Top Waterproof Ranking Updated: January 2010
Nikon 7430 Monarch 8x42mm All-Terrain Binoculars
102 Amazon Reviews
 Price: $299.95  Compare Prices | 
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| IntelliReview Summary: These all-terrain binoculars from Nikon were liked by most reviewers at Amazon, who left a five star review because of the performance and the price. Other features mentioned were the great optics and the lightweight construction of these binoculars. Only very few reviewers left less than five stars with their review. These people mentioned that there may be a quality control issue that allows malfunctioning units to be shipped. When you look at the overwhelming number of positive reviews, however, you realize that many people were more than happy with these binoculars that don't weight too much and are great for hunting and other outdoor activities, whatever they might be.
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Nikon Action 16x50 EX ATB Binocular
39 Amazon Reviews
Price: $310.95 $156.09 Compare Prices | 
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| IntelliReview Summary: The reviews at Amazon for these binoculars from Nikon contained mostly four and five star ratings because people were so pleased with them. From the optics to the quality construction, there were many things people liked. On the negative side, they were said to be a little large, but with the small price and great view more than made up for the slightly large size. At least one reviewer said it was the best way to get the most bang for your buck when you're buying a pair of binoculars. They were said to be very much worth the extra money because Nikon had really good optics and a great reputation as a company who knows how to make products that last. One reviewer said they survived a safari in Africa and were the envy of most other people on the trip.
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Nikon 7238 Action Ex Extreme 8 X 40 mm All Terrain Binoculars
30 Amazon Reviews
 Price: $212.95 $109.00 Compare Prices | 
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| IntelliReview Summary: There was practically no negative reviews at Amazon for these binoculars. In fact, most reviews had a five star rating. From bird watchers to hunters to housewives, everyone seemed pretty pleased with these binoculars from Nikon, especially at this price. Consumers reported that they were the perfect size. They also pointed out (again and again) that they were very clear, even when zoomed in quite a bit. Overall, most seemed to agree that these are one of the best pairs of binoculars at this price range - including some of those a little bit more expensive. They were also said to have a very solid feel, which is important, especially if you're going to be using them frequently.
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In addition to the IntelliReview ranking, try one of these searches:
Latest with the Most Buzz (released within 6 months, sorted by total positive reviews) Top Bargains (1-5 stars, sorted by discount) See More...
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Canon 18x50 Image Stabilization All-Weather Binoculars w/Case, Neck Strap & Batteries
37 Amazon Reviews
Price: $1122.89 Compare Prices | 
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| IntelliReview Summary: These all-weather binoculars were a big hit with consumers who took the time to leave a review at Amazon. In fact, nearly all of the reviews were for four or five stars because people liked the durability and the power of these binoculars. Some went as far as to say they were incredible. There was one single star rating that complained about faulty image stabilzation, but this appeared to be an isolated problem for the most part. Some said these were the best binoculars they had ever used. The technology was said to be top notch. While they're slightly more expensive than other binoculars, they were said to be worth the money.
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Canon 10x42 L Image Stabilization Waterproof Binoculars
24 Amazon Reviews
 Price: $1199.00 Compare Prices | 
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| IntelliReview Summary: The fact that these binoculars from Canon are waterproof was one thing that attracted some people to them. And once they got them, they were equally impressed with the overall quality. In fact, nearly all of the reviews at Amazon have been for five stars - with a few four stars thrown in as well. This is because of the high quality of the lenses, the distinct look and style of these binoculars, and the price. While some would consider the price high, others know that these are available for a great price considering the power and quality of the binoculars. The image stabilization was also mentioned as another positive.
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Canon 15x50 Image Stabilization All Weather Binoculars w/Case, Neck Strap & Batteries
23 Amazon Reviews
 Price: $933.45 Compare Prices | 
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| Spotlight Review from an Amazon Consumer: "Outstanding. Amazing. Terrific. Any questions?" I've had these binocs (Canon 15x50 IS) for two weeks now and am regretting my purchase . . . . regretting that I didn't buy them years ago, that is! So far I have put them to work for aircraft spotting, watching hawks soar high overhead, looking at the moon, and general observation of distant terrain. These are by far the best optical instrument I've ever had the pleasure to use. The Image Stabilizer feature is truly outstanding. It allows you to really reach in on astounding views, and enjoy them with rock solid stability. For example, to focus in on a Boeing 747 that is still 5 miles out on final appoach, and clearly watch it extend its landing gear in all its glory of doors opening, wheels articulating, and doors closing . . . then enjoy watching it float through See more the air until WHOOOOOOSH it's upon you, is awe-inspiring! And fun!
Another pleasant surprise. The binocs came with two years of extended warranty from Canon free -- three years in total. I wasn't expecting that, but it was in the box when it arrived. Cheers to them! Prior to buying, I compared the Nikon 14x40 Stabileyes and Canon 15x50 and 18x50 IS binocs and tried them extensively, back to back to back, indoors and out. The Canon's seemed a bit brighter than the Nikon's (as they should be at 15x50 vs. 14x40), sharper, they are more compact although perhaps a bit less robust, and thanks to more heavy discounting and the rebates, they cost about $350 less. The Canons are more highly regarded in the various enthusiast sites as well (both the birders and the astroheads love 'em). The Canon 18's cost $200 more than the 15's, and seemed just a bit "jitteryier" (is that a word?). I am planning to use these for daytime aircraft spotting as well as the night sky, so the 18's just seemed a "bit much" for my needs. The 15's seemed perfect. Great price from Amazon . . . . $799, before a $100 mail in Canon rebate and a free $50 Amazon gift card. Net cost of $650 is a great deal -- enough so that I justified overnight shipping! Cheers to Canon for a job well done! See less
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Steiner 7x50 Marine Binocular
10 Amazon Reviews
Price: $329.99 $299.99 Compare Prices | 
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| Spotlight Review from an Amazon Consumer: "Buy these binoculars. You won't be sorry. " I ordered these binoculars for boating and it was like growing a new pair of eyes. The quality starts with the box they come in. The sports focus system is so easy to set and so useful compared to continually readjusting as with other binoculars that it makes using them a pure pleasure. You can find yourself just lost in gazing at one thing after another. The clarity is superb. The great light transfer into your eyes in low-light conditions makes you wish you had natural night vision. My pair has attached protective rubber caps to cover the glass when not in use. The warranty is great and be sure to register the serial number. The price offered by Amazon is on par with the lowest price I've been able to locate on the Internet, and a lot better than many. The included strap will hurt See more you after a short while so do yourself a favor and buy a Steiner floating, cushioned strap (presently also available at Amazon). It will save your neck and keep them floating if you drop them overboard. Don't like the bright yellow or orange color? Wrap your favorite cloth over it.
This is a best buy. Happy viewing. See less
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Nikon ProStaff ATB 8x25 Waterproof Binocular
11 Amazon Reviews
Price: $180.95 $94.99 Compare Prices | 
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| Spotlight Review from an Amazon Consumer: "Great Light Binoculars" A real light and well made 10 x 25 waterproof binoculars ! Great for sporting events, plays & operas ! Highly recommended small portable binoculars ! I bought them on Amazon when they were on sale for $99 ! However, for $149, I would suggest the Oberwerk 11 x 70 or 15 x 70 ! The Oberwerk is much larger but still light, 3 lbs, enough to hand hold ! The mechanics & optics are outstanding !!! They have been reviewed in many articles by experts and for the money cannot be beat !!! They are much larger, but so is the view !!! To really enjoy them, you will need a tripod & ball or pan head combination. It will have to support 6 pounds plus in order to have a firm shake free support. If you are looking for great power binoculars, the Oberwerks See more are for you !!! See less
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Brunton Eterna Monocular 6X30
9 Amazon Reviews
Price: $192.99 $94.58 Compare Prices | 
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| Spotlight Review from an Amazon Consumer: "Reliable and compact" I've had my Eterna for over two years now and it has handled everything from working on military ranges to treading through wetlands and climbing (backpacking) through Texas, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, California, Mississippi, and Alabama. I haven't taken it rafting or anything like that, so could not attest to how it would hold up in that environment. I do know that it can handle pretty much anything a Marine or Geologist could throw at it since I've been both. What I like best about this product is that it is compact and it doesn't fog up. I've used it to site in and safety ranges to deployment of wetland crossings and outcrop recon when gathering geologic data.
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Celestron Oceana 7x50 WaterproofIR/ RC Binoculars with Rangfinder Scale & Backlit Compass
4 Amazon Reviews
Price: $169.99 $133.54 Compare Prices | 
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| Spotlight Review from an Amazon Consumer: "For the money, maybe the best 7x50's out there" I have written a long review on the Steiner 7x50 Commander V Binoculars. Much of what I wrote in that review applies to these binocs, as they are still 7x50's...... so if you are trying to decide if 7x50 is right for you, then read that review on amazon. If you want general information on selecting the right binoculars, my Canon 10x42L binocular review is more detailed and explains many of the technical issues of binoculars in general. All visual optics are a function of their optical design, build quality, and mostly their visual experience.....then, you compare all this to the selling price. Clearly, these binocs are simply spectacular for their modest price. I could nit pick a few items, but the price / quality is so exceptional, it would be unfair to Celestron. See more They packed a lot of quality in these binocs for an amazingly low price, thanks to a good optical design, well executed build quality, good QA and an amazing warranty.
Are there better 7x50's? Sure..... but they are often much more expensive, $300 + and the differences in quality will not justify the price differentials to the avg person... as very small gains in image quality / features, often will increase the selling price 2x - 5x. BTW, these binocs demonstrate to me, just how good Chinese optical manufacturing is becoming through the years. 15 years ago, these binocs could have NEVER come out of china with this much quality. Of course, some of the credit must go to Celestron for the design and the QA. Of course, my comments are directed to the non compass version of these binocs also. See less | |||||||
