Nikon @ Shot Show

We stopped by our friends at Nikon Sport Optics to review some of their 2009 product introductions. We always look forward to this visit because this company has the reputation of consistently introducing new products that really fit the needs of their customers, and this year was no exception.

We asked Jon LaCorte, Nikon’s Senior Product Manager, to give us a drive by introduction to two of his favorite 2009 items.

• First, on his list was the new binocular the Monarch-X. Built on the ultra successful lightweight frame of the Nikon Monarch this unit fits the hand like a fine sports car. It’s stylish in looks and has the super reflective prisms usually restricted to the markets most expensive binoculars.  The best I can suggest is that this Nikon Binocular is optically about as good as it gets, and with a street price of about $500 its sure to be a big hit.
• The second product reviewed dealt with Nikon’s introduction of the Coyote Special Rifle Scope, a specialty rifle scope built from the ground up with the Coyote hunter in mind. To make the scope as effective as possible Nikon developed its new Predator BDC Reticle. This reticle design is optimized for quick target acquisition on running game. A real plus for those fast moving critters.

Nikon Monarch ATB review

The Nikon Monarch ATB series is a wonderful line of binoculars developed specifically with the hunter in mind. Nikon has done a great job providing an array of sizes for just about any hunting adventure; ranging from 8×36 up to 12×56. These roof prism binoculars are small and compact with full size function and crystal clear optics. Each bino has a rugged rubber armor to protect the it from the weather as well as reduce noise by preventing any metal to metal contact. The entire line is nitrogen purged to eliminate internal fogging and has fully coated optics for the very best light transmission possible. Each binocular features adjustable eyecups for ease in viewing regardless of whether you view with or without eyeglasses. The newest feature added to the line are the flip down objective covers that snap into the barrel but can be taken out and left at home if one prefers. One neat feature that is underplayed or just plain overlooked is the ability for tripod adaption and rock steady viewing; just remove the hinge cap and screw in the accessory (not included) to any standard photography tripod you already own. The soft case completely envelopes the bino for added protection and can be looped through your belt for hiking. They come in green and black or two forms of photo realistic camo (Team Realtree and Drury Outdoor: Dream Season). The Monarch series is the flagship line for Nikon and boasts a 25 year “No Fault” warranty. You should take this line into serious consideration when about to purchase a new set of glasses for your hunting lifestyle. Nikon has certainly made a solid name for itself with outstanding camera equipment over the years, why wouldn’t they know a lot about sport optics and be able to create an excellent product for a reasonable price? Go check them out for yourself at www.nikonsportoptics.com