Author Topic: Binoculars: Bushnell Legends VS Nikon Monarch (Read 2025 times)

Bucky · « **on:** July 19, 2003, 06:53:59 AM »

Has anyone compared these two binocular series? I used to have a Nikon Monarch ATB pre phase coated (8 X 40), and it was fairly decent (nice and light too). The new Nikon Monarchs have twist out eye cups, are 42 mm, and are phase coated. The Bushnell Legends (I have a 8 X 42) are heavier, but are brighter and clearer than the old Nikon Monarch ATB's. The Legends only minor fault. is that they fuzz out at the edges (no big deal!, I only look through the center anyway).

Does anyone know how the new Nikon Monarch binocular quality is/compares to the Legends? These two binoculars seem to give a lot of quality for the money (< $300). :coffee:

chk · « **Reply #1 on:** July 19, 2003, 01:07:43 PM »

I can't say I've compared these two models but I do have B&L Discoverer 7x42 binoculars and love them. The Rain Guard really works. The Optic Zone has the Bushnell Ledgend 8x42 binos for $249. The 7x42 biinos I bought are very bright and clear. Nikon optics are great but the Rain Guard feature is a god send if you hunt in bad weather. Dave

TheOpticZone · « **Reply #2 on:** July 20, 2003, 02:01:45 PM »

Both the Bushnell Legend and Nikon Monarch ATB are great Binoculars, but I think that I like the Monarchs better, due to the phase-coating and I think they are clearer than the Legends. Yes the rainguard is a plus! The Nikons offer outstanding clarity and brightness in their optics, including their Monarch series binoculars. Like I said, I like the phase-coated lenses, which adds in better color transmission. I personally would go with the Nikons.

Dave in WV · « **Reply #3 on:** July 20, 2003, 03:02:53 PM »

Jon, how do the B&L Discoverer series binos compare to Nikons? I'm very pleased with my 7x42 Discoverer binos. BTW, how did you like the Rifleman artical on exit pupil I mailed? I thought it was great info. Not what I expected. Dave

TheOpticZone · « **Reply #4 on:** July 21, 2003, 03:02:56 AM »

Dave,

The Discoverer's are a different story. I would put them well above the Nikon's. They are very clear and have the added bonus of the rainguard feature. The funny thing is that people just look at the Elite's or the Legend's and don't even consider the Discoverer's. But when you look at them compared to the Elite's, they are a 1/3 the price, but you can not tell much difference in quality. Great Binoculars...... Thank you for the article, it is great reference material.

Dave in WV · « **Reply #5 on:** July 21, 2003, 04:00:16 AM »

Thanks Jon. I couldn't compare the binos before I bought them and went by a recommendation. I'm glad I did. :grin: The next time I buy optics I'll give you a call. Dave

Rusty · « **Reply #6 on:** July 21, 2003, 09:06:27 AM »

Just a clarification: both the Bushnell Legend & MNikon Monarch are phase coated.

Rusty · « **Reply #7 on:** July 21, 2003, 09:17:02 AM »

From what I have read, these aren't all that great. One of my optics information webpages is: betterviewdesired.com. It is put out by a birder. However, they do lots of side by side tests, and the B & L Discoverer wasn't rated that well.

TheOpticZone · « **Reply #8 on:** July 21, 2003, 09:23:35 AM »

Rusty,

You are correct about the Legends being Phase coated. I guess I learn something new everyday! :wink: