Steiner Predator (8x22) Binocular
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- Binoculars Type: Binocular
- Max Magnification: 8x
- Lens Coating: Multi-Coated
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Excellent Choice in Waterproof, Compact Binocular
Pros
waterproof, sturdy, compact, ergonomic
Cons
lenses are not aspherical, giving some distortion at the edges
Recommended it?
Yes
The Bottom Line:
You cannot go wrong. Outstanding choice for outdoor use in a compact, waterproof, reasonably priced, and superbly designed binocular.
I purchased this binocular after reading the above Epinions, as I was in need of a compact and WATERPROOF binocular, to take along for outdoor recreation and canoeing. I had previously owned a 6x30 pair of Steiners, and had been very impressed with their ruggedness and quality.
I would confirm everything said in the earlier Epinions. Without spending a lot more money, this is perhaps the best value in a sturdy, waterproof, fit-in-your-pocket quality binocular. Add a neoprene strap, and you have a pair that floats! One caveat: the neoprene strap I purchased for flotation was wider than the strap holder-inserts on these tiny binoculars. I solved that problem easily by mating the strap to the binocular using small o-rings, such as you might use to hold a key.
The CAT coating on the lenses is very pleasing for use on sea and land, but the absence of absolutely neutral color-rendering might be objectionable to some users, especially if used indoors. I did a side-by-side comparison to a pair of Nikon 8x23 Diplomats, which have aspherical lenses. Center sharpness seemed to be about equal, but there was a distinct fall-off in sharpness at the edges in the Steiners, which apparently do not have an aspherical corrector. The overall impression of the Nikons was sharper, and perhaps a twinge brighter due to the more neutral coating; but the Nikons are not waterproof, as compact, nor quite as easy to hold comfortably. After purchasing, I would say these Steiners are just what I was looking for outdoor use, and I remain very pleased with them.
I would confirm everything said in the earlier Epinions. Without spending a lot more money, this is perhaps the best value in a sturdy, waterproof, fit-in-your-pocket quality binocular. Add a neoprene strap, and you have a pair that floats! One caveat: the neoprene strap I purchased for flotation was wider than the strap holder-inserts on these tiny binoculars. I solved that problem easily by mating the strap to the binocular using small o-rings, such as you might use to hold a key.
The CAT coating on the lenses is very pleasing for use on sea and land, but the absence of absolutely neutral color-rendering might be objectionable to some users, especially if used indoors. I did a side-by-side comparison to a pair of Nikon 8x23 Diplomats, which have aspherical lenses. Center sharpness seemed to be about equal, but there was a distinct fall-off in sharpness at the edges in the Steiners, which apparently do not have an aspherical corrector. The overall impression of the Nikons was sharper, and perhaps a twinge brighter due to the more neutral coating; but the Nikons are not waterproof, as compact, nor quite as easy to hold comfortably. After purchasing, I would say these Steiners are just what I was looking for outdoor use, and I remain very pleased with them.
