There’s so much to like in regards to the Nikon Prostaff P3 binoculars. Right here, we have reviewed the 8×42 fashions as they provide 8x magnification with bigger 42mm goal lenses which can be greatest suited to stargazing however three different fashions exist within the line-up: 8×30; 10×30 and 10×42 variations. Every barely dearer as you go up in magnification and goal lens dimension however they’re incremental variations.
Specs
Design: Roof prism
Exit pupil: 3mm
Eye reduction: 15.4mm
Weight: 465g
Dimensions: 125 x 130 x 52mm
Magnification: 10x and 8x
Goal lenses: 42mm and 30mm
Sturdiness: Fog-proof and waterproof
The Prostaff P3s are a roof prism design binocular and because of this, are slim in form. They’re additionally mild at simply over 1 lb (465g) and might simply match beneath a zipped-up overcoat ought to the rain begin to fall. They really feel fairly sturdy within the hand as effectively, a stiff hinge prevents them from slipping aside when climbing and a easy focus wheel is easy to function even with thick gloves on. The resin chassis is enveloped in a rubberized armor to stop harm from knocks and scrapes.
The optics within the Prostaff P3 8×42’s are improbable, particularly contemplating how they’re priced. That is why we characteristic them in our Best binoculars 2023 information. They take plenty of cues from the Nikon Monarch HG 10×42 which we reviewed and have some premium-feeling features however there are some compromises and concerns to make if high-quality is your proviso. Sitting beneath the P7 binocular line, Nikon have positioned the P3 line immediately in step with beginner-level observing, so with that in thoughts let’s check out how they carry out.
Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42: Design
- Waterproof down to at least one meter
- Fogproof due to Nitrogen-purging
- Adjustable eyecups really feel premium
After we use a pair of binoculars we all the time hope for one factor on the very least: good optical readability. The important thing to a binocular is to offer sharp, clear views of topics and fortunately for us, Nikon has determined that placing all that expertise, experience and expertise (and cash) into the optics was a great name for the Prostaff P3 binoculars.
After all, we’re reviewing the 8×42 variations however the development and end is basically an identical for all 4 variations within the P3 collection. A multilayer coating dons the lenses to scale back flare and ghosting and contained in the binoculars, the prism is coated with a silver-alloy preserving views shiny — nice for low mild commentary.
The premium really feel extends to the adjustable, twist-up eyecups which give a satisfying click on as they’re turned and have a beneficiant most eye reduction of 15.4mm appropriate for many eyeglasses wearers. We have been impressed with the eyepieces as they felt harking back to the rather more costly Nikon Monarch HG binoculars.
Although in fact, there are some issues that set these binoculars other than the dearer fashions. Specifically, the target lens caps which have a free match and infrequently drop off. We might have favored to see them maintain slightly extra tightly onto the top of the binos. However once more, the place it counts the binoculars carry out. They’re waterproof down to at least one meter and might be held there for as much as ten minutes (preferrred for fishing out a stream if dropped). Because of their Nitrogen-purging they’re additionally fogproof, so shifting between chilly and heat temperatures will not trigger fogging on the lenses.
Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42: Efficiency
- Sharp and shiny views
- Able to go after a fast preliminary setup
- Disappointing eyepiece lens caps
We could not ask for rather more from a pair of entry-level binoculars from Nikon. Wonderful high quality within the optics is what we would hope for. The binoculars use the superior BAK-4 glass however they’re additionally reported by Nikon to be ‘higher for the setting’ as a result of they’re constituted of lead and arsenic-free glass.
Having dialled within the focusing and corrected the diopter ring, we have been all set. Out and in of the bag, in inclement climate or throughout dry spells the Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42 binoculars saved up with us wherever we went. Shiny, crisp views have been welcomed and regardless of some minor softening across the fringe of the picture circle it was onerous to fault the views. There was slightly colour fringing round excessive distinction edges (like darkish timber set in opposition to a shiny sky) however this wasn’t noticeable at night time viewing the celebrities and so they truly characteristic the bottom chromatic aberration of any similarly-priced binoculars we have examined.
The binoculars carried out effectively beneath all circumstances and there was just one space the place the low worth was noticeable: the eyepiece caps. They really feel as if they’re manufactured from a inflexible, much less versatile plastic and so fell off a number of instances throughout use. A bit of adjustment to their dimension and we doubt we would have encountered an issue. Nonetheless, it is value mentioning as a result of we ended up taking them off and leaving them within the automobile whereas we went climbing to keep away from dropping them.
Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42: Performance
- Strong polycarbonate fiberglass-reinforced physique
- Rubber armoring is mushy to the touch
- Waterproofness makes them preferrred to make use of in pouring rain
The Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42 binoculars operate effectively within the discipline, preferrred for climbing, birding, sports activities and occasions viewing in addition to star gazing. They’re constructed of a powerful polycarbonate resin plastic which by itself is powerful however has been strengthened by fiberglass for extra robustness. By way of the textured rubber coating they really feel as if constituted of a strong metallic beneath so customers will discover them comfy to hold.
For those who like slightly give to their binocular covers the Prostaff P3 truly has a softening across the grip factors the place we will truly really feel the armoring give approach beneath thumb and finger. This makes them very comfy to make use of however we hope that over extended use (months and years) this does not get any softer as a result of it might detract from the hand really feel.
The P3 binoculars are sealed entrance to again and so immersing them in water as much as a meter (3.3ft) deep gives you no issues for as much as ten minutes. Observing with them in torrential rain storms then, is like water off a duck’s again for these binos.
One factor that will enhance their performance is to introduce the identical locking diopter mechanism as seen within the higher-up P7 and Monarch HG strains. It is an exquisite contact that retains the diopter from being knocked when transported, however for the value it is easy sufficient simply to readjust the diopter ring and save the cash.
Do you have to purchase the Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42 binoculars?
Nikon has produced a really succesful binocular and have clearly spent a lot of their time and a focus (and price range) on mastering the optics on this entry-level pair. They’re comfy to make use of and durable besides. For the value, they’re preferrred as a pair for hikers, birders, skywatchers or anybody that desires a good pair of roof prism binoculars to take with them wherever they go. We might advocate them to anybody on the lookout for a great pair, however bear in mind that with that barely lower cost comes some minor shortcomings like free lens caps and a slightly skinny neckstrap.
If the Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42 binoculars aren’t for you
Take a step up from the Prostaff P3s and decide as an alternative for the Nikon Prostaff P7 (opens in new tab) line of binoculars if a barely extra premium contact is your factor. Improved construct and dealing with are paired with a locked diopter ring for strong viewing.
Nonetheless, if you wish to get extraordinarily regular views we would advocate the Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars which we reviewed due to their picture stabilization. Steadying the view and offering wonderful optical readability on the similar time, they’re our favorites in our round-up of the best binoculars.
