There’s quite a bit 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 are finest 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 measurement however they’re incremental variations.
Specs
Design: Roof prism
Exit pupil: 3mm
Eye aid: 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 consequently, are slim in form. They’re additionally gentle 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 properly, 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 injury 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 a variety of cues from the Nikon Monarch HG 10×42 which we reviewed and have some premium-feeling elements 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 instantly consistent 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 because of Nitrogen-purging
- Adjustable eyecups really feel premium
Once 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 provide sharp, clear views of topics and fortunately for us, Nikon has determined that placing all that know-how, experience and expertise (and cash) into the optics was an excellent name for the Prostaff P3 binoculars.
After all, we’re reviewing the 8×42 variations however the building and end is basically similar 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 vibrant — nice for low gentle statement.
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 aid of 15.4mm appropriate for many eyeglasses wearers. We have been impressed with the eyepieces as they felt harking back to the far more costly Nikon Monarch HG binoculars.
Although after all, there are some issues that set these binoculars aside from the dearer fashions. Specifically, the target lens caps which have a unfastened match and infrequently drop off. We would have favored to see them maintain a little bit 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 (perfect for fishing out a stream if dropped). Because of their Nitrogen-purging they’re additionally fogproof, so transferring between chilly and heat temperatures will not trigger fogging on the lenses.
Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42: Efficiency
- Sharp and vibrant views
- Able to go after a fast preliminary setup
- Disappointing eyepiece lens caps
We could not ask for far 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 atmosphere’ as a result of they’re constructed from 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 stored up with us wherever we went. Brilliant, 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 a little bit shade fringing round excessive distinction edges (like darkish timber set towards a vibrant sky) however this wasn’t noticeable at night time viewing the celebs they usually really characteristic the bottom chromatic aberration of any similarly-priced binoculars we have examined.
The binoculars carried out properly beneath all situations and there was just one space the place the low value was noticeable: the eyepiece caps. They really feel as if they’re made from a inflexible, much less versatile plastic and so fell off a couple of occasions throughout use. A bit adjustment to their measurement 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 shedding them.
Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42: Performance
- Strong polycarbonate fiberglass-reinforced physique
- Rubber armoring is delicate to the touch
- Waterproofness makes them perfect to make use of in pouring rain
The Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42 binoculars operate properly within the area, perfect 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 robust however has been bolstered by fiberglass for added robustness. By way of the textured rubber coating they really feel as if constructed from a strong metallic beneath so customers will discover them snug to hold.
For people who like a little bit give to their binocular covers the Prostaff P3 really has a softening across the grip factors the place we will really really feel the armoring give approach beneath thumb and finger. This makes them very snug 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 will provide you with 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 may enhance their performance is to introduce the identical locking diopter mechanism as seen within the higher-up P7 and Monarch HG strains. It is a phenomenal contact that retains the diopter from being knocked when transported, however for the worth it is simple sufficient simply to readjust the diopter ring and save the cash.
Must you 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 funds) on mastering the optics on this entry-level pair. They’re snug to make use of and durable besides. For the worth, they’re perfect as a pair for hikers, birders, skywatchers or anybody that desires an honest pair of roof prism binoculars to take with them wherever they go. We would advocate them to anybody searching for an excellent pair, however remember that with that barely cheaper price comes some minor shortcomings like unfastened lens caps and a moderately 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 sturdy 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 glorious optical readability on the similar time, they’re our favorites in our round-up of the best binoculars.
