WATERPROOF BINOCULARS

Imagine that you’re out hunting or hiking along a stream. You see an animal you want to get a better look at. You reach for your binoculars and, in your haste or excitement, you fumble them. Plop! You look down to see them lying in the mud and water. But wait, all is not lost! These are waterproof binoculars. And you thank your lucky stars you spent that extra money to get them. A good pair of waterproof binoculars truly is waterproof. However, if yours say water-resistant or rain-proof, don’t drop them in the swimming pool.

Nikon Waterproof Binoculars

Nikon’s two most popular waterproof binoculars are the Action Extreme ATB (All-Terrain Binoculars) series and the Monarch ATB series. Both are sealed with O-rings and filled with nitrogen to keep moisture out. These are full-size binoculars with all the features Nikon offers, including multi-coated optics for bright, sharp images, rubber outer shell for shock-resistance and an easy grip, and a no-fault repair/replacement warranty. The Monarch ATB is also available in camouflage.

Waterproof, Fog-Proof Binoculars

Most major manufacturers of binoculars offer a waterproof, fog-proof feature on at least some of their products. In this case, fog proof means the prevention of fog inside the binoculars; the outside of the lenses may still fog up in sudden temperature changes. These binoculars are sealed and filled with nitrogen to keep any moisture out. With no moisture inside, there can’t be any fog. This feature makes them a great choice for hunters and hikers who may be out in all kinds of weather. Make sure your binoculars say waterproof on them if that’s what you want. Other terms, such as water-resistant, climate-proof, or rain-proof, don’t mean the same thing.

10X42 Waterproof Binoculars

While waterproof binoculars come in all powers and sizes, the 10X42 binocular is a very useful configuration. The 10X means that the magnification power is 10 times, and the 42 means that the objective lens (the lens at the outside end of the binoculars) has a diameter of 42 millimeters. Most manufacturers offer this power and size combination, and many of those come in waterproof versions.