Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor Review

My first impression of Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor

For over a decade, I’ve sifted through countless pieces of outdoor and tactical gear, but few things pique my interest like a well-crafted binocular. The Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars promise to deliver exceptional clarity and performance in the field, and I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype. Steiner is a name synonymous with ruggedness and optical excellence, and their Predator series is specifically designed for hunters seeking an edge in low-light conditions.

I was looking for a set of binoculars that could cut through the haze of dawn and dusk, offering bright, clear images for spotting game in dense terrain. Many cheaper binoculars fail in these critical moments, leaving you guessing while that trophy buck disappears into the brush. The promise of Steiner’s Diamond Coating and Fast-Close-Focus system sealed the deal.

Unboxing the Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and comfortable ergonomics. The black rubber armor provides a secure grip, even with gloved hands, and the weight feels balanced without being overly heavy. The build quality exudes confidence.

Compared to my older Bushnell Legend binoculars and a friend’s Vortex Diamondback HD, the Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars seemed to offer a noticeable step up in clarity and brightness, especially in simulated low-light conditions in my office. I chose the Steiner based on its reputation for low-light performance and the promise of a wider field of view, crucial for scanning large areas quickly. I was excited, but cautiously optimistic, as I’ve been burned by marketing hype before.

Real-World Testing: Putting Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars on a week-long elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies. The terrain was a mix of dense timber and open meadows, perfect for testing their capabilities. I encountered everything from bright sunshine to drizzling rain and even a brief snow flurry.

The binoculars performed admirably in all conditions. The Diamond Coating optics provided excellent clarity and brightness, even in low light, allowing me to pick out details in the shadows that would have been missed with lesser optics. The Fast-Close-Focus wheel proved to be a game-changer, allowing me to quickly adjust focus on objects at varying distances with minimal effort. It took a few minutes to get used to the Fast-Close-Focus, but once dialed in, it became intuitive. My initial concern was whether the focus would slip, which it did not in my testing.

I did notice that the eye cups, while comfortable, could be a bit fiddly to adjust with thick gloves on, but this was a minor inconvenience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars have held up exceptionally well. I’ve used them on multiple hunting trips, hiking excursions, and even for some birdwatching in my backyard. The rubber armor shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to rough handling and exposure to the elements.

Cleaning the lenses is straightforward, and the waterproof/fogproof design gives me peace of mind in inclement weather. I simply wipe them down with a lens cloth after each use.

Compared to my previous binoculars, the Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars offer a significant improvement in image quality, especially in low light. Their durability and ease of use have also exceeded my expectations. I find myself reaching for them every time I head outdoors.

Breaking Down the Features of Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor

Specifications

• Magnification: 8x – Provides a balance between a wide field of view and sufficient magnification for identifying distant objects.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm – Allows for ample light gathering, resulting in brighter images, especially in low-light conditions.
• Field of View: 375 ft @ 1000 yds – Offers a wide viewing area, making it easier to locate and track moving objects.
• Exit Pupil: 5.25mm – A larger exit pupil is more forgiving with eye placement and provides a brighter image, especially useful in low light.
• Short Focus: 6.60 ft – Allows for close-up viewing of nearby objects.
• Weight: 26.60 oz – Relatively lightweight for comfortable extended use.
• Finish: Black Rubber Armor – Provides a durable, non-slip grip and protects the binoculars from damage.
• Case: Yes (Includes Neck Strap / Carry Case) – Offers convenient storage and transport.
• Optic Coating: Diamond Coat – Optimizes light transmission for enhanced clarity and brightness.
• Proofs: Fog / Waterproof – Ensures reliable performance in all weather conditions.
• Focus Type: Fast-Close – Allows for quick and precise focusing.
• Height: 6.90″ – Compact and easy to handle.
• Width: 4.73″ – Comfortable grip.

These specifications combine to create a high-performing binocular optimized for hunting and other outdoor activities, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The objective lens diameter and optical coatings are crucial for maximizing brightness, while the magnification and field of view balance detail and situational awareness.

Performance & Functionality

The Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars excel at their primary job: providing clear, bright, and detailed images for observation. The image resolution is impressive, allowing me to easily identify game at long distances.

The Fast-Close-Focus system is a standout feature, enabling quick and accurate focusing, even with gloves on. The wide field of view is invaluable for scanning large areas and tracking moving animals. The low-light performance is genuinely impressive, making them ideal for dawn and dusk hunting. One weakness might be extreme long range viewing where a higher power may be desired by some, but the trade off with field of view is often worth the 8x power.

The binoculars met and, in many cases, exceeded my expectations. I found them to be a significant upgrade over my previous optics.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The rubber armor provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The binoculars feel solid and well-balanced in hand.

The ergonomics are well thought out. The eyecups are comfortable and adjustable, and the Fast-Close-Focus wheel is easy to reach and operate. There’s a slight learning curve with the Fast-Close-Focus system, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars are built to last. The rubber armor provides excellent protection against impacts and abrasions.

Maintenance is simple. The waterproof/fogproof design makes them easy to clean and maintain, even after exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars come with a neck strap and a carry case. The strap is comfortable and adjustable, and the case provides good protection during storage and transport.

While there are limited customization options for the binoculars themselves, they are compatible with standard tripod adapters, allowing them to be mounted for more stable viewing. One could also consider after market neck straps if desired, but the included one is of high quality.

Pros and Cons of Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor

Who Should Buy Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor?

The Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars are perfect for hunters who need reliable, high-performance optics in challenging lighting conditions and varied terrain. They’re also an excellent choice for birdwatchers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates a bright, clear image and durable construction.

Those who need extreme long-range viewing capabilities or are on a very tight budget might consider other options.

A tripod adapter might be a worthwhile accessory for those who plan to use the binoculars for extended periods.

Conclusion on Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor

The Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars are a top-tier optical instrument that delivers exceptional performance in the field. Their impressive low-light capabilities, Fast-Close-Focus system, and durable construction make them a worthwhile investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

At $549.99, the price is justified by the quality of the optics, the robust construction, and the overall performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing pair of optics for their outdoor adventures. Don’t settle for less; equip yourself with the Steiner Predator 8x42mm Black Rubber Armor binoculars and experience the difference. You won’t regret it.