These are on sale at $138.51. With a list price of $254.95, that is a saving of $115.44 (45%)

To check out the deals, follow the links below

US Shoppers
Nikon Action 10×50 Binoculars on Amazon.com

UK Shoppers
Nikon Action Binoculars on Amazon.co.uk

Main Features of the Action Series from Nikon

I have not yet had the opportunity to personally review any of the Action binoculars, but according to Nikon and their specifications these Porro Prism binoculars are ideal for general outdoor uses, like birdwatching, viewing sports events, mountaineering, camping and hiking as they are both tough and durable. According to Nikon these midrange binoculars offer impressive cost performance, even at their full asking price. There are eight models in total within the series all with varying combinations of magnification and objective diameter including two zoom models. This means that you should easily be able to find the most suitable binoculars for your particular needs. Remember the models featuring a broader field of view are ideal for watching fastmoving sports, birds and animals.

• Aspherical eyepiece lens eliminates image distortion
• Multilayer-coated lenses and large objective diameter for optimal clarity of image
• Rubber armouring for shock resistance and a firm, comfortable grip
• Can be fixed to a tripod using optional tripod adaptor (Action 16x50CF includes tripod adaptor)

Download a PDF brochure of the Nikon Action Series here

With the state of the world’s environment featuring more and more in peoples awareness, it was only a matter of time that binocular manufacturers cottoned onto the idea that if they produce Eco Friendly Binoculars, not only would they be helping to save much of the nature we are looking at through their products, but also score some brownie points with the environmentally concious consumer in the process – everyone is a winner.

10×25 Nikon Ecobins Binoculars
Nikon are one of the first to realise this with the release their Nikon 10×25 Ecobins compact binocular.

These neat little compact binoculars are not only made with lead and arsenic-free Eco-Glass, a non-chloride rubber body uses no harmful inks or dyes, but also come in environmentally friendly packaging that is produced from sustainable Eucalyptus forests and manufactured with minimal waste and have a travel binocular case that is 100% all-natural Lenzing TENCEL® fiber.

For more and to find out if they are actually good binoculars, take a look at my detailed review of the: Nikon 10×25 Ecobins Binoculars