Marine Electronics Reviews
Nikon Stabileyes 14x40 Binocular

We found the layout and construction of the Nikon StabilEyes 14x40 binocular to be very similar to the Fujinon Techno Stabi binocular we also tested.

They offer a magnification factor of 14x coupled with 40 mm objective lenses and use black rubber armor coating in combination with a polycarbonate case, though its molded into a slightly different shape than the Fujinon.

The rear case panel looks identical. It holds a pair of adjustable eyepieces, the battery case cover release, and in the upper right-hand corner the focus knob. The interpupillary distance adjustment is the same too.

Other common features include: four AA batteries located in a latched compartment on the bottom side of the binocular case, rubber eyecups extending back from the ocular lenses that must be folded down to accommodate eyeglass wearers, and a removable hand strap that fits on either of the case.

The Nikon StabilEyes 14x40 binocular weighs in at 47.5 ounces.

Nikon uses the same sophisticated stabilization system as the Fujinon Techno Stabi binocular. However, the Nikon engineers decided to take it one step further by adding a second operational mode.

Nikon calls their system VR for vibration reduction. According to Greg Chevalier, from Nikon Binocular Marketing, this Nikon binocular has a feature that is unique compared to other IS binoculars—the dual stabilizing modes (Land/Onboard). Nikon had these modes engineered into the binocular to dampen different types of vibration and other movements.

The Land mode reduces hand-shake and other smaller vibration-type movements (to a limit of + or – ½ degree) while the Onboard mode compensated for larger movements like those experienced on the water, etc. (to a limit of + or – up to 5 degrees).

Our testers found the Nikon image stabilizing system performed on par with the Fujinon when operated in the Onboard mode.

Focusing is accomplished using a single diopter on the right eyepiece and a center-focus knob on the top of the case. The diopter scale is only marked with a plus, minus, and an index. No numerical scale is provided.

These binoculars are focused by using the center-focus knob with the right eye closed, and then with the left eye closed refocus the right eye image with the diopter adjustment. Once done any further focusing is done only with the center-focus. We found the center-focus knob a bit hard to turn with one finger.

A momentary press of the power button located on top of the case turns on the Nikon StabilEyes 14x40 binocular. A second press activates the VR system. You’ll know it’s working by the electric-motor whirring sound that emanates momentarily from the case. A small button centered on top toggles between the Land and Onboard modes. A momentary press of the power-off button shuts down the system.

The Nikon StabilEyes earned excellent ratings from our testers for viewability. The VR system in the Nikons held the image very steady and made viewing distant targets comparable to the Fujinon Techno Stabi binocular.

Nikon ships the StabilEyes with a padded cloth case that we found was not big enough to hold the binoculars and the padded neck strap.

These binoculars are not equipped with front lens.

It carries a 1-year warranty.

Though this Nikon binocular matched the Fujinon Techno Stabi in performance the Nikon costs a couple hundred dollars more and ships with a less robust case.

We found the Nikon StabilEyes 14x40 binocular priced at $1199 at West Marine.

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