Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30
A Comprehensive Review of the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30 Rangefinder
As an avid outdoorsman and enthusiast of binoculars, I recently had the opportunity to put the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30 through its paces. In this review, I’ll share my experiences, highlighting the pros and cons of this impressive rangefinder.
Design and Build Quality
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30 boasts a robust and durable design, built to withstand the rigors of the great outdoors. The rubber-armored twist-up eyecups ensure a comfortable fit for users with glasses, and the silicone-filled eyepiece rings prevent moisture and cold from reaching the interior. The Open Hinge system allows for easy lens protection, a feature that sets this rangefinder apart from its competitors.
Optical Performance
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30 features a 7x magnification and a 30mm objective lens, providing a compact and lightweight package. The Steiner ‘s proprietary Hi-D NuClear optical system ensures crystal-clear images, with minimal distortion and excellent light transmission. The 11-layer Hauptenus coatings further enhance the optics, reducing glare and improving contrast.
Rangefinder Functionality
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30 is a robust and reliable rangefinder, featuring a 5.5-second lockout interval to prevent accidental range readings. The unit measures distances from 10 to 1,000 yards, with an accuracy of ±1 yard. Additional features include a 1/4 MOA per tick subtension, making it ideal for scouting, hunting, and wildlife observation.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30:
Pros:
- Robust and durable design with rubber-armored twist-up eyecups and silicone-filled eyepiece rings
- Excellent optical performance with Hi-D NuClear optics and 11-layer Hauptenus coatings
- Accurate rangefinder with a 5.5-second lockout interval and measurement range from 10 to 1,000 yards
- Compact and lightweight at 1 lb 3 oz (590g)
Cons:
- Limited field of view at 30mm objective lens size
- Some users may find the rangefinder functionality rather basic, compared to more advanced models
- No built-in inclinometer or angle compass
Conclusion
The Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30 is an excellent choice for those seeking a rugged and reliable rangefinder for hunting, scouting, or general outdoor activities. While it may not offer the most advanced features, its robust design, excellent optical performance, and accurate rangefinder capabilities make it an excellent value for its price point. If you’re in the market for a high-quality, no-frills rangefinder, the Steiner Navigator Open Hinge 7×30 is definitely worth considering.
