Let’s Talk About Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular is not just another pair of binoculars; it’s a purpose-built optic designed for marine environments, offering a blend of ruggedness, clarity, and ease of use. Manufactured by Steiner, a name synonymous with quality optics, these binoculars promise a stable image, even in rough seas, and bright images with excellent contrast. Its open-bridge design is a modern twist that promises improved handling, setting it apart from more traditional marine binoculars.
I needed a reliable set of binoculars for offshore fishing and coastal navigation. My old pair, a generic brand, lacked the clarity and durability needed for harsh saltwater environments. I wanted something I could depend on when visibility was poor or when I needed to quickly identify distant objects, like buoys or other vessels.
Upon unboxing, the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular immediately impressed me with its solid feel. The textured rubber coating provided a confident grip, even with wet hands. The open hinge design felt intuitive and comfortable. Compared to the Fujinon Mariner 7×50 and the Bushnell H2O 7×50, the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular stood out due to its combination of high-quality optics and unique open-bridge design. I opted for the Steiners as they felt like a perfect blend of traditional marine binoculars with modern ergonomics, plus, the brand reputation for durability was a major selling point.
My initial impression was excitement mixed with a hint of anticipation. I was eager to test these binoculars in their intended environment. The clarity and brightness were immediately noticeable, but I reserved full judgment until I could put them through their paces on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular on a week-long fishing trip off the coast of Maine. The conditions ranged from calm, sunny days to rough seas with heavy fog. The binoculars proved invaluable for spotting lobster buoys, identifying distant boats, and navigating through murky coastal waters.
The rubber coating provided a secure grip even when the binoculars were wet from sea spray. The 7x magnification offered a stable image, crucial in a rocking boat. Even in low-light conditions around dawn and dusk, the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular delivered impressively bright images. The open-bridge design made one-handed operation easy, allowing me to quickly focus and identify objects while maintaining control of the boat.
Initially, I had some difficulty adjusting the individual diopters for each eye. However, once set, the Steiner-Auto-Focus feature worked flawlessly, keeping objects in sharp focus from about 20 meters to infinity. This meant no more constantly adjusting the focus as the distance to objects changed, a huge advantage on a moving boat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to saltwater, sun, and occasional bumps. The rubber coating still looks and feels new, and the optics remain crystal clear.
Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with fresh water and a wipe with a microfiber cloth is all it takes. The nitrogen-filled housing has prevented any internal fogging, a common problem with lesser binoculars. Compared to my previous pair, the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular significantly outperforms in terms of clarity, durability, and ease of use, truly making them a worthy upgrade for any serious mariner.
Breaking Down the Features of Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular
Specifications
- The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular features 7x magnification, providing a stable image, especially useful on boats. This magnification level is a sweet spot for marine use, offering sufficient zoom without sacrificing field of view.
- It has a 50mm objective lens diameter, allowing ample light to enter the binoculars, resulting in bright images, even in low-light conditions. This is critical for dawn, dusk, and overcast days at sea.
- The binoculars have an eye relief of 20.2 mm, making them comfortable to use, even for eyeglass wearers. This generous eye relief is a welcome feature for those who need to keep their glasses on.
- The linear field of view is 419 ft at 1000 yds, providing a wide viewing area to easily scan the horizon. This wide field of view helps in spotting objects quickly and maintaining situational awareness.
- The interpupillary distance ranges from 56 – 72 mm, ensuring a comfortable fit for a wide range of users. This adjustability is essential for aligning the binoculars perfectly with your eyes.
- They are fog resistant, thanks to the nitrogen-filled housing, preventing internal condensation in humid environments. This ensures clear visibility in all weather conditions.
- The binoculars are water resistant to a depth of 5 meters, providing peace of mind in wet conditions. While not designed for submersion, they can withstand splashes and rain without damage.
Performance & Functionality
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular excels in providing a clear, stable, and bright image, essential for marine navigation. The Steiner-Auto-Focus system is a standout feature. It allows users to quickly identify objects without constant adjustments.
The 7x magnification is ideal for maintaining a steady image, crucial on a moving vessel. The large 50mm objective lenses gather ample light, ensuring clear visibility in low-light conditions. One weakness is the initial adjustment of the individual diopters. Once set, the auto-focus shines, but dialing in the diopters can be slightly cumbersome initially.
The binoculars definitely meet and exceed expectations for marine use. Their rugged construction, clear optics, and user-friendly design make them a valuable tool for any boater.
Design & Ergonomics
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular boasts a rugged Makrolon housing made of polycarbonate, ensuring durability. The textured rubber coating provides a secure grip in all weather conditions. The open-bridge design enhances ergonomics. It allows for easy one-handed operation.
The binoculars are well-balanced and comfortable to hold. The diopter adjustments are slightly stiff. They are designed to prevent accidental changes. The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular features a user-friendly design with an intuitive layout. The open-bridge design is a game changer for ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable Makrolon housing and water pressure proofness up to 5m suggest the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular are built to last. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with fresh water and a soft cloth. The nitrogen-filled housing prevents internal fogging, reducing the need for frequent servicing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular comes with a neoprene carrying strap. It also includes a protective carrying case. Steiner also offers a new universal attachment system for the neoprene harness that can be easily exchanged.
There are limited customization options for binoculars, but the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular is compatible with standard tripod adapters. It makes for stable viewing on land. The included accessories are adequate for most users, but aftermarket straps or cases can be used.
Pros and Cons of Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular
Pros
- Exceptional optical clarity: Provides crisp, bright images in various lighting conditions.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Steiner-Auto-Focus: Keeps objects in sharp focus from 20m to infinity, eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
- Open-bridge design: Enhances ergonomics and allows for easy one-handed operation.
- Waterproof to 5m: Offers peace of mind in wet conditions.
Cons
- Initial diopter adjustment can be slightly cumbersome.
- Price point may be prohibitive for casual users.
Who Should Buy Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular?
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular is perfect for serious boaters, anglers, and maritime professionals who demand the best in optical performance and durability. They are ideal for anyone who spends significant time on the water. People navigating in challenging conditions will find them invaluable.
Casual boaters or occasional users may find the price difficult to justify. Those primarily using binoculars on land might find other options more suitable.
A must-have accessory is a floating strap to prevent loss overboard. Some users might also consider a high-quality lens cleaning kit.
Conclusion on Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular is a top-tier marine binocular that delivers exceptional performance and rugged durability. The price is justified by its superior optics, robust construction, and innovative features like the open-bridge design and Steiner-Auto-Focus system.
I would highly recommend these binoculars to anyone seeking a reliable and high-performing optic for marine use. If you need dependable binoculars for navigating treacherous seas, spotting distant markers, or enhancing your overall boating experience, the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular will not disappoint. Upgrade your vision and conquer the seas – invest in a pair of Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×50 Binocular today.