Steiner Observer 10x42

The 10x42 configuration on this particular Steiner Observer model, as well as with their fully multi-coated, high contrast optical system and rugged exterior combine to make for a versatile binocular which can very effectively be used in a variety situations, but is one that really excels in wide open spaces where you are observing wildlife, people or objects at fairly long distances in all but really poor light conditions.

It is at these longer ranges that the reasonably powerful 10x magnification gets you closer to the action, but at the same time, it is not so great as to make the image difficult to keep still in your hands.

At 100 meters wide over a distance of 1000 meters, the field of view on these is not bad but it does fall a little short when compared to an 8x binocular and it is for this reason that these are best used in open spaces and at longer distances where it is easier to follow a moving subject.

The perfect uses for these Steiner binoculars include most outdoor wildlife and nature observation that includes hunting and even certain types of birding like along the coast or at a lake where the distances are a little greater and the light levels are generally good.

Made in Germany to very high standards, these binoculars have a number of excellent features. For instance, the outer surface is covered in a special NBR Long Life rubber armouring that not only provides added protection and grip but is very resistant to the oils and acids that are often transferred by your hands onto a binocular which can result in the hardening and perishing of the rubber on many other binoculars.

Added to this, Steiner uses an extremely tough material known as Makrolon to make the housings. Very lightweight, yet able to withstand large forces and impacts it adds another layer of protection to the delicate optics contained within. This chassis is also fully sealed and then filled with dry nitrogen gas making sure it is both water and fog proof for use in the very worst weather conditions possible.

The ergonomic shape makes these a comfortable binocular and working in unison with the rubber armour and Steiner’s Fast Close Focus mechanism allow for rapid, yet stealthy observations with effective sound absorption to ensure you don’t reveal your position or frighten away wildlife at the critical moment.