Want to see something far away up close ? Grab a pair of binoculars. Want to see something far away even closer ? Grab the Nikon Action Zoom XL 10-22 X 50 binoculars !

Binocular 101
For those who do not know what the numbers mean, here’s how to interpret them (Binocular 101). The first number before the “X”, tells you how much magnification you can expect. IE:10 X 50, would indicate you are holding a ten power binocular. If the binocular has a set of numbers (10-22 X 50) before the “X” you are holding a variable power binocular. The number after the “X” indicates the size of eyepiece in millimeters. The larger the number, the easier it will be to look through. I know any optical engineers reading this will be screaming “No ! No ! You’re wrong ” But hey, this is binocular 101, OK?

Case and Accessories
My new binoculars came with a nicely padded heavy woven case with a velcro fastener and a large belt loop. The case is suitable for casual use and is by no means intended for serious outdoor use. If you will be taking these hiking, birdwatching, fishing or hunting and expect bad weather keep them in your backpack until you are ready to use them.

What's In The Box
You’ll find the owners manuals,lens covers, tripod adaptor, and a traditional neck strap included the box, and the strap will be fine for casual use. Personally, I prefer a shoulder harness to suspend the binoculars in front of my chest. I also purchased the Allen Deluxe Binocular strap (Available at Dick's Sporting Goods - but not on their website.)to carry my new Nikon’s around.

Wow Factor
There is one especially nice accessory included which increases both the functionality and the “WOW” factor and this is a tripod adaptor. Now, here is why: all variable power optics will be a bit ”shaky” on the high settings. The image will be only as stable as you can hold the binoculars. Nikon has included a nifty bracket which screws into the front of these binoculars and permits you to fasten them onto a camera tripod. Put the binoculars on the tripod, set the tripod in front of your chair, and now your viewing will be nice and stable.

Features
Ok, now about the binoculars. The casings are what Nikon refers to as a “Tactile Rubber Armor”, meaning it’s hard yet soft to the touch. The metal parts have a black anodized finish and the build quality is excellent for the money. Exactly what I would expect from a company like Nikon. Lenses have anti-reflective coatings to provide optimum brightness and high contrast. Casings are blackened internally to minimize light loss.

Feel and Balance
When you pick up this binocular you will notice the feel of this instrument is superior than most others in it’s class. There is a fine balance to this tool. Right in front of the strap anchor points are ergonomically shaped hollows for your thumbs. And it is easily controlled by just thumbs and fingertips. When you look at the eye pieces of these binoculars you will notice degree markings at the right of the pivot point. These come in handy when two people share the binoculars as most peoples eyeballs are not the same distance apart. Just remember your setting and adjust before viewing.

Clarity of Vision
This binocular will focus easily and quickly thanks to a large diameter knurled knob (Try saying “Knurled Knob” three times real fast !)located on the center pivot. There is a diopter control to adjust the focus of the left eye piece as the eyeballs of most folks do not have the exact same acuity of vision. You use this feature by focusing the binocular using your right eye, then close your right eye and adjust the diopter on the left eyepiece. Open both eyes and what you see will be clear and sharply focused. I tried these in the rear of the store back in the Lodge department at Dick's Sporting Goods and I was able to read price tags about two inches high 248.5 yards away (It’s a really, really, big store ! ) on the other side of the store ! What’s that ? How do I know how far away the tags were ? Because I used a
Nikon ProStaff 440 Laser Rangefinder, that's how !
(See the review I wrote about my buddy's rangefinder, the
Cabela's CLR800 Rangefinder).

Zoom, Zoom, Zoom
The zoom control falls readily to your right index finger and has a smooth range of motion from the one o’clock (10X) through five o’clock (22X) positions. The lever’s movement is not stiff but it will require a deliberate action on your part to reduce accidental adjustments.

The zoom feature is one of the reasons I bought this particular binocular. If you are birdwatching, you use them on the 10X setting to acquire the bird you want to look at then slowly slide the zoom lever for better identification. The same holds true for watching sports. Use the 10 X setting for watching running plays and zoom in for the snap or kick of the ball.

The Wrap Up
If you choose to purchase these fine binoculars for your self I will let you know they are not rated as “water proof” or “water resistant”. You want water resistant binoculars ? You’ll have to spend a lot more money. Consider the MSRP is about two hundred bucks. You’ll find them at any Dick’s Sporting Goods for $149.99. If you can wait a bit before getting them they can be found for about $119.00 not including delivery. I would strongly recommend these to anyone. Nikon has a world renowned reputation for quality and it shows in the design and function of these particular binoculars. You’ll find a 25 year “No-Fault” warranty printed right on the side of the box. You won’t be disappointed ! ‘Nuff said ! Get off yer butt and go get ‘em !



Recommended: Yes