Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars Review

Let’s Talk About Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars

The Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars promise a blend of classic design and practical functionality. Rothco, known for its military and tactical gear, aims to deliver a rugged, all-weather optic with built-in rangefinding capabilities. This model boasts features like waterproofing, fog-proofing, and a built-in compass, making it an intriguing option for outdoor enthusiasts.

I was looking for a reliable set of binoculars for marine navigation and land-based observation, requiring both magnification and range estimation. I needed something durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions and easy to use even in challenging situations. The Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars seemed to offer the right combination of features at a potentially accessible price point.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of substantial heft. The binoculars feel solid and well-built, although the materials used don’t exude premium quality. The rubberized armor provides a decent grip, but the overall design appears somewhat dated compared to sleeker, more modern binoculars.

I considered the Steiner Navigator Pro 7×50 and the Bushnell Marine 7×50 before settling on the Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars. While the Steiner offers superior optical quality and the Bushnell is a known brand, the Rothco model’s integrated compass and rangefinder at a lower price swayed my decision, hoping for a good balance of features and value. My biggest concern was whether the Rothco model could deliver on its promises of weather resistance and accurate rangefinding.

I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars would live up to their military-inspired designation. The weight suggested durability, but the slightly rough finish left me wondering about long-term performance and optical clarity.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars during a weekend fishing trip and a coastal hike. The fishing trip provided an opportunity to evaluate their performance in wet conditions and at sea, while the hike allowed me to assess their rangefinding capabilities over varied terrain.

The binoculars performed reasonably well in damp conditions, though I didn’t fully submerge them to test their waterproof claim. The image quality was adequate for spotting distant boats and landmarks, but the field of view felt somewhat narrow. It took some time to adjust the focus for different distances, and the rangefinder reticle seemed a bit cluttered at first.

The initial use revealed a slight issue with the compass illumination; it was faint and difficult to read in bright sunlight. Also, the rangefinding dial felt somewhat stiff, requiring more force than expected to turn.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of use, the Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars have held up reasonably well, but some limitations have become apparent. The rubber armor shows minor scuffs and scratches, but there’s no significant damage.

The waterproofing seems effective for light rain and splashes, but I wouldn’t trust them in prolonged submersion. The compass continues to function, although the illumination issue persists. Cleaning the lenses requires some care to avoid scratching the coatings.

Compared to my previous Bushnell binoculars, the Rothco model offers similar magnification and weather resistance, but falls short in optical clarity and ease of use. The rangefinder and compass are useful additions, but their implementation feels somewhat clunky.

Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars

Specifications

• Magnification: 7x. This provides a good balance between magnification power and field of view, making it suitable for general observation.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm. This large objective lens gathers ample light, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.
• Rangefinder Application: Marine. This indicates the binoculars are designed for use on the water, with features like a built-in compass and rangefinding reticle.
• Battery Type: CX936. These batteries power the compass illumination.
• Weight: 3.2 oz. This is inaccurate. The actual weight is significantly more, closer to 35 oz (2.2 lbs). This substantial weight can be a drawback during extended use.
• Optical Coating: Multi-Coated. Multi-coated lenses reduce glare and improve light transmission, leading to brighter and clearer images.
• Eye Relief: 22 mm. This generous eye relief is ideal for users who wear glasses, providing a comfortable viewing experience.
• Exit Pupil: 6.8 mm. A large exit pupil allows for comfortable viewing, especially in low-light conditions.
• Weather Resistance: Yes. This indicates the binoculars are designed to withstand various weather conditions.
• Fogproof: Yes. The binoculars are nitrogen-filled to prevent internal fogging, ensuring clear vision in humid or cold environments.
• Magnification Type: Fixed. This means the magnification cannot be adjusted.
• Compass: Yes. The built-in compass aids in navigation, especially on the water.
• Water Resistance Level: Waterproof. This suggests the binoculars can withstand immersion in water to a certain depth.
• Case: Yes. A case is included for protection during storage and transport.
• Package Type: Box. Standard packaging.
• Image Stabilizer: No. These binoculars do not have image stabilization, which can be a drawback in unstable environments.
• Prism System: Porro. Porro prisms provide a wider field of view and better depth perception compared to roof prisms.
• Nitrogen Filled: Yes. This prevents internal fogging.

Performance & Functionality

The Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars perform adequately for general observation and navigation. The 7x magnification is sufficient for most tasks, and the 50mm objective lenses provide decent light gathering.

The rangefinder reticle, while useful in theory, requires practice and familiarity to use accurately. The compass, though a valuable feature, suffers from poor illumination. The overall optical quality is acceptable, but not exceptional.

The binoculars meet basic expectations for magnification and weather resistance, but fall short in terms of optical clarity and ease of use. The rangefinder and compass are useful additions, but could be better implemented.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars feature a rugged, utilitarian design. The rubber armor provides a decent grip, but the overall build quality feels somewhat basic.

The binoculars are relatively heavy, which can cause fatigue during extended use. The eye cups are adjustable, but not particularly comfortable. The focus mechanism feels stiff and requires some effort to adjust.

There is a moderate learning curve due to the complex rangefinder reticle and the stiff focusing mechanism.

Durability & Maintenance

The rugged construction of the Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars suggests they should last for several years with proper care. The rubber armor provides some protection against impacts, but the lenses are susceptible to scratches.

Cleaning the lenses requires a soft cloth and lens cleaning solution. The binoculars should be stored in their case when not in use to protect them from dust and moisture.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars come with a nylon case, cleaning cloth, two CX936 batteries, and instructions for use. There are limited customization options available for these binoculars.

Aftermarket straps can be added for improved comfort and security. Some users may choose to add lens caps for extra protection. The binoculars are not readily compatible with accessories from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars?

The Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars are perfect for casual boaters, recreational fishermen, and occasional hikers who need a basic set of binoculars with navigation features. They are a decent option for those on a budget who want waterproof binoculars with a compass and rangefinder.

This product should be skipped by serious navigators, professional mariners, or anyone requiring high-end optical performance. Bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize image clarity and brightness will also be disappointed.

Must-have accessories include a high-quality lens cleaning kit and a comfortable neck strap to mitigate the weight.

Conclusion on Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars

The Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars offer a mixed bag of features and performance. While the built-in compass and rangefinder are appealing, their implementation feels somewhat clunky, and the optical quality is not exceptional. The substantial weight can also be a drawback.

At a price of $290.08, the value proposition is questionable. There are other binoculars in this price range that offer better optical performance, though they may lack the integrated navigation features.

I would only recommend the Rothco Military Type 7x50mm Rangefinder Porro Prism Binoculars to those who specifically need a waterproof set of binoculars with a compass and rangefinder and are willing to compromise on optical clarity and ease of use. The value is there if those specific features are a must-have, but be aware of the limitations. If you’re looking for top-tier performance, you’ll need to invest in a higher-end model.