Steiner Navigator 7×50

Specifications:

Objective diameter:  50 mm
Magnification:  7 x
Exit pupil: 7.14 mm
Eye relief (according to spec:): 20.2 mm
Usable eye relief (measured from rim of folded eyecups): 15 mm
IPD (according to spec.): 56-72 mm
IPD (measured): 54 – 74 mm
RFOV(acc. to spec.):  7.3  degrees = 128 m
AFOV (measured, rounded): 50.0 degrees
Minimum focus distance (measured): 6.86 m
Focus type: CF (direction of rotation from close to infinity: > clockwise)
Range of diopter adjustment (acc. to spec.): +/- 5 dpt
Excess travel of focus wheel beyond infinity position (estimate): 4.5 dpt
Prism system:  Porro I
Waterproof: yes
Weight (acc. to spec, without accessories): 1’040 g
Weight (measured, with eyepiece cover and strap): 1’182 g
Made in: Germany (???)

Remarks:

The Navigator is a downgraded version of Steiner’s famous Commander marine binocular (see Commander 7×50, https://binocular.ch/steiner-commander-7×50/). Its image is not as contrasty, bright and brilliant as the Commander’s and has less FOV, but the Navigator costs less than half. When using the Navigator on land, it’s a pity that the individual focusers turn so stiff; of course, for a marine binocular that may not be so relevant because at sea, you almost always observe at infinity. Just don’t believe Steiner when they tell you the focusers are stiff because you never really have to use them after a first setup for your vision, and the rest is then done by autofocus. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO AUTOFOCUS WHATEVER in the Navigator, we have thoroughly inspected it. Take the Navigator for what it is: a decent middle class binocular with individual focus.

See also the Navigator 7×30, https://binocular.ch/steiner-navigator-7×30/

Ratings: