Binoculars are an essential tool in wildlife photography, both during the research phase of a photo project, and while out in the field shooting. They help me spot wildlife, observe animal behavior, and, of course, pass the time while I wait for my main subject to appear by watching the other animals around me. For the past 15 years, I’ve used a pair of vintage Canon 7×35 binoculars, which I absolutely love. These classic porro prism binoculars are very comfortable to hold, and deliver a sharp, bright image with nice colors and minimal chromatic aberration. However, with all the gear I carry into the field, I’ve decided to replace them with something more compact without compromising on quality.
When searching for a new pair of binoculars, I had a few key requirements. First, I didn’t want anything larger or heavier than my Canon binoculars, which weigh around 25 oz (700 gr). Fortunately, most modern binoculars are roof prism models, which tend to be more compact than their porro counterparts. I also wanted a bit more magnification—an 8x model seemed perfect. Since I often shoot in low light, particularly at dawn, dusk, and in dark forests, I need binoculars with good brightness. That meant an exit pupil of at least 5mm, so I focused on 8×40 and 8×42 models. A wide field of view is also crucial, as I need to quickly spot and follow moving wildlife. Viewing comfort and decent eye relief were important too. After extensive research, I realized that building compact binoculars with all these features is optically very challenging. Most so-called “alpha” binos are therefore very bulky in the 8×42 configuration, not to mention they cost more than my first car. So, I continued looking, and eventually I discovered a pair of Nikon binoculars that checked all the boxes. They’re still not cheap, but they cost a fraction of the high-end Euro models.
The Nikon Monarch HG (High Grade) series is currently Nikon’s flagship line of binoculars. These Japanese-made binoculars are built to last—they’re waterproof, fogproof, and have a magnesium alloy chassis that balances strength with light weight. I have to say, they’re also some of the best-looking binoculars I’ve ever seen. Their modern-retro design, with a partial leatherette-style covering, gives them an old-school feel, yet they clearly represent a 21st-century fashion. I briefly considered the Leica Trinovid 8×40 Classic, nicknamed “Retrovid” binoculars (another beautiful pair), but they cost significantly more than the Nikon, have a narrower field of view, and aren’t fully waterproof. The Monarch HG, by comparison, is designed to handle the demands of serious outdoor activities in any weather.
The Nikon Monarch HG 8×42 is a pleasure to handle. Its small single-hinge bridge design allows for a secure grip with plenty of barrel space for your fingers. The focuser is smooth and precise—one of the best I’ve ever used. The close-focus distance is excellent, making it ideal for observing smaller animals like butterflies or dragonflies. The diopter adjustment is located on the right eyepiece and can be locked, which is a nice touch. In terms of optics, the Monarch HG uses high-quality glasses, including extra-low dispersion (ED) elements to minimize chromatic aberration. The lens coatings are top-notch, ensuring vibrant and clear view. The eyepieces are large, and the eye relief is enough to see all of the field even with eyeglasses on. The high-quality rubberized metal eyecups have four adjustable positions and are very comfortable. I haven’t experienced any blackouts with these binoculars.
The view through the Monarch HG is truly exceptional. The image is sharp, bright, and wide, with minimal chromatic aberration. This is incredibly important to me. CA is one thing that I simply can’t tolerate, weather in my photos or through my binoculars. The Monarch HG also incorporates Field Flattener technology, which keeps the image crisp and distortion-free, even close to the edges. Overall, the optical quality is outstanding. Considering the build quality, optical performance, size, weight, and the sub-$1000 price tag (in early 2025), the Nikon Monarch HG binoculars stand out as one of the best options available for wildlife photographers. They offer excellent value for money, with features that make them perfect for both serious photographers and passionate nature enthusiasts alike.
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binoculars,gear,nature photography
