Nikon Mountaineer II (8X25) Binocular

Pros: Excellent optics, rugged construction, compact dimensions

Cons: Somewhat heavy for their size

The Bottom Line: These binos are excellent for any use besides astronomy or other night-time applications.

Review: The Nikon Mountaineer 8x25 is a waterproof, fogproof compact binocular with a fixed 8x magnification. It has 25mm objective lenses and utilizes a porro prism design with center focusing knob. The prisms are BAK-4 and all lens surfaces are multicoated. ...

Pros: Most rugged compacts ever made by Nikon. Amazing price.

Cons: No front protecting caps. A cheap flexible plastic case is the only protection.

The Bottom Line: Best binoculars for mountain climbing and walking for a reasonable price. Only close competitors are the military Pioneer M24 Apache and to a lesser extent the Fujinon Air Drop

Review: Pity that Nikon discontinued these faboulous binoculars. These were the most rugged COMPACT binoculars ever made by Nikon. They had a short live though. They have been the only compact All Terrain Binos (ATB) with fully metall chasis made by Nikon. ...