Home > Consumer Reviews > Steiner Commander III 7X50 Binoculars (Blue)

I've had a pair of these for about two years now; they have given outstanding performance on and off the water. The light-gathering ability at night is almost unreal - almost like a night-vision scope. Clarity of vision in all lighting conditions is superb. Collimation is excellent. Optical quality is typical Steiner - none better. Compass is extremely accurate. When they get crusted with salt, a light spray-off with fresh water cleans them up nicely. One complaint: the little batteries which run the night illumination on the compass are quite difficult to remove and replace. 2 caveats if you buy these binos: definitely get a flotation strap, in case some dolt drops them overboard; don't loan them out, as it will be damn tough to get them back.

I too bought these for boating, and find the image stabalized compass really helpful. Without the stabilization, the compass would swing around 15 degrees either side, with it, maybe 1-3 degrees. I expecially enjoy the fact that I can adjust for my vision once, and not touch the focus -- ever... I can also read the compass with my glasses on -- and that is unusual for some units I tried.

Yes, get the flotation strap.. Dolts will drop them...

I bought the binoculars 4 years ago and used them mainly for boating.I only can reconfirm the previous review. The optics are superb, giving a good view in low light conditions and even at night. I had no need to change the battery for the compass light in these four years, but used the compass illumination may be no more than 20 times. Buying these binoculars seems expensiv, but it is like aquiring a jewel. With a little of care you will not need to buy other binoculars for the rest of your live.