Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 Laser Rangefinder Binoculars Review

Last updated on October 1st, 2023

Why carry two tools around when you can combine the two into one. A two in one setup has its advantages, you save on weight, space, and save time not having to change tools on the run. The new Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 rangefinding binoculars combine binoculars and rangefinding into the one streamlined platform.

This isn’t our first look at a product from Steiner, we have also been behind the Steiner Ranger 6 and Nighthunter H35 thermal monocular. These products from Steiner have left a lasting impression with the high level of quality and useability delivered.

Steiner

Steiner are renowned for their use of high-quality glass in all their optics and I can safely say the Predator LRF 10×42’s are no exception. Based in Germany, Steiner was started by Karl Steiner in 1947. The company has a long-standing reputation for producing rugged optics with high quality material.

Magnification

The set has 10x magnification which provides a 344ft field of view at 1000 yards. This is more than other rangefinding binoculars in the same price bracket such as the Vortex Fury’s which come in at 321ft at 1000 yards.

The rangefinder on the Predator LRF works from 5 meters to 1800 meters or 5 to 1969 yards. When pressing the button to range a target, the readout is almost instant. The Steiner Predator LRF’s also provide angle compensation for true distance when looking uphill or downhill. 

Construction 

One of the major strengths of this set is its solid construction. Just like its military and marine binocular counterparts from Steiner, they are built to take everything working in the field has to throw at them. The solid construction adds some extra weight to the set but provides an extremely durable piece of kit.

Another standout feature is how streamline the Steiner Predator’s are. Other sets within the price bracket often have protruding parts such as the battery housing or focus wheels such as on the Bushnell Fusion. That’s not the case with the Predator LRF’s. The Predator’s design minimises any risk of snagging when pulling them out of a chest rig or pack.

The eye cups ensure a great seal with your eyes and limit unwanted light from obstructing your view. The eye cups are rotary so even when wearing glasses they can be positioned to best suit the user.

Focusing is made easy with the fast focus wheel for adjustments which is incredibly smooth and has the right amount of tension. The focus range is from 16.4ft or 5.1m out to infinity. Individual diopter adjustment ensures you can adjust the binoculars to suit each users’ eyes. The exit pupil diameter of 4.2mm is standard for 10×42’s and is in line with its competitors.

To beat the elements, Predator LRF’s also have a high-quality textured finish to assist in maintaining a good grip. As you would expect from high end binoculars, the entire set is waterproof and fog proof. This includes the battery housing which is in the middle of the binoculars near the focus wheel and requires 1 x CR2 battery.

The front and rear lenses are protected by lens caps which are attached to the main body, meaning you wont lose the caps or struggle to find them after use. Steiner also offer a lifetime heritage warranty on the Predators, which is fairly standard in most high end optics manufacturers but good to know that they will replace them if you have any issues.

Reticle 

The digital readout is sharp and not too crowded with data. The display includes the ranging point of aim, range to target (can be meters or yards) and angle compensation. I put them to work during heavy rain and was easily able to range at 318m.

The laser range finding distance is from 4m out to 1800m with a +/- 1m accuracy. The ranging modes include rain, long-distance, short-distance and a continuous scan mode to quickly learn a landscape.

Glass

Together with the solid construction and slimline design, the high-quality glass is the other major strength of the Steiner Predator LRF’s. The Predators roof prism design displays an image that is crisp and has a very high light transmission.

The glass used has ‘Predator’ diamond coating which is a secretive Steiner technology that generates superior light transmission and high contrast imaging. The glass quality in the Predator’s is impressive and it’s always a good feeling looking through premium glass.

Weight

The Predator LRF’s come in at 1015 g / 35.8oz. This is in line with other competitors in the binocular/rangefinder combination category.

Conclusion 

The Predator binocular and rangefinder combo lives up to my high expectations of a premium product from Steiner. The premium glass, bomb proof construction and linear design is where these binoculars shine. All these features work well in the compact design that provides the military ruggedness and durability you expect from Steiner.

Pros 

• High Definition Glass
• Solid Construction
• Fast Ranging
• Streamlined Design

Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 Laser Rangefinder Binoculars

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Specifications

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