Home > Consumer Reviews > Nikon ProStaff ATB 9x25 Waterproof Binocular

I chose these because of the specs and my general trust of Nikon products. For me, 10x is the best magnification. Not too shaky at all and more fun than the usual 8x.

The ProStaffs are very well made with smooth and solid mechanical action. They are very comfortable for eyeglass wearers, although I still prefer to take mine off.

The 10Xs are very sharp and focus pretty closely. Looking at objects that are only a few feet away is interesting. Bear in mind, though, that they are no substitute for a giant tv as I have tried that. I also like the very contrasty 3-D look where objects at different distances really stand out from each other.

The following is hard to describe: Some scenes, especially waves and other watery features, look better through the ProStaffs than when viewed by eye alone. My wife aptly describes this as "better than real life".

This effect is seen in the rendition of colors and pleasant sort of a smooth and contrasty sharpness. Perhaps the various types of lenses and coatings employed may impart some polarization effect and also filter out the evil rays that detract from our normal viewing pleasure. The effect is not cartoonish or unnatural at all, just very nice.

This review may read like that of a young and overly imaginative ad executive, but let me assure you that I am not young and some of my other reviews are pretty harsh.

It would be fun to compare these long term with a pair of really expensive binoculars to see if my observations might apply to most modern designs. So, if somebody will send me a pair of, oh, Leicas, I promise a comparison review.

Finally, I spent a little time trying to find out what "eco-lenses" really are, but it is evidently a secret. Same goes for "ProStaff". Either a professional stick or excellent employees. Or something else not appropriate here.

This is my first (disregarding childhood cheapo ones) binoc and I am impressed with it. I am not a pro and wanted a good quality binocs for casual family outings. I did a lot of research before deciding on this. Optical quality, weather proof construction, light weight and the price out-weigh the low light advantage that other bigger/heavier models offer, especially if you are looking for a casual family use.
Optical quality is very good and I definitely recommend this binocular.
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I love these (light, bright, clear, great quality, reasonable price), but would get 8 x 25's if purchasing again, because the 9 power makes them a little jittery, especially when used from a kayak. You'll love 'em!

Excellent optics. Compact, rugged design. Easy to adjust and focus except that diopter is a little difficult to adjust.

These binoculars are not the best in comparison to others that are more expensive. However, for the size, weight, waterproof, fogproof and function I recommend the Prostaff ATB ! I enjoy hiking in almost all weather conditions and that means that I must bring water and proper layer clothing in my small pack. I have enough weight to worry about and having heavy binoculars was not for me. I didn't want to sacrifice reliability just to have less weight, because I needed a waterproof binocular that wouldn't fill up with water during rain or snow. I love these binoculars- they are perfect for me and I don't feel their weight when I bring them; it fits in my cargo pant pockets!

When I traveled into other states, I brought them with me along with my camera. I attached the case to the camera bag and walked all over the city and parks without them getting in the way. Over one year later, so far I've not had a problem with the binocular itself except witht the lens cap. The lens cap is cheap, but that is all- the binoculars themselves are of good quality. I strongly recommend this paticular brand or model, if you're looking for something that is reliable and not highly expensive. For the price and function they work more than just fine, just take care of them.