Today, binoculars with integrated rangefinders complete the product range of most well-known optics manufacturers, including Noblex E-Optics. Especially for hunting, these combination devices are very practical. In case of hunting at longer distances, it is much better to measure the distance to the observed piece in seconds with the push of a button, than to estimate it more or less successfully. After we have already introduced the Noblex NF 10x42 R advanced to you on all4hunters.com, we have now put it to the test in the field. Here are our impressions from hunting practice.
Noblex NF 10x42 R advanced: features and scope of delivery
In terms of concept and equipment, the rangefinder developed in Germany does not look much different from other modern roof binoculars. Only the two push buttons on the front indicate the additional function of the laser rangefinder and angle measurement. The eyecups can be unscrewed for eyeglass wearers and adjusted to the diopters. In addition to the completely unscrewed position, there is also a detent point for a center position to adjust the field of view individually in the best possible way, even when wearing glasses. All functions of the laser rangefinder can be controlled through the two buttons. These would be, for example, the brightness of the red OLED display or the various usage modes. These differ depending on the area of use, distance or weather conditions, such as for hunting, close range or in rainy weather. When it comes to accessories, Noblex has considered all the essentials that go into protecting a high-quality optic: these include an adjustable, comfortable carrying strap with neoprene padding, plus the plastic protective caps for objectives and eyepieces. In addition, the entire optics are packed shockproof in a zippered hard case made of Cordura.
Practical test: with the Noblex NF 10x42 R advanced in the field
For the practical test, we took the binoculars out into the field, both in sunlight and in hazy weather and twilight. The optic weighs 36.6 oz/1,040 grams with batteries, but without strap – so it is not a lightweight, but it is easy to handle in hunting practice. Unlike the pre-series model, the image on our test model for all4hunters.com was absolutely color-neutral.
There was also nothing to complain about in terms of image sharpness. Details could be recognized without any problems even at a distance and the image remained sharp up to the edges. According to the manufacturer, the laser rangefinder measures distances of up to 2,300 meters within 0.3 seconds and with an accuracy of one meter, depending on how strongly the targeted object reflects the laser. According to Noblex, this works on game at distances of up to 1,200 meters. In our own test, measurements up to around 850 meters were possible without any problems, and we can imagine that longer distances (as stated by Noblex) are also possible. We did not try it out in our area.
Noblex NF 10x42 R advanced technical specifications and price
Model: | Noblex NF 10 x 42 R |
Price: | 1,299 euro (MSRP) - price may vary in your country |
Lens Diameter: | 42 mm |
Dimensions (L x W): | 190 x 140 mm |
Field of View (at 1,000 m): | 105 m |
Exit Pupil: | 4.2 mm |
Diopter Compensation: | +/- 5 dpt |
Batteries: | 2 CR2 - 3V |
Measuring Range: | 5 to 2,300 m max, game up to 1,200 m |
Angle Measurement: | +/- 90 degrees |
Waterproof: | IPX-8 |
Weight: | 36.6 oz/1,040 g |
Noblex NF 10x42R advanced: for whom is it worth buying?
In view of the reasonable price, the rangefinder binoculars NF 10x42 R advanced from Noblex is a good offer for all hunters, looking for an affordable product in this particular field. Most models of the competitors do not even have a rangefinder at this price level. In addition to the good price/performance ratio, we really appreciated the image sharpness, the representation of details at long distances was very good and also the laser rangefinder works quickly and reliably. Controls sit where they belong, they work flawlessly and sufficiently smoothly. The displayed distance of the rangefinder was also always easy to read. What more could you want? Therefore, from us a purchase tip for all those who thought binoculars with rangefinder were simply too expensive.
What we liked: | What we liked less: |
Very good price/performance ratio | Somewhat high weight (just over 1 kg) |
High sharpness, up to the edge area | |
Full accessories package included |
Further information about the NF 10x42 R may be found on the Noblex E-Optics website.