Steiner Predator 10×42 vs. the Wild: Did They Live Up to the Hype?
Having spent considerable time in the field with the Steiner Predator 10×42 binoculars, I can assertively share my comprehensive experiences and insights regarding their performance, design, and overall utility for hunting and wildlife observation.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
Upon unboxing the Steiner Predator 10×42 binoculars, I was immediately struck by their robust build and ergonomic design.
The Makrolon® housing, constructed from durable polycarbonate, exudes a sense of ruggedness that promises resilience in demanding outdoor conditions.
The NBR Long-Life rubber armoring provides a secure, non-slip grip, essential for maintaining control during extended use or in wet environments.
Weighing approximately 26.5 ounces and measuring 6.9 x 4.9 x 2.6 inches, these binoculars strike a balance between portability and substantiality, feeling neither too light nor overly cumbersome.
Optical Performance
The true test of any binocular lies in its optical clarity and performance under varying conditions. The Predator 10×42 boasts 10x magnification coupled with 42mm objective lenses, delivering a field of view of 328 feet at 1,000 yards.
This specification is particularly beneficial for scanning large areas, such as open fields or dense forests, allowing for efficient tracking of moving subjects.
One of the standout features is the Color Adjusted Transmission (CAT) coatings. This technology enhances contrast by filtering out specific colors, making game animals more distinguishable against their natural habitats.
In practical terms, while observing deer during early morning hours, I noticed that their coats appeared more pronounced against the foliage, facilitating quicker identification.
The enhanced contrast provided by the CAT coatings is a significant advantage in environments where animals are adept at blending into the background.
The binoculars also excel in low-light conditions. During dusk and dawn—times when wildlife is most active—the Predator 10×42 maintained bright and clear images.
This capability is crucial for hunters and wildlife observers who require optimal visibility during these peak activity periods.
Focusing Mechanism
The Fast-Close-Focus™ system is another noteworthy feature. The central focusing wheel requires minimal rotation to achieve sharp focus from close-up to infinity.
In the field, this translated to rapid adjustments when shifting focus between nearby vegetation and distant wildlife, ensuring that I could quickly and accurately observe subjects at varying distances without fumbling with the focus wheel.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability is a critical factor for outdoor equipment, and the Predator 10×42 does not disappoint. The Makrolon® housing is designed to withstand significant impact, with Steiner claiming it can endure up to 11 Gs of force.
While I did not subject the binoculars to extreme tests, they withstood accidental drops and bumps without any signs of damage.
The NBR Long-Life rubber armoring adds an extra layer of protection, safeguarding the optics from harsh environmental conditions.
Weather resistance is further enhanced by the N2 Injection™ System, which seals dry nitrogen into the optic to prevent fogging.
During a particularly humid morning, I experienced no internal fogging, and the binoculars remained clear and functional.
Also, the binoculars are waterproof, capable of withstanding submersion up to three feet. While I did not intentionally submerge them, they performed flawlessly in heavy rain, providing peace of mind that the optics are protected against moisture intrusion.
Ergonomics and User Comfort
Ergonomically, the Predator 10×42 is thoughtfully designed for extended use.
The textured rubber armoring ensures a secure grip, even when wearing gloves or in wet conditions. The weight distribution feels balanced, reducing fatigue during prolonged observation sessions.
The eyecups are adjustable, accommodating users with or without eyeglasses, and the eye relief is sufficient to provide a full field of view without straining the eyes.
- The higher 10x magnification reveals greater detail at long- distance, making it ideal for hunting open-country and...
- Offers a compact, lightweight design while providing the ruggedness and durability you've come to expect from Steiner
- Predator Diamond Coating added to HD glass generates superior light transmission, high contrast and high-definition...
Accessories and Additional Features
The binoculars come equipped with the ClicLoc® system, allowing for instant attachment and release of the neck strap or harness with the push of a button.
This feature ensures that the binoculars hang straight and are always ready for action. In practice, I found this system to be highly convenient, enabling quick transitions between carrying and viewing positions.
The included neoprene neck strap is comfortable and distributes the weight evenly, further enhancing user comfort during extended use.
Pros:
- Enhanced Contrast: The CAT coatings significantly improve the visibility of game animals against various backgrounds, providing a distinct advantage in the field.
- Robust Construction: The Makrolon® housing and NBR rubber armoring ensure durability, making the binoculars capable of withstanding rough handling and harsh environmental conditions.
- Low-Light Performance: Exceptional clarity during dawn and dusk enhances observation opportunities during peak wildlife activity periods.
- Quick Focus Adjustment: The Fast-Close-Focus™ system allows for rapid and precise focusing, essential for tracking moving subjects.
- Weatherproofing: The N2 Injection™ System and waterproof design ensure reliable performance in various weather conditions, preventing internal fogging and moisture damage.
Cons:
- Weight: At 26.5 ounces, some users may find the binoculars slightly heavy for extended handheld use.
- Eye Relief: While sufficient for most users, individuals who wear eyeglasses may find the eye relief to be on the shorter side, potentially limiting the field of view.
Conclusion
After extensive field testing, I can say that the Steiner Predator 10×42 binoculars are a reliable and high-performing choice for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts.
Their combination of rugged construction, superior optical performance, and user-friendly features make them well-suited for a variety of outdoor applications.
While they are slightly heavier than some competitors, the durability and clarity they offer more than compensate for the additional weight.
Last update on 2025-03-07
