Magnification: 10X
Power Variability: Fixed
Objective Diameter: 25 mm
Close Focus Distance: 11.5 feet
Dimensions: 4.1 x 1.8 x 4.5 in
Weight: 9.9 oz
Field of View: 342 ft/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 10 mm/2.5 mm
Optics Coatings: Multi-coated
Glass: BaK-4
Prism System: Roof
Focus System: Center focus
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes
Eye cups: Twist-up
Tripod adaptable: No
Rangefinder: No
Best Uses: Hunting, For the Range, Event Observation, Sight Seeing
Nikon Trailblazer ATB 10x25 Binocular
The Trailblazer binocular may be a compact and little thing, but its fan base is larger than life. Perhaps that's a little bit of an exaggeration, but Nikon does have a track record of pleasing the crowd. The Trailblazer is another successful Nikon product that makes glassing a convenient activity no matter where you are and where it is on your person.
It's very small with dimensions of less than 5 inches round about. It barely weighs over half a pound, and it has a double hinge system that allows it to be folded for even more compactness when stowing away. When folded, it fits inside the included, snug Nikon travel case.
With high magnification and small objective lenses, you'll be compromising on exit pupil. However, for day time use the 2.5mm exit pupil will be absolutely fine with the wide 342 feet field of view. With multi-coated optics, BaK-4 prism glass, and Eco-glass all in the mix, high-resolution pictures and image quality can be guaranteed.
For a compact binocular, it also has a compact price tag under $100 - additional proof that this binocular is a major hit with the crowd. However, eye relief is quite short at 10mm. Most users find no problem with this because they don't wear glasses. If you do, you might want to look elsewhere. Additionally, the twist-up eyepieces don't have a locking mechanism and have said to be by users as "free of resistance." This might be a frustrating feature if they constantly come out of place for readjustments when you need to use the binoculars on the fly.
Pros:
- Price
- Eco-glass
- BaK-4 prism glass
- Wide field of view
- Fully weatherproof
Cons:
- Short eye relief
- Sensitive eyepieces
Trailblazer 10X25 Q&A:
What does ATB Stand For?
This is Nikon's acronym for All-Terrain-Binocular, and the Trailblazer sports the premium package. This means the binocular has full rubber armor on the housing to help prevent damage when trekking harsh terrain, bumping around in your vehicle, and for shockproof-ability when it takes some accidental falls and hits. It also means that it's fully waterproof and fogproof.
Can this Trailblazer Binocular be used for Hunting?
According to the specs, this would be a great back-up pair to keep in your backpack as a spare. However, during daytime hunting when the sun is out, there's no limits on what you can use this pair of binoculars for including hunting. You still have the high power 10X magnification, wide field of view, and ultra-compactness for wearing on your person or with your gear when out in the field. The same can be said for use at the range. Although, sight seeing, event observation, and hiking are some of the best applications for such a compact design.
Are these Nikon 10x25's good for Bird Watching?
These binoculars can get it done when you need something in an instant to marvel over the rare bird that came into view. However, if bird watching is your primary activity, you might want something with better optics to truly appreciate detail and colors. These are best for hitting the trails and scouting when you need something on the fly.
What are all the Included Accessories?
This particular Nikon ATB binocular comes with a travel case, compact binocular strap, eyepiece caps, and objective lens caps. As many free add-ons go, quality isn't always the best. Some users have said the eyepiece caps are way too loose for practical use, and the strap doesn't seem to be the most ergonomic option available. Despite this, there are many buyers that are happy with their buy and often stow it away in a pocket making the strap a non-issue.
Do the 10x25 Binoculars shake at high magnification?
There's always the possibility of unstable image quality at such high power. However, having a good, steady position with practice helps to eliminate shakiness as well as leaning on something solid and stable like against a tree, on the ground with your elbows, etc. Even with 10X power, there is no tripod bushing available on the Trailblazer for mounting.
Is the ATB Binocular easy to focus?
It has a fast focus eyepiece for quick viewing from 11.5 feet to infinity. It's very easy to get into range quickly. However, it might be a bit for a challenge for beginners to get a fine-tuned, sharp image since the focus is, well, quick - will take some practice.
What is the Warranty on the Trailblazer Binocular?
This binocular comes with Nikon's Limited Lifetime Warranty. Unfortunately, this warranty is not transferable (according to the fine print), so you have to be the original owner with proof of purchase to submit a claim under the warranty. Of course, the warranty doesn't extend to the included accessories.
Noteworthy Features:
- Fast focus eyepiece for instantaneous glassing
- Eco-glass and BaK-4 prism glass
- Extremely durable with rubber armor and non-slip grips
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Excellent for daytime use in hunting, scouting, and trailblazing!
Our Verdict on the Trailblazer 10x25 Binocular
To glass it up, the Nikon Trailblazer ATB 10x25 binocular is a nifty and tough optic that will endure the harsh terrain you plan on braving. It's also a multi-purpose optic that can get you front-row image quality if you've landed the cheap tickets in the back of the stands. However, daytime use is where it will shine, and glasses wearers might want more eye relief in a binocular that the Trailblazer can't quite provide.
Another loved Nikon ATB binocular is the Monarch 7 8x42. You have everything that you could possibly want to see on a premium pair of binoculars from optical quality to the popular all-terrain build. Just to warn you, expect to see weight, size, and price leap up, but then again, so do the advantages!
For another alternative with the same 10x25 specs, you have the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Compact binoculars. If you wanted more eye relief, you got it. There's a few points where the Bushnell does it better, but there may be one or two things that you'll have to compromise on when going to a Bushnell over a Nikon.
Overall, the Nikon Trailblazer is a great buy, especially if you're looking for a quality backup binocular that's no skin off your nose to stow on your person. However, it just may be your go-to optic and not a second-rate one if you plan on hitting the trails. Don't just stroll, trail blaze!
Further Reading
