Nikon Monarch hg 8x42 Binoculars
With the Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, you can watch razor-sharp subjects that are far away. These binoculars have a magnification of 8 times. This allows you to quickly spot a small subject at a great distance, like a bird in a tree. If it flies away, you can easily follow its flight thanks to the wide 145m field of view. That way, you don't lose sight of it. The coatings on the lenses of the binoculars provide extra brightness and lifelike colors. The design is nitrogen filled, so the binoculars are waterproof to up to 5m deep. You can take it with you on a rainy day without problems. If you use the binoculars in a tropical environment, the lenses don't fog up.
With the Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, you can watch razor-sharp subjects that are far away. These binoculars have a magnification of 8 times. This allows you to quickly spot a small subject at a great distance, like a bird in a tree. If it flies away, you can easily follow its flight thanks to the wide 145m field of view. That way, you don't lose sight of it. The coatings on the lenses of the binoculars provide extra brightness and lifelike colors. The design is nitrogen filled, so the binoculars are waterproof to up to 5m deep. You can take it with you on a rainy day without problems. If you use the binoculars in a tropical environment, the lenses don't fog up.
With the Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, you can watch razor-sharp subjects that are far away. These binoculars have a magnification of 8 times. This allows you to quickly spot a small subject at a great distance, like a bird in a tree. If it flies away, you can easily follow its flight thanks to the wide 145m field of view. That way, you don't lose sight of it. The coatings on the lenses of the binoculars provide extra brightness and lifelike colors. The design is nitrogen filled, so the binoculars are waterproof to up to 5m deep. You can take it with you on a rainy day without problems. If you use the binoculars in a tropical environment, the lenses don't fog up.
With the Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, you can watch razor-sharp subjects that are far away. These binoculars have a magnification of 8 times. This allows you to quickly spot a small subject at a great distance, like a bird in a tree. If it flies away, you can easily follow its flight thanks to the wide 145m field of view. That way, you don't lose sight of it. The coatings on the lenses of the binoculars provide extra brightness and lifelike colors. The design is nitrogen filled, so the binoculars are waterproof to up to 5m deep. You can take it with you on a rainy day without problems. If you use the binoculars in a tropical environment, the lenses don't fog up.
in 25 offers
The lowest price for Nikon Monarch hg 8x42 Binoculars right now is $1,120.42 at eBay.com.au, compared across 17 retailers.
The all-time low was $1,120.42 on 9 June 2026. That's the lowest price we've ever tracked — a great time to buy.
Prices last updated 9 June 2026.
Last updated at 09/06/2026 18:11:41
Nikon Monarch Hg 8x42 Premium Waterproof Binoculars Japan
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Nikon Monarch 5.7 x 5.2 in. Binoculars
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Nikon Binoculars Monarch Hg 8x42 High-end Model Birdstar Watching
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Nikon Binocular Monarch Hg 8x42 42mm Dach Prism Waterproof With
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Nikon Binocular Monarch Hg 8x42 8x 42mm Dach Prism Waterproof
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Nikon Binocular Monarch Hg 8x42 42mm Dach Prism Waterproof Optics
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Nikon Binocular Monarch Hg 8x42 42mm Dach Prism Waterproof Optics
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Nikon Monarch Hg 8x42 Binoculars 8x42 Caliber From Japan
Delivery $61.29
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Nikon Binoculars Monarch Hg 8x42 Japan
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Nikon Binoculars Monarch HG 8x42 (Magnification: 8x) MONARCH HG 8x42 MONAHG8X42
Delivery between 13–20 June $115.51
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
I've been using a pair of Swarovski CL 8x21 binos for about 8 years and have to keep sending them in for repair. I decided to go with a larger pair of binos that might prove to be sturdier in the field. I just returned from a four-day wilderness trip and used the Nikon binos for wildlife and bird viewing on land and by small boat. They have consistently clear, bright viewing. It is easy to locate hard-to-see targets. The build of the binos seems sturdy without being heavy. They immediately became my favorite piece of equipment on this trip and I can see using them for many years to come. Not sure what I will do with my Swarovski binos after they come back from repair.
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
I did not order these through B&H but I was going to order from them as I’ve had great experiences with them on previous purchases. However, I found them $130 cheaper at a local birding store (surprisingly) and the state I was in had cheaper sales tax… So this is just my essay on what the HGs are like to me and for anyone doing their research on a nice pair of binos.Coming from the previous gen Monarch 5 10X42s, these 8X42s are noticeably brighter. I can’t really compare them accurately due to the difference in power…The focus knob requires a half-turn more than my Monarch 5s, so the focusing is more precise, which I like. Having used the HGs for about seven weeks the focus knob is getting smoother. Initially it got hung up/sticky for a couple weeks (which ... MoreI did not order these through B&H but I was going to order from them as I’ve had great experiences with them on previous purchases. However, I found them $130 cheaper at a local birding store (surprisingly) and the state I was in had cheaper sales tax… So this is just my essay on what the HGs are like to me and for anyone doing their research on a nice pair of binos.Coming from the previous gen Monarch 5 10X42s, these 8X42s are noticeably brighter. I can’t really compare them accurately due to the difference in power…The focus knob requires a half-turn more than my Monarch 5s, so the focusing is more precise, which I like. Having used the HGs for about seven weeks the focus knob is getting smoother. Initially it got hung up/sticky for a couple weeks (which happens with most binos new out of the box). No more sticking at this point. Ergonomics are familiar in my hand, similar to the Monarch 5s but the armouring is tighter to the body and not sticky.The build quality is fantastic! I also like the retro styling. I compared them side-by-side to the current gen Monarch M7 8X42s and optically they were very very similar, though I preferred the feel of the HGs over the M7s. To me, the current gen M7s and M5s feel and look cheap. I’m still considering replacing my Monarch 5 10X42s but I will hold on to them longer. No sense upgrading to the current gen Monarchs; the previous gen is superior in build quality and optically the same. I also compared the HGs to a pair of similarly priced Vortex Razor HDs in the same power. The Vortexes presented a noticeable yellowed image, but seemed just as sharp. I wasn’t a fan of the Vortexes. Smaller bodied, smaller focus knob and not as “finessey” as the HGs. Build quality was equal to the HGs despite being made in the Philippines. I just felt the Nikon HGs were better in the hands…The field flattener does a great job! I only notice it doing its job when I pan a landscape. There’s no odd “optical bulging” going on. Chromatic aberration is still there (seems to be a Nikon thing), but only in extreme cases. Such as, looking down on a marsh toward the sun. There is some blue fringing on bright birds like egrets and gulls when they are over-lit from harsh lighting. During the warbler migration this past spring there were a lot of cloudy days. I was still able to pick apart details of warblers that were in poorly muted lighting, way better than my Monarch 5s. The image is sharper despite the lower power of the HGs compared to my Monarch 5s.Helps that the 8X42 platform gives you a wider FOV and with the HGs they deliver top tier FOV compared to even more expensive bins! Helps to track small passerines flitting from one place to another. They don’t sacrifice too much clarity at the edges for the wide FOV. I don’t notice much falloff, maybe about 10% of the edges have a gradual drop in clarity?I removed the eye covers since I use a chest harness (Kuiu). I prefer to drop them in the pouch and lift them out without any strings attached. If I’m doing a technical hike I will attach the bins to the harness so they don’t accidentally fall out. Highly recommend people use chest harnesses when viewing for long periods of time. It will save your neck!The eyecups are familiar to me, just like the Monarch 5s I’m accustomed to. Only difference is the three-click adjustments are finer than the Monarch 5s. It seems the mechanical parts of the eyecups are metal in the HGs compared to the plastic eyecups in the Monarch 5s. I like the fact the strap attachment loops are metal as well, not that it is needed but it’s a nice supporting detail to overall build quality.Diopter is good! You pull up and adjust as needed then click down so it remains secure. The Monarch 5s just twist in place, but they’ve never moved on their own by accident. So, a locking diopter is a nice touch but not something to write home about. Get’s the job done…To sum it up, for the money (just shy of $1000 on most sites) the Monarch HGs are in a class of their own. I don’t feel the need to go to a $2000+ alpha-class bino to watch wildlife. At those price points the differences are minimal. If anything, that class will give you better low light visibility. However, if the HGs got rid of chromatic aberration all together and (I guess) had a sharper image at the edges then there would be no need for alpha glass, really. These suit me perfectly and I don’t see myself upgrading for a long time. I’ve been using the Monarch 5 10X42 for the last ten years ( bought through B&H, actually) and it wasn’t until recently I realised I wanted an 8X42 since I’ve been wearing my glasses a lot (needed better FOV). When I switch between the two there’s a significant difference in FOV. Now when I look through the Monarch 5s it’s kinda claustrophobic. I actually see more detail with HG 8X42s than the Monarch 5s. Though I’m still young and have steady hands, the 8X42 platform lets me see more fast-moving birds than a 10X42.Note, in the box they give you objective lens rings to replace the lens covers, if you feel you don't need them.Essay over.
originally posted on REI
I debated about the HG or 7 version and spent the extra for the HG optics. I'm not disappointed. Eyecups work well with glasses. Detented eye adjustment avoids frustration. Center focus has just the right amount of resistance and is right at my fingertips. Clarity is amazing. I switched from an old pair of 7x50s, so the field of view is slightly less, but there is much more light coming in due to the Nikon optics. Eyepiece covers that are retained by the neck strap are a good idea and stay put easily. Other lens covers are retained by a hinged rubber piece which is very effective, but, as others note, they are a bit frustrating to put on (don't snap right in place easily) and tend to pop off easily when bumped. However, I expect to use the eyepiece ones when hiking ... MoreI debated about the HG or 7 version and spent the extra for the HG optics. I'm not disappointed. Eyecups work well with glasses. Detented eye adjustment avoids frustration. Center focus has just the right amount of resistance and is right at my fingertips. Clarity is amazing. I switched from an old pair of 7x50s, so the field of view is slightly less, but there is much more light coming in due to the Nikon optics. Eyepiece covers that are retained by the neck strap are a good idea and stay put easily. Other lens covers are retained by a hinged rubber piece which is very effective, but, as others note, they are a bit frustrating to put on (don't snap right in place easily) and tend to pop off easily when bumped. However, I expect to use the eyepiece ones when hiking to keep debris out and leave the lens ones open. I bought a Peak Design binoc mount, which is amazing. Fits on backpack straps and gives binocs easy access, yet out of the way while hiking, and well balanced. I'd buy these again.
| Prism Type | Roof |
| Magnification | 8x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42 mm |
| Angle of View | 8.3° (Actual) |
| Field of View | 435' @ 1000 yd / 144.4 m @ 1000 m |
Nikon Monarch Hg 8x42 Premium Waterproof Binoculars Japan
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Nikon Monarch 5.7 x 5.2 in. Binoculars
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Nikon Binoculars Monarch Hg 8x42 High-end Model Birdstar Watching
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Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Nikon Binocular Monarch Hg 8x42 42mm Dach Prism Waterproof With
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Nikon Binocular Monarch Hg 8x42 8x 42mm Dach Prism Waterproof
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Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
I've been using a pair of Swarovski CL 8x21 binos for about 8 years and have to keep sending them in for repair. I decided to go with a larger pair of binos that might prove to be sturdier in the field. I just returned from a four-day wilderness trip and used the Nikon binos for wildlife and bird viewing on land and by small boat. They have consistently clear, bright viewing. It is easy to locate hard-to-see targets. The build of the binos seems sturdy without being heavy. They immediately became my favorite piece of equipment on this trip and I can see using them for many years to come. Not sure what I will do with my Swarovski binos after they come back from repair.
I did not order these through B&H but I was going to order from them as I’ve had great experiences with them on previous purchases. However, I found them $130 cheaper at a local birding store (surprisingly) and the state I was in had cheaper sales tax… So this is just my essay on what the HGs are like to me and for anyone doing their research on a nice pair of binos.Coming from the previous gen Monarch 5 10X42s, these 8X42s are noticeably brighter. I can’t really compare them accurately due to the difference in power…The focus knob requires a half-turn more than my Monarch 5s, so the focusing is more precise, which I like. Having used the HGs for about seven weeks the focus knob is getting smoother. Initially it got hung up/sticky for a couple weeks (which ... MoreI did not order these through B&H but I was going to order from them as I’ve had great experiences with them on previous purchases. However, I found them $130 cheaper at a local birding store (surprisingly) and the state I was in had cheaper sales tax… So this is just my essay on what the HGs are like to me and for anyone doing their research on a nice pair of binos.Coming from the previous gen Monarch 5 10X42s, these 8X42s are noticeably brighter. I can’t really compare them accurately due to the difference in power…The focus knob requires a half-turn more than my Monarch 5s, so the focusing is more precise, which I like. Having used the HGs for about seven weeks the focus knob is getting smoother. Initially it got hung up/sticky for a couple weeks (which happens with most binos new out of the box). No more sticking at this point. Ergonomics are familiar in my hand, similar to the Monarch 5s but the armouring is tighter to the body and not sticky.The build quality is fantastic! I also like the retro styling. I compared them side-by-side to the current gen Monarch M7 8X42s and optically they were very very similar, though I preferred the feel of the HGs over the M7s. To me, the current gen M7s and M5s feel and look cheap. I’m still considering replacing my Monarch 5 10X42s but I will hold on to them longer. No sense upgrading to the current gen Monarchs; the previous gen is superior in build quality and optically the same. I also compared the HGs to a pair of similarly priced Vortex Razor HDs in the same power. The Vortexes presented a noticeable yellowed image, but seemed just as sharp. I wasn’t a fan of the Vortexes. Smaller bodied, smaller focus knob and not as “finessey” as the HGs. Build quality was equal to the HGs despite being made in the Philippines. I just felt the Nikon HGs were better in the hands…The field flattener does a great job! I only notice it doing its job when I pan a landscape. There’s no odd “optical bulging” going on. Chromatic aberration is still there (seems to be a Nikon thing), but only in extreme cases. Such as, looking down on a marsh toward the sun. There is some blue fringing on bright birds like egrets and gulls when they are over-lit from harsh lighting. During the warbler migration this past spring there were a lot of cloudy days. I was still able to pick apart details of warblers that were in poorly muted lighting, way better than my Monarch 5s. The image is sharper despite the lower power of the HGs compared to my Monarch 5s.Helps that the 8X42 platform gives you a wider FOV and with the HGs they deliver top tier FOV compared to even more expensive bins! Helps to track small passerines flitting from one place to another. They don’t sacrifice too much clarity at the edges for the wide FOV. I don’t notice much falloff, maybe about 10% of the edges have a gradual drop in clarity?I removed the eye covers since I use a chest harness (Kuiu). I prefer to drop them in the pouch and lift them out without any strings attached. If I’m doing a technical hike I will attach the bins to the harness so they don’t accidentally fall out. Highly recommend people use chest harnesses when viewing for long periods of time. It will save your neck!The eyecups are familiar to me, just like the Monarch 5s I’m accustomed to. Only difference is the three-click adjustments are finer than the Monarch 5s. It seems the mechanical parts of the eyecups are metal in the HGs compared to the plastic eyecups in the Monarch 5s. I like the fact the strap attachment loops are metal as well, not that it is needed but it’s a nice supporting detail to overall build quality.Diopter is good! You pull up and adjust as needed then click down so it remains secure. The Monarch 5s just twist in place, but they’ve never moved on their own by accident. So, a locking diopter is a nice touch but not something to write home about. Get’s the job done…To sum it up, for the money (just shy of $1000 on most sites) the Monarch HGs are in a class of their own. I don’t feel the need to go to a $2000+ alpha-class bino to watch wildlife. At those price points the differences are minimal. If anything, that class will give you better low light visibility. However, if the HGs got rid of chromatic aberration all together and (I guess) had a sharper image at the edges then there would be no need for alpha glass, really. These suit me perfectly and I don’t see myself upgrading for a long time. I’ve been using the Monarch 5 10X42 for the last ten years ( bought through B&H, actually) and it wasn’t until recently I realised I wanted an 8X42 since I’ve been wearing my glasses a lot (needed better FOV). When I switch between the two there’s a significant difference in FOV. Now when I look through the Monarch 5s it’s kinda claustrophobic. I actually see more detail with HG 8X42s than the Monarch 5s. Though I’m still young and have steady hands, the 8X42 platform lets me see more fast-moving birds than a 10X42.Note, in the box they give you objective lens rings to replace the lens covers, if you feel you don't need them.Essay over.
I debated about the HG or 7 version and spent the extra for the HG optics. I'm not disappointed. Eyecups work well with glasses. Detented eye adjustment avoids frustration. Center focus has just the right amount of resistance and is right at my fingertips. Clarity is amazing. I switched from an old pair of 7x50s, so the field of view is slightly less, but there is much more light coming in due to the Nikon optics. Eyepiece covers that are retained by the neck strap are a good idea and stay put easily. Other lens covers are retained by a hinged rubber piece which is very effective, but, as others note, they are a bit frustrating to put on (don't snap right in place easily) and tend to pop off easily when bumped. However, I expect to use the eyepiece ones when hiking ... MoreI debated about the HG or 7 version and spent the extra for the HG optics. I'm not disappointed. Eyecups work well with glasses. Detented eye adjustment avoids frustration. Center focus has just the right amount of resistance and is right at my fingertips. Clarity is amazing. I switched from an old pair of 7x50s, so the field of view is slightly less, but there is much more light coming in due to the Nikon optics. Eyepiece covers that are retained by the neck strap are a good idea and stay put easily. Other lens covers are retained by a hinged rubber piece which is very effective, but, as others note, they are a bit frustrating to put on (don't snap right in place easily) and tend to pop off easily when bumped. However, I expect to use the eyepiece ones when hiking to keep debris out and leave the lens ones open. I bought a Peak Design binoc mount, which is amazing. Fits on backpack straps and gives binocs easy access, yet out of the way while hiking, and well balanced. I'd buy these again.
I've been looking for a second (or fifth) pair of binoculars as a waterproof alternative to my Nikon Premier SE 8x32's that I've owned and used as my primary birding bins for 15 years. A wide FOV and sharpness to the edge of the view is important to me. I purchased a pair of Monarch 7's in 8x42 a couple years ago from LL Bean. They are ok but the image through them isn't nearly as good as that of the Premier SE's. Image sharpness falls off noticeably away from the center of the image. I thought I'd give the HG's a try after looking through a friends pair of 10x42's. Though not quite up to the standard of the Premier SE's they are very close, and can be taken out in inclement weather. The twist up eyecups have the right amount of resistance and the center hinge has ... MoreI've been looking for a second (or fifth) pair of binoculars as a waterproof alternative to my Nikon Premier SE 8x32's that I've owned and used as my primary birding bins for 15 years. A wide FOV and sharpness to the edge of the view is important to me. I purchased a pair of Monarch 7's in 8x42 a couple years ago from LL Bean. They are ok but the image through them isn't nearly as good as that of the Premier SE's. Image sharpness falls off noticeably away from the center of the image. I thought I'd give the HG's a try after looking through a friends pair of 10x42's. Though not quite up to the standard of the Premier SE's they are very close, and can be taken out in inclement weather. The twist up eyecups have the right amount of resistance and the center hinge has just the right amount of stiffness too, so that the two barrels maintain the interpupal distance set by the user. Fit and finish are superb, as are the views through them. Excellent eye relief. They are a great value for the price. I took advantage of a 20% discount when i purchased them, which made them an even better deal. Now I have to make a decision every time I got out birding, do I bring the Premier SE's or the Monarch HG's?
I was looking to upgrade to a better-quality pair of binoculars, so I researched many options in the $1000 price range. I wanted a pair that was not as heavy as my old pair of Vortex 8 X 42s, plus offered good close focus and good eye relief because I wear glasses.After many hours of research, I chose the Nikons, and I am pleased my choice: Eye relief is great; close focus is about 6', which is fine. Image quality is crystal-clear; weight is several ounces less than my old Vortex binocs.I use these exclusively for birding, and I highly recommend the Nikons for this purpose.When I checked out, I decided to pay the extra $14 for expedited shipping, with the understanding that I could expect them to arrive in about 4 days. Well, imagine my surprise when they arrived ... MoreI was looking to upgrade to a better-quality pair of binoculars, so I researched many options in the $1000 price range. I wanted a pair that was not as heavy as my old pair of Vortex 8 X 42s, plus offered good close focus and good eye relief because I wear glasses.After many hours of research, I chose the Nikons, and I am pleased my choice: Eye relief is great; close focus is about 6', which is fine. Image quality is crystal-clear; weight is several ounces less than my old Vortex binocs.I use these exclusively for birding, and I highly recommend the Nikons for this purpose.When I checked out, I decided to pay the extra $14 for expedited shipping, with the understanding that I could expect them to arrive in about 4 days. Well, imagine my surprise when they arrived the very next day by Fed Ex! And I live in Arizona, on the other side of the USA from B & H's location.I am a happy birder!
When I picked these up, the first impression was : short and light weight. They are so light that I thought they were flimsy. Flimsy they are not. The magnesium chassis and the thin armor did the trick. It probably was designed also with fewer elements to save weight. I have Ultravid, EL, and SF from the big three in the same size range to compare. The HG is the smallest and the lightest.Optically, the HG is compatible to them as well. Very high resolution and sharp in the center with some distortion on the edge. The flat field is very flat in the center but not in the entire field, in this, the EL is the beat. The ED glass did their job with no color fringing I could see on par with the best alpha binoculars. Flare control is good but not the best. Use them at ... MoreWhen I picked these up, the first impression was : short and light weight. They are so light that I thought they were flimsy. Flimsy they are not. The magnesium chassis and the thin armor did the trick. It probably was designed also with fewer elements to save weight. I have Ultravid, EL, and SF from the big three in the same size range to compare. The HG is the smallest and the lightest.Optically, the HG is compatible to them as well. Very high resolution and sharp in the center with some distortion on the edge. The flat field is very flat in the center but not in the entire field, in this, the EL is the beat. The ED glass did their job with no color fringing I could see on par with the best alpha binoculars. Flare control is good but not the best. Use them at night there are flares.You really have to compare the HG with the other alpha binoculars to tell the difference. When out birding, I can not tell at all the difference other than that its light weight will not give you the stress in your neck and arms.I am not crazy with the rubber lens caps. They keep falling off. The case is also very cheaply made that is too large and ugly. The focus knob is also not the very best but they do snap into focus. The optical quality and the price however made it up for me.They are so light, I leave them in my brief case so that I can go out for a walk with them any time.
I have been interested in birdwatching for a couple of years now. I finally decided to take the plunge and buy my first pair of binoculars. I am so glad I did!I did a lot of researching before making my purchase. I could have purchased a cheaper pair. I almost did. The Nikon Monach 7 is half the price and has great reviews. But I'm glad I spent the extra money because I'm excited to go outdoors every week now --- this from a city boy raised on video games who can count on one finger the number of times he's gone camping (and hated it)!The image is incredible on a beautiful day and impressive in poor conditions. Recently I stayed out in a thunderstorm because I was having so much fun! I like that these are made in Japan, not China, which gives me more confidence ... MoreI have been interested in birdwatching for a couple of years now. I finally decided to take the plunge and buy my first pair of binoculars. I am so glad I did!I did a lot of researching before making my purchase. I could have purchased a cheaper pair. I almost did. The Nikon Monach 7 is half the price and has great reviews. But I'm glad I spent the extra money because I'm excited to go outdoors every week now --- this from a city boy raised on video games who can count on one finger the number of times he's gone camping (and hated it)!The image is incredible on a beautiful day and impressive in poor conditions. Recently I stayed out in a thunderstorm because I was having so much fun! I like that these are made in Japan, not China, which gives me more confidence in the build quality. The material looks phenomenal and feels great in the hand. There's no doubt these are a finer pair of binoculars. I also like the ability to magnify close objects. These can magnify objects 6.6' away. The Monarch 7 begins magnifying objects 8.2' away. That may not sound like a big difference, but a few times already this has come in handy.There were a couple things I was nervous about when purchasing these binoculars. One is that they might have a distracting rolling ball effect, that is, when you're scanning, you would notice a curved distortion in the image. I also read some people complain that the field-flattening technology made the image appear lifeless. I'm happy to report that neither of these things has been true. The image appears stable and realistic.My only disappointment is that I sometimes see a black crescent moon effect on the periphery. It's not a huge problem, just annoying when I notice it. It may even be my fault. My eyes are relatively close together, and I have difficulty lining up the lenses with my eyes. Someday I plan to visit a birding expo and try some of the higher-end binoculars to see if another pair of binoculars suits my face.All in all, this is easily one of the best purchases I have ever made. I truly love these binoculars! They have opened my life up to outdoor adventures like nothing and no one else ever has. What a joy! I hope you have the same experience.
This is my first pair of high-end binoculars and I did a significant amount of research prior to the purchase. All the reviews of binoculars in this price range were similar, with variance due more to each reviewer than the equipment. I went with Nikon because of the familiarity in name and their reputation.That said, I'm a tad disappointed with the purchase although not enough to make a return and exchange for another equivalently priced piece. There is no specific flaw that I can ascertain although the jump from a $100 to an almost $1K pair was not worth the price difference. Perhaps for my use, a $400+/- pair of binoculars would have been sufficient.The binoculars are well balanced and I have not noticed any imaging issues. The color of backyard birds appear ... MoreThis is my first pair of high-end binoculars and I did a significant amount of research prior to the purchase. All the reviews of binoculars in this price range were similar, with variance due more to each reviewer than the equipment. I went with Nikon because of the familiarity in name and their reputation.That said, I'm a tad disappointed with the purchase although not enough to make a return and exchange for another equivalently priced piece. There is no specific flaw that I can ascertain although the jump from a $100 to an almost $1K pair was not worth the price difference. Perhaps for my use, a $400+/- pair of binoculars would have been sufficient.The binoculars are well balanced and I have not noticed any imaging issues. The color of backyard birds appear bright and spot-on. Focusing is exceptionally easy and smooth, definitely a well-built binocular although for $1K, would not have expected anything less. Currently, the binoculars are set on a tripod following the purchase of a Nikon binocular attachment.B&H Photo, as always, provided fast and exemplary service.
This is a nice “made in Japan” binocular from Nikon. The “Field Flattener really put everything into focus. The wide field of view is excellent. I don’t see any other manufacturers with this spec. for the $1000 price point. The only complaint I have is the focus knob is too sensitive.
I got these 8x42 HG Monarch's for my wife for birding. She has also the Monarch 7 in 8x42 she had been using a few years. Here are the things she noted right away on the positive - the close focusing is notably better - the brightness is notably improved - the color rendering is slightly better. These small things can make a birding day better for sure. To me the build quality has an improved feel. We have looked through some really expensive glass while at birding events, these really do seem to rival binoculars with much higher price tags. Focus is quick with reasonably small movement of the ring (easy to go from near to far). They are slightly heaver than the Monarch 7's, she has had them out for a few hours at a time already and no complaints on the weight. If ... MoreI got these 8x42 HG Monarch's for my wife for birding. She has also the Monarch 7 in 8x42 she had been using a few years. Here are the things she noted right away on the positive - the close focusing is notably better - the brightness is notably improved - the color rendering is slightly better. These small things can make a birding day better for sure. To me the build quality has an improved feel. We have looked through some really expensive glass while at birding events, these really do seem to rival binoculars with much higher price tags. Focus is quick with reasonably small movement of the ring (easy to go from near to far). They are slightly heaver than the Monarch 7's, she has had them out for a few hours at a time already and no complaints on the weight. If your birding budget allows you will not be disappointed in these binoculars. On B&H service, they came earlier than expected and packed well. Always a pleasure to shop here!
| Prism Type | Roof |
| Magnification | 8x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42 mm |
| Angle of View | 8.3° (Actual) |
| Field of View | 435' @ 1000 yd / 144.4 m @ 1000 m |
