Nikon 12x42 Monarch M5 Binoculars (Black)

The Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 performs very admirably for its price range. These binoculars manage to provide high-end optical quality and impressive brightness while shielding themselves from the astronomical prices typical to a quality set of optics.

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  Good clarity and brightness, smooth focus knob

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  Mediocre close focus range, mediocre field of view

These binoculars have exceeded my expectations on clarity and functionality. They are light, easy to adjust and did I already mention the clarity...even at extreme distances is incredible! Comes with a nice case that is soft but substantial in the padding and both front and rear glass covers.

The image is much sharper than my previous binocular, relatively light weight. Looks and feels solid. Very satisfied.

I think these binoculars are built solid and the optics are first rate. The only issues I have with them is that the Diopter Ring is very difficult to operate. The eye cup covers are loosely fitted and dont stay on. These are things that Nikon should fix.

So happy to have made the choice of the 12x42 over the 10x42. We have a Monarch 10x42 and love them but after 3 days for whale watching in Carmel, CA this week, the difference is well worth the slight increase in weight. Mostly used for wildlife observation.

These binoculars gather light and present a clear view of the birds we were viewing. The Crooked Horn strap keeps the binoculars from bouncing, yet allows me to life them quickly. I bought two pairs.

I tested about seven Nikon and Canon binoculars in person. This was clearly the best. I thought I'd prefer 8x power or 10x power. But this 12x Monarch 5 was clearly about the Monarch 7 8x power in terms of resolving details at distance.

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  Easy to use, light weight. Brought as present, husband very happy.

Four out of five because there might be better out there? I love these, they've made bird watching a delight!

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  Light and well made with fantastic clarity.

Having looked at various reviews we chose this model. It was a gift and we have heard from the recipients that the binoculars are very good for all purposes.