| | |  | Sports Electronics & Gadgets | Home » » Nikon Monarch X 8.5x45 Binoculars | | | | | | | Description: | | Nikon pushes its optical technology in its All Terrain Binocular line with features that will benefit the hunter serious about low light performance. The new Nikon Monarch X binocular series with 45mm objective lenses provide larger exit pupils for increased low light performance, while maintaining the balance and comparable weight of many competitors’ 42mm models. Available in 8.5x45 for the ultimate in light transfer and 10.5x45 for an ideal combination of power and performance, the Monarch X works equally well on tough stalks or long sits on stand. By utilizing Nikon’s advanced Dielectric high-reflective multilayer prism coatings, the Monarch X delivers a brighter, more crisp view during critical dawn and dusk periods. The long eye relief (8.5x45=20.6mm and 10.5x45=16.0mm) multi-position click-stop eyecups make using the New Monarch X a simple pleasure for any user—with or without eyeglasses. “Nikon will always be a leader in the most advanced optical technology” said Jon LaCorte, Senior Product Marketing Manager. “The Monarch X combines recent advancements such as dielectric coatings and proven lightweight yet durable body construction to create a great addition to our binocular line.” The Monarch X also features Nikon’s legendary fully multicoated optics and a rugged rubber armor design that provides added durability and a firm grip even in the worst conditions. Nikon guarantees every Monarch X to be 100% waterproof and fogproof and each is backed by Nikon's 25 Year Limited Warranty and No-Fault Repair/Replacement Policy. | | | Features: | |
• Dielectric High-Reflective Multilayer Prism Coating, Extraordinary technology delivers uncompromised low-light performance
• Fully Multicoated Lenses & Phase-Correction Coated Prisms, Multiple layers of anti-reflective compounds on every glass surface for bright, vivid sight pictures
• Durable and Protective, Rubber-Armored Coating, Provides excellent non-slip grip
• Waterproof/Fogproof, Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed
• Enlarged Central Focus Knob, New, larger size provides incredibly quick focus
| | | Product Details: | | | Product Weight:
| 1.59 pounds | | Package Length:
| 8.2 inches | | Package Width:
| 6.3 inches | | Package Height:
| 3.8 inches | | Package Weight:
| 2.4 pounds | | Average Customer Rating:
|  based on 5 reviews |
| | | | Customer Reviews: | |
Average Customer Review:
 ( 5 customer reviews )
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
6 of 6 found the following review helpful:
 Best Choice in This Price RangeFeb 19, 2012
By PhotoDad
I was recently forced into replacing my Pentax DCF SP's as a result of theft. Instead of just buying the same model, I decided to do some comparisons before buying the same ones again. When I purchased the Pentax binos several years ago they were clearly the best available in the ~$500 price range. But it has been a few years and technology and manufacturing has moved forward.
The three models I chose to compare were the Nikon Monarch X, the Pentax DCF SP (same as I had), and the Vortex Viper. Based on my testing, that would also be the order I'd put them in from best to worst.
Ability to resolve fine detail:
This is based on observing resolution charts that allow an accurate comparison, and are the same charts I use in testing my high-end camera lenses. The Monarch X was the winner. The Pentax SP's were very, very close, but not quite as good. The Vortex Viper, although more than $100 additional, was a distant third. I was surprised. I really wanted to like this bino, since its sold by an American company and made in Japan (as is the Pentax), rather than China. I was especially surprised that when the right diopter adjustment was set at neutral on the Vortex the focus did not match the left lens. For the most expensive bino of the three this is unacceptable.
Contrast and Chromatic Aberration (Purple Fringing):
This is a subjective judgment, but I found the Nikon X provided just a bit better contrast. I think that's due to the newer, better lens coating on the Nikon. All three binos exhibit some chromatic aberration if you look for it. In viewing back-lit tree branches, for example, if you look through the outside 20% of the lens you will see some purple fringing. But you have to look for it. All three are more than acceptable in this price range.
Handling:
As I went back and forth between models, I continued to be surprised at how well balanced the Nikon was. It felt lighter that the other two, but its not. Focus is fast and smooth. Most binos in this range have focusing wheels that I would describe as slightly stiff but OK. The Nikon wheel only requires a light touch, but is perfectly dampened. Overall, the Nikon X is just much more enjoyable to use. Well balanced; quick to focus accurately.
Overall:
In the end I went with the Nikon. It was a tough choice between the Nikon and the Pentax. But every time I picked up the Nikon it just seemed enough better to make the switch from what I was used to. The Pentax remains a solid performer. The Vortex was a disappointment. Image quality, construction quality and overall feel just are not up to the best of what is available in this price range.
Ultimately, I think it is hard for the smaller binocular manufacturers to compete with a company like Nikon that has the R&D resources and expertise in lens making that they do. The basic Monarch has been a winner in that price range for years, exceeding the performance of binoculars that are far more expensive. This upgraded X model follows in the same tradition.
3 of 3 found the following review helpful:
 A bargainJan 18, 2012
By R. Force
I looked at binoculars costing many times the price of the Monarch X, but couldn't see the difference. These are extremely good for birding in low light situations, such as dusk, or trying to resolve a lurker in jungle growth. The optical quality is sharp and clear from edge to edge, with no visible distortion, quick to focus. They've been dragged through downpours in Kauai and Ecuador, and ended up floating in a flooded boat cabin, proving to be truly waterproof. Perfect? No. The objective lens covers want to spontaneously detach from their attachment points, so I end up removing them and leaving them behind, which defeats their purpose. The eyepiece cover is equally irritating, and had to be tethered with a piece of string. It attaches to the neck strap, but not a harness. After seven months of intensive use, I'm pleased with their performance and durability.
1 of 1 found the following review helpful:
BinocularsFeb 03, 2012
By Glen Yeate
This high quality Nikon Binoculars are everything advertised. The clairity in low light and stability is outstanding. I will be trying these out in Costa Rica soon and I expect to enjoy them to the fullest. Great product for the money.
2 of 3 found the following review helpful:
Excellent for my challenged eyes.Dec 05, 2010
By George Lundquist
"www.costaricaretireonss.com"
I am eye challenged. These binocs give me excellent image quality for my viewing of the mountains and ocean from our patio here in Costa Rica.
The only weakness of them is the Mickey Mouse lens covers.
1 of 3 found the following review helpful:
Fairly priced and sharpDec 27, 2010
By Jeffrey Bruce Mackler
These binoculars are well balanced and nicely made. the lenses are sharp and bright. Could use better lens caps particularly on the eye pieces. I will have a better idea of their performance after my January trip to Costa Rica.
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