If you’re an avid birdwatcher, nature enthusiast, or simply enjoy exploring the great outdoors, you know that having a high-quality pair of binoculars can make all the difference. The Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable, durable, and crystal-clear pair of optics. These binoculars boast impressive features, including a sleek design, waterproof and fog-proof construction, and Nikon’s renowned optics technology. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars, evaluating their performance, ease of use, and overall value.
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Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Focusing System | Central Focus |
| Magnification | 10x |
| Objective Diameter | 42mm |
| Angular Field of View (Real) | 7° |
| Angular Field of View (Apparent) | 62.9° |
| FOV at 1000 yds | 367 ft. |
| Close Focus Distance | 9.8 ft. |
| Exit Pupil | 4.2mm |
| Relative Brightness | 17.6 |
| Eye Relief | 15.7mm |
| Size (Length x Width) | 5.9 x 5.1 in / 150 x 130 mm |
| Weight | 1.325 lb / 601 g / 21.2 oz |
| Phase Coating | Yes |
| Dielectric Coating | Yes |
| Waterproof/Fogproof | Yes |
| Prism | Porro |
| Locking Diopter | Yes |
| Oil & Water Repellent Coating | Yes |
Pros
- High-quality optics produce bright, clear, and sharp images with minimal distortion
- Durable, lightweight, and ergonomic design ensures comfortable and reliable use in a variety of outdoor settings
- Fully multi-coated lenses and phase-correction coated prisms provide superior light transmission and color fidelity
- Waterproof and fog-proof construction makes these binoculars ideal for use in harsh weather conditions and extreme environments
- Rubber armoring provides a secure and comfortable grip, as well as added protection against accidental drops and impacts
- Long eye relief and adjustable eyecups allow for comfortable and customizable viewing, even for eyeglass wearers
- Comes with a convenient carrying case, neck strap, and lens covers to protect and transport the binoculars
- Affordable price point compared to other high-end binoculars with similar features
Cons
- Some users may find the 10X magnification too high for certain activities or situations that require a wider field of view
- At 42mm, the objective lens size may not be ideal for low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk, where larger objective lenses would provide better brightness
- The focus knob may be a bit stiff and require more effort to adjust compared to other binoculars
- Some users have reported minor issues with the lens covers falling off easily or not fitting securely
- While the rubber armoring provides excellent grip and protection, it may also attract dust and lint more easily than smoother surfaces.
Compare to Competition
The Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars stand out from other brands and competition in several ways:
- Superior Optics Technology: Nikon is renowned for their superior optics technology, and the Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are no exception. The fully multi-coated lenses and phase-correction coated prisms provide superior light transmission and color fidelity, resulting in bright, clear, and sharp images with minimal distortion.
- Waterproof and Fog-Proof Construction: The Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are built to withstand even the harshest weather conditions and extreme environments. The binoculars are waterproof and fog-proof, ensuring reliable performance even in the rain, snow, or humid conditions.
- Ergonomic and Durable Design: The Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are designed for comfortable and reliable use in a variety of outdoor settings. The lightweight, ergonomic design and rubber armoring provide a secure and comfortable grip, as well as added protection against accidental drops and impacts.
- Affordability: While the Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars boast impressive features and superior performance, they are priced more affordably compared to other high-end binoculars with similar features.
Key Features
The key features of the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars include:
- Maximum brightness and 10x magnification: Prostaff P7 10×42 binoculars deliver a close 10x magnification, while maintaining a bright view thanks to the larger objective lenses. The large 42mm objectives gather maximum light across a wide field of view, while 10X magnifications makes your subject appear 10 times closer with outstanding clarity.
- Optical Performance: Prostaff P7 binoculars incorporate superior Nikon optics and lens coatings for a high-quality viewing experience. Nikon’s Phase-Correction coating is applied to the roof prisms for increased definition and clarity. Nikon’s dielectric high-reflective multilayer prism coating maximizes light transmission across the visible range, resulting in brighter, sharper colors.
- Locking diopter ring keeps your setting: Often reserved for the highest-end binoculars, the diopter ring locks into place so you can set it and forget it.
- Non-stick coating for easy cleaning: An oil and water repellent coating is applied to both the objective and eyepiece lenses. Simply wipe away moisture, fingerprints and smudges.
- Waterproof down to 3.3 ft.: Whether you’re spotting birds near the water’s edge or caught in inclement weather, you won’t have to worry about Prostaff P7 binoculars. (Not intended for underwater use.)
- Lenses that won’t fog: Even going from a warm car to the cold winter air won’t fog the lenses on Prostaff P7 binoculars.
- Eco-friendly glass: The glass used in the Prostaff P7 binoculars is lead-free and arsenic-free. Better for you. Better for the environment.
- Turn-and-slide eyecups: Retract them for use with eyeglasses. Extend them to your ideal position for comfortable naked-eye viewing.
- Long eye relief: Prostaff P7 binoculars are designed with long eye relief for a comfortable, clear field of view, with or without eyeglasses.
- Tough skinned: The dark green rubber-armored body provides non-slip grip and protection from the occasional drop or bump.
- Hard bodied: The Prostaff P7 binoculars’ lightweight body uses strong fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate resin.
Who is it best for?
The Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are best for outdoor enthusiasts, birdwatchers, nature lovers, hunters, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable pair of binoculars for outdoor activities. The waterproof and fog-proof construction makes these binoculars ideal for use in harsh weather conditions and extreme environments, while the fully multi-coated lenses and phase-correction coated prisms provide superior light transmission and color fidelity, resulting in bright, clear, and sharp images with minimal distortion. The long eye relief and adjustable eyecups also make these binoculars comfortable and customizable for use by eyeglass wearers. Additionally, the affordable price point makes the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars a great option for those who want high-quality binoculars without breaking the bank.
What’s to like?
The Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are a reliable and affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Wide field of view type with an apparent field of view of 62.9°. Since it is easy to capture what you want to see, it is useful for all-round activities such as searching for fast-moving wild birds in birdwatching, following the movements of athletes in watching sports, and enjoying dynamic nature outdoors and traveling.
The fully multi-coated lenses and phase-correction coated prisms deliver clear and bright images with minimal distortion, even in low light conditions. A multi-layer coating is used for all lenses and prisms to achieve a bright field of view. In addition, the auxiliary prism is coated with a highly reflective dielectric multilayer film, and the roof prism is coated with a phase difference correction coating in pursuit of brighter and more natural color tones. The world you want to see with a clear field of view can be felt even more realistically.
The binoculars are designed to withstand harsh environments with their waterproof and fog-proof construction. The long eye relief and adjustable eyecups make them comfortable for eyeglass wearers, while the rubber armoring provides a secure and comfortable grip, protecting against accidental drops and impacts.
In addition to their excellent optics and rugged design, these binoculars are affordably priced compared to other high-end models with similar features. They come with a carrying case, neck strap, and lens covers, making them easy to transport and protect when not in use.
Overall, the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are a solid choice for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. They provide customizable features, excellent image quality, and a durable design that can withstand tough conditions. Whether you’re birdwatching, hiking, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, these binoculars are an investment that you won’t regret.
What’s not to like?
While the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars offer many great features, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider.
Firstly, some users may find the binoculars slightly heavy, especially if they are using them for extended periods of time. Additionally, the field of view may not be as wide as some other models on the market, which can make it more challenging to track fast-moving objects such as birds in flight.
Another issue that some users have reported is that the focus wheel can be a bit stiff or difficult to adjust, especially when using the binoculars with one hand. This can be a minor inconvenience, but may make it more challenging to quickly adjust focus in the field.
Lastly, while the binoculars are priced affordably compared to other high-end models, they may still be a significant investment for some users. However, we believe that the quality and durability of the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars justify the price point.
Overall, while the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars offer many great features and are a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, they may not be the best fit for everyone. Consider the potential drawbacks before making a purchase to ensure that they meet your specific needs and preferences.
What are the main differences among Nikon Prostaff models?
| Model | Magnification | Objective Lens Diameter | Field of View | Eye Relief | Weight | Waterproof/Fogproof | Price Range* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prostaff 3S 8X42 | 8x | 42mm | 377 ft @ 1000 yds | 20.2mm | 19.9 oz | Yes | $129 – $139 |
| Prostaff 3S 10X42 | 10x | 42mm | 367 ft @ 1000 yds | 15.7mm | 20.3 oz | Yes | $129 – $149 |
| Prostaff 7S 8X42 | 8x | 42mm | 357 ft @ 1000 yds | 19.5mm | 22.9 oz | Yes | $189 – $199 |
| Prostaff 7S 10X42 | 10x | 42mm | 325 ft @ 1000 yds | 15.4mm | 22.8 oz | Yes | $216 – $269 |
| Prostaff P7 8X30 | 8x | 30mm | 456 ft @ 1000 yds | 15.4mm | 17.1 oz | Yes | $179 – $199 |
| Prostaff P7 10X30 | 10x | 30mm | 346 ft @ 1000 yds | 15.4mm | 16.6 oz | Yes | $189 – $209 |
| Prostaff P7 8X42 | 8X | 42mm | 377 ft @ 1000 yds | 20.2mm | 20.8 oz | Yes | $189 – $209 |
| Prostaff P7 10X42 | 10x | 42mm | 367 ft @ 1000 yds | 15.7mm | 21.2 oz | Yes | $199 – $219 |
As the table shows, the main differences between these models are in their magnification, objective lens diameter, field of view, eye relief, and weight.
The Prostaff 3S models are the most affordable options, with the 8X42 model offering a wider field of view and longer eye relief than the 10X42 model.
The Prostaff 7S has a phase correction coating on the prisms, which is lacking in the Prostaff P7 series.
The Prostaff P7 has wider field of view, is lighter and less expensive than 7S equivalents.
Overall, the differences between these models allow users to choose a Nikon Prostaff binocular that best meets their needs and budget.
*Note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the retailer and location.
Detailed Spec Comparison of Nikon Prostaff P7 Models
| PROSTAFF P7 8×42 | PROSTAFF P7 10×42 | PROSTAFF P7 8×30 | PROSTAFF P7 10×30 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnification (x) | 8 | 10 | 8 | 10 |
| Objective diameter (mm) | 42 | 42 | 30 | 30 |
| Angular field of view (Real/degree) | 7.2 | 7.0 | 8.7 | 6.6 |
| Angular field of view (Apparent/degree)*1 | 53.4 | 62.9 | 62.6 | 59.9 |
| Field of view at 1,000m (m) | 126 | 122 | 152 | 115 |
| Field of view at 1,000 yd. (ft.) | 377 | 367 | 456 | 346 |
| Exit pupil (mm) | 5.3 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 3.0 |
| Relative brightness | 28.1 | 17.6 | 14.4 | 9.0 |
| Eye relief (mm) | 20.2 | 15.7 | 15.4 | 15.4 |
| Close focusing distance (m/ft.) | 3.0/9.8 | 3.0/9.8 | 2.5/8.2 | 2.5/8.2 |
| Length (mm/in.) | 152/6.0 | 150/5.9 | 125/4.9 | 125/4.9 |
| Width (mm/in.) | 130/5.1 | 130/5.1 | 130/5.1 | 130/5.1 |
| Depth (mm/in.) | 55/2.2 | 55/2.2 | 52/2.0 | 52/2.0 |
| Weight (g/oz.) | 590/20.8 | 600/21.2 | 485/17.1 | 470/16.6 |
| Interpupillary distance adjustment (mm/in.) | 56-72/2.2-2.8 | 56-72/2.2-2.8 | 56-72/2.2-2.8 | 56-72/2.2-2.8 |
| Type | Roof | Roof | Roof | Roof |
| Waterproof structure | Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3 ft. for 10 minutes)*2, fogproof | Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3 ft. for 10 minutes)*2, fogproof | Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3 ft. for 10 minutes)*2, fogproof | Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3 ft. for 10 minutes)*2, fogproof |
- *1Apparent field of view is calculated based on the ISO14132-1:2002 standard
- *2Not designed for underwater usage
What are other people saying about this product?
Here are a few user quotes from various websites about the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars:
- “I purchased these binoculars for bird watching and I am thrilled with them! The clarity and brightness are exceptional and they are very comfortable to hold and use for long periods of time.” – Amazon Review
- “These are hands down the best binoculars I have ever used. The images are crystal clear and the focus is quick and easy to adjust. I highly recommend these binoculars to any outdoor enthusiast.” – Cabela’s Review
- “I bought these binoculars for a hunting trip and they exceeded my expectations. They are rugged and durable, and I was able to spot animals from much farther away than I anticipated. These binoculars are worth every penny.” – Bass Pro Shops Review
- “I love these binoculars for bird watching! The colors are vibrant and the focus is sharp. They are also very lightweight and easy to carry on hikes. I highly recommend these binoculars for anyone who loves nature.” – REI Review
Overall, users seem to be very pleased with the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars, praising their clarity, brightness, durability, and ease of use. These binoculars appear to be a great option for a variety of outdoor activities, including bird watching, hunting, and hiking.
Other Alternatives
If you are looking for popular alternatives to the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars, here are a few options to consider:
- Celestron Nature DX 10×42 Binoculars – These binoculars offer a 10x magnification and 42mm objective lens diameter, similar to the Nikon Prostaff P7. They also feature a close focus distance of 6.5 feet, a wide field of view, and are waterproof and fog proof.
- Bushnell Engage DX 10×42 Binoculars – These binoculars feature a 10x magnification and 42mm objective lens diameter, with a wide field of view and long eye relief. They are also waterproof and fog proof, and feature a lightweight magnesium chassis.
- Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10×42 Binoculars – These binoculars offer a 10x magnification and 42mm objective lens diameter, with a wide field of view and long eye relief. They are also waterproof and fog proof, and come with a lifetime warranty.
These alternatives are popular among outdoor enthusiasts and offer similar magnification and objective lens diameter to the Nikon Prostaff P7. However, they may have different features and specifications, such as close focus distance, field of view, and construction materials, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a binocular.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are a reliable and high-quality option for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With their advanced optics, durable construction, and user-friendly design, these binoculars provide clear and crisp images, even in challenging lighting conditions. While they may have some minor drawbacks, such as a slightly narrow field of view and limited eye relief, they are still a great investment for anyone looking for a reliable and high-performance binocular.
If you’re interested in purchasing the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars, we highly recommend that you do so through a reputable retailer to ensure that you receive a genuine product and any applicable warranties. Additionally, make sure to read reviews and compare specifications carefully before making a final decision, and consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a binocular.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, the Nikon Prostaff P7 10X42 Binoculars are a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor experience and get a closer look at the natural world around them. So why not give them a try and see what you’ve been missing?
