Standard Issue 10x25 Waterproof Binoculars vs Nikon Monarch M7 10x42

Buy the Nikon Monarch M7 10x42 if you want one binocular for serious birding, hunting or low-light use. Its 42 mm lenses, ED glass and 16.5 mm eye relief give a brighter, more comfortable view than the Standard Issue can. Buy the Standard Issue 10x25 if you want a pocketable, fully waterproof pair for hiking and travel. It weighs 336 g against 680 g and survives a dunking, but its 2.5 mm exit pupil and 10 mm eye relief make it dim at dusk and awkward with glasses. Owners rate the Standard Issue very highly for its size; the Monarch M7 is the better optical instrument and the heavier one to carry.

• Choose the Standard Issue 10x25 if you want a light, waterproof binocular that fits a jacket pocket and goes everywhere with you.
• Choose the Nikon Monarch M7 10x42 if brightness, sharpness and long-eye-relief comfort matter more than saving weight.