16 replies to this topic

[pugliano]

I have the Nikon M7 8x30, which are light and sharp, but as I'm getting older I'm finding the 8x to be a bit more difficult to hold steady. I use them primarily for bird watching, but also for astronomy.

 

Would there be any advantage for me to get the Nikon AE 7x35 porros? I'm thinking they might be easier to hold steady since they weigh more and have slightly less magnification. They also have a slightly wider FOV, and better eye relief, and a larger exit pupil. The Monarch has a closer focusing distance though.

 

Would I regret switching to the AEs? How do they compare to the Monarch M7 in terms of sharpness and contrast?

 

Is there a better pair of 7x35 porros for someone with a limited budget?

Edited by pugliano, 24 May 2025 - 08:53 AM.

[tmichaelbanks]

There is a used Nikon AE 7x35 for $88 available for purchase on adorama.com. They are a very reputable company with a 30-day return policy. Why not try them out and answer your questions?

I have tried the 7x35 and it is quite impressive for the price. It's larger size and heavier weight make holding it easier, wrapping your hands around the prism housings. But optically it is a very different beast than the M7 8x30. The TFOV is wider but the edges are fuzzier, the focuser a little stiffer. Only you can decide if its characteristics suit you.

[Mike W]

Search for a pair of Nikon 7X35 "E".

 

https://www.ebay.com...:Bk9SR_jcw7rgZQ

Edited by Mike W, 24 May 2025 - 01:58 PM.

[sevenofnine]

I think it's worth a try. If you buy them from Amazon, their return policy is very easy. I have the Nikon AE 10x50 and 7x50 (which now has a new home). Both are very good binoculars but not in the same class as my 8x42 Monarch M5's. The AE's are less sharp at the edge which doesn't bother me much in a hand held bino but that's a personal matter. The ED glass in the M5's gives slightly more color saturation too. The Monarch's are in the Better class of binos IMO and the AE's are just very good. Hope that helps with your decision. Good luck! 

 

https://www.amazon.c...,aps,406&sr=8-3.

[sevenofnine]

Mike is right about the Nikon 7x35 Series E bino but even used it will be more expensive. Optically better but you lose the rugged waterproof construction. Also, no warranty but you will likely never need it 

 

https://www.ebay.com...:Bk9SR_KIs7rgZQ.

Edited by sevenofnine, 24 May 2025 - 02:02 PM.

[pugliano]

Thanks. Guess I need to decide whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages (sharpness/contrast). I don't have a problem with less sharpness at the edges, as long as the central portion is still very good.

[Mark9473]

I wouldn't make that switch if you use them for astronomy. Going from 8x to 7x is a noticeable step back on resolving detail on the Moon or in open clusters.

[pat in los angeles basin]

pugliano; Could you give an upper limit on what you are willing to spend as there are several budget 6.5 and 7x porros out there that might fit the ball

 A opticron adventurer 6.5x32

https://www.bhphotov...t_wp.html/specs

 

Apm telescope sells another 6.5x32 that highly regarded for 220 ish dollars

Kowa still makes a nice 6x porro

[pat in los angeles basin]

I agree with Mark that at least for me- in the bright metro sky, a 7 x doesn't cut it, 8x barely does it and a 10x is preferred but that's on a tripod for me or a ZG chair recliner.  Pat (74 yo)

Edited by pat in los angeles basin, 24 May 2025 - 07:36 PM.

[hallelujah]

I agree with pat, more magnification is better for metro skies.

But you will need a good recliner to relax in.

More shake of course.

 

Stan

[pugliano]

pugliano; Could you give an upper limit on what you are willing to spend as there are several budget 6.5 and 7x porros out there that might fit the ball

 A opticron adventurer 6.5x32

https://www.bhphotov...t_wp.html/specs

 

Apm telescope sells another 6.5x32 that highly regarded for 220 ish dollars

Kowa still makes a nice 6x porro

Under $200. I never considered the 6 x30 or 6.5x32, but looking at them, some of them have a really wide FOV, which I like. Just not sure if I want to go below 7x for birding.

[hallelujah]

Just not sure if I want to go below 7x for birding.

For birding I like higher magnifications, especially at a  d i s t a n c e.

 

Stan
 

[pat in los angeles basin]

Ok, at this point with a $200 limiit, you might use that as a down payment on a 10x IS bino  Good luck in the hunt! Pat

[CQDDEMGY]

The Nikon AE 7x35 is a solid binocular and is on sale.  I would buy new, Nikon does not stand behind their refurbished binoculars.

 

Stay away from ebay vintage glass unless you have budgeted a few hundred to send them out for repair.

[pat in los angeles basin]

 I'll stay on the Nikon action topic  to offer an alternative. I will say that I'm a sucker for the first generation Nikon action 7x35 (even with the fast focus that I don't care for), as even well used, they are the cat's pajamas when it comes to performance providing you don't wear glasses. For me they don't quite have the  eye relief for glasses and a full FOV with the cups folded down. They usually sell for about $100 dollars used- keep an eye out for a decent looking one and be happy!   Pat

[Mike W]

I have bought three pairs of Nikon "E" off E-bay without a problem. For the $ you can't get a better small porro. The quality and views are outstanding only beat by my $900.00 Nikon MHG. Also three years ago I bought an 8X40 and an 10X40 Nikon refurb. for my daughter and her fiancee and they are still going strong. 

Edited by Mike W, 25 May 2025 - 08:46 PM.

[PanamaRic]

As you age, getting a IS binocular is a good idea. Yes they are expensive, but at a older age they might worth the price.