Nikon Monarch ATB: Reference Value Binos, Part 1

PART 1 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 8x42 and 10x42 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 enough and they come with an unimpressive carry case. Sure it'd be great to have a pair of Leicas or Swarovski 10x42 binos but they are outrageously expensive, are still heavier than the Monarch ATBs (!), and they do not represent good value. Who has an extra $2,000 to $3,000 to devote soley to ONE pair of binos?! We all have too many gear needs competing for our limited funds. But these Monarch binos will more than adequately fill your optics requirements. From over nine years experience, I can attest these Monarch ATB binos will hold their own against most other offerings and are comfortable for extended viewing sessions. They offer the best compromise of brightness, sharpness, weight, ease of use, compactness, and durability that's currently available (Nov 2008) and they will delight the majority of users with their impressive performance. ////////////////Nutnfancy Likeability Scale: 10 out of 10 //////////NOTE: Sorry for the "tinny" looking beginning; there's a problem with my movie maker outputing that for the first few seconds.

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[AK49Gunner]

OMG, just drive! It's not so cool when you run into an 18 wheeler!

[nutnfancy]

I multi-task very well but thanks for your concern.

[kraftsingle27]

Very informative as always. I don't know if you care but you messed up an annotation at 3:40.

[nutnfancy]

Thanks much...fixed it.

[redmunkee]

OMG!!! You came to my city, that's awesome. For a minute I was like, that city skyline looks awfully familiar.

[Rasenkrieger]

BOUGHT IT. On your recommendation. And I couldn´t be happier ;) :)

[rallysport26]

what band played the intro...????.....damn they're funky!! someone please hit me up!!

[vandalfan5816]

Harry Callahan would be very proud of that intro.

[mohmog33]

Nutn, do you still stand by everything you said about these binos? Have you upgraded to any other kinds or do you still roll with these? thanks.

[Deep13Deep13Deep13]

Make sure the prisms do not stop down the objectives. A counter-weight hung on the back of the strap will keep it off your neck.

Objective / magnification = exit pupil. Around 6mm is ideal for best brightness. 7mm on average is as wide as a young person's pupils will open.

[Deep13Deep13Deep13]

"Losing light" Frankly, most binos look good under perfect conditions. The key is to make them with sufficient exit pupil and clarity to be good in the woods or the rain.

[urkingod]

How do you like Nikon Eagle View ??? I have TWO of them. But now considering the Monarch. Then, I saw you doing the review on this model. Cool.

[Alphalug]

like the joke.

[supermaucat]

Awesome review! This is my favorite pair of binos as well. I like your camo colored ones... I have a pair of black ones.

Thanks Nutnfancy!