Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 Review: My Field Test

Last updated on August 17th, 2026

This Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 review covers the original item 2057 rangefinding binocular, which I handled and tested in the field. Its standout result was a fast 318m reading in heavy rain, backed by very good glass, a clean display and a streamlined housing that does not feel covered in external electronics.

The model combines 10×42 binoculars with a 5m-to-1,800m class laser rangefinder, angle compensation, rain/short/long-distance modes and continuous scan. It weighs 35.8oz or about 1,015g, so the value is carrying one substantial device instead of separate binoculars and a monocular rangefinder.

Quick verdict: the Predator LRF 10×42 earns its place through optical quality, quick focus, weather-resistant construction and a simple range display. It is best for a hunter who wants premium observation and basic angle-compensated ranging in one unit. It is less suitable for someone who wants onboard ballistics, Bluetooth profile transfer or the lighter weight of a small handheld rangefinder.

Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 Specifications

This page covers the original Predator LRF, not the newer ePredator LRF. Steiner currently lists both product pages, but the newer ePredator has different specifications, including a 15-to-3,000m range, 900g weight, Bluetooth and Steiner Connect app functions. Do not combine the two spec sheets when comparing a used or retailer-listed unit.

How I Tested the Predator LRF

My hands-on use concentrated on the parts that decide whether a rangefinding binocular replaces two separate tools: the view, focus, handling, display and ability to obtain a range when conditions are poor. I did not run a laboratory transmission test or a measured maximum-distance course, so this review does not claim an independently verified 1,800m range.

The most useful field check came during heavy rain. I was able to range a target at 318m without difficulty, and the readout appeared quickly. That does not prove the full published range, but it does show that the rain mode and optical/display combination remained useful in a condition that can expose weaker ranging performance.

I also assessed the focus wheel, eyecups, grip texture, integrated battery housing and the way the binoculars moved in and out of a carry setup. Those details matter more over a long day than a maximum-range number that may only apply to an ideal reflective target.

Glass Quality and Focus

The glass was one of the strongest parts of the Predator LRF. The view was crisp, contrast was strong and the 10×42 format gave enough detail for open-country observation without moving into a large 12x or 15x binocular. Steiner attributes the contrast and transmission to its Predator Diamond Coating; my useful observation is simply that the image looked like premium binocular glass rather than an electronics-first compromise.

The central Fast-Close-Focus wheel was smooth and had enough resistance to stay where it was set. Steiner lists a 16.4ft close focus, and the wheel needs little rotation to move from close work toward infinity. Individual diopter adjustment lets both barrels be matched to the user’s eyes before the centre wheel is used in the field.

The 4.2mm exit pupil is normal for a 10×42. It gives a sensible balance between magnification, objective size and carry bulk. The binocular is not a substitute for a much larger low-light optic, but the view remained a genuine strength rather than the price paid for adding a rangefinder.

Ranging Performance and Modes

Steiner lists a range from roughly 5m to 1,800m, or 5.5 to 1,969 yards. The practical limit depends on the target. A large reflective object can return a reading farther away than an animal, a dark tree or a small steel plate, so the top number should not be read as a guaranteed game range.

The range display is deliberately uncluttered. It provides the aiming mark, distance in metres or yards and angle-compensated information without turning the binocular into a full ballistic computer. That simplicity made the result easy to read during my rain test.

Angle compensation is useful in steep country, but it should not be confused with a complete firing solution. The binocular can provide line-of-sight or corrected horizontal-distance information; it does not know the rifle’s muzzle velocity, ballistic coefficient, zero, sight height or wind.

Handling, Controls and Build

The streamlined housing is a real advantage. The battery and electronics sit within the bridge rather than creating a large external lump, and there are fewer protrusions to catch when drawing the binoculars from a harness or pack. The textured NBR rubber armour also gives a secure grip in wet conditions.

The rotary eyecups can be adjusted for glasses, and the 16mm eye relief is workable for a 10×42 hunting binocular. The attached objective covers reduce the chance of losing caps, while the nitrogen-filled and one-metre waterproof specification provide the expected weather protection for this class.

Construction feels substantial, but the same solidity contributes to the weight. This is not a small monocular with a laser added. It is a full 10×42 binocular chassis with electronics, and a harness is a much better carrying solution than leaving more than a kilogram on a neck strap all day.

Weight: One Device Is Not Always a Lighter Device

At 35.8oz, the Predator LRF weighs about 1,015g before covers and a harness. The right comparison is the total system it replaces. Premium 10×42 binoculars plus a separate handheld rangefinder can approach or exceed that combined weight, but the two-device setup lets the user choose a lighter binocular or keep the rangefinder in a pocket.

The integrated Steiner wins on speed and simplicity: glass, press one control and read the distance without swapping devices. Separate units win on redundancy and flexibility. If one part of an integrated binocular needs repair, both observation and ranging leave the kit together.

Predator LRF vs ePredator LRF

The current ePredator is not merely a renamed unit. It is lighter, carries a longer published range and adds connected functions. The original Predator remains attractive where a straightforward display, familiar controls and a lower used or clearance price matter more than app integration.

How It Compares with Other Rangefinder Formats

The best handheld rangefinders guide covers pocket-sized alternatives, while the weapon-mounted comparison covers on-rifle systems. The best format depends on whether observation, portability or speed from the firing position is the priority.

What I Liked

• Glass quality: the image looked crisp, bright and appropriately premium.
• Fast focus: the centre wheel was smooth and quick to adjust.
• Wet-weather ranging: I obtained a clear 318m reading during heavy rain.
• Clean display: the distance and angle information were easy to interpret.
• Streamlined housing: the electronics did not create awkward external protrusions.
• Secure handling: the textured armour and rotary eyecups worked well in a field-oriented design.

What I Would Change

• Weight: 1,015g calls for a supportive binocular harness.
• No ballistic solver: the unit gives range and angle information, not a rifle-specific correction.
• No modern app workflow: buyers wanting Bluetooth and map functions should compare the ePredator.
• Maximum range remains a claim: my useful field result was 318m in rain, not a controlled 1,800m test.
• Integrated-device risk: a fault can remove both the binocular and rangefinder at once.

Who Should Buy the Steiner Predator LRF?

• Hunters who spend substantial time glassing and want one-button ranging in the same view.
• Buyers who prioritise optical quality and simple controls over a full ballistic computer.
• Open-country users comfortable carrying a 10×42 binocular weighing about one kilogram.
• Someone considering a retailer, clearance or used item 2057 and able to confirm warranty coverage.

Who Should Choose Another Option?

• A minimalist hunter who wants a rangefinder that disappears into a pocket.
• A shooter who needs an onboard Applied Ballistics or GeoBallistics solution.
• A buyer who wants Bluetooth transfer, saved map points and the current ePredator feature set.
• A rifle shooter who needs the range displayed without leaving the firing position.

Price, Model Check and Retailer Links

Before buying, confirm whether the listing is the Predator LRF item 2057 reviewed here or the newer ePredator. Compare the label, published range, weight and Bluetooth description rather than relying on a shortened retailer title.

The retailer destinations retained from the original review are the EuroOptic listing, ScopeList listing and Amazon listing. Availability and price can change, and an affiliate link may earn PrecisionRifle a commission at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far does the Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 range?

Steiner lists 5.5 to 1,969 yards, or about 5m to 1,800m, for item 2057. Real range depends on target size, reflectivity, angle, weather and stability.

Did I test it in bad weather?

Yes. I obtained an easy 318m reading during heavy rain. That supports the practical usefulness of the rain mode, but it is not a maximum-range test.

Does the Predator LRF calculate a ballistic correction?

No. It provides range and angle-compensated distance information. A rifle-specific elevation and wind solution still requires a ballistic solver with the correct profile and conditions.

How heavy is it?

Steiner lists 35.8oz, about 1,015g. A binocular harness is the sensible carry method for extended use.

Is the Predator LRF the same as the ePredator LRF?

No. The current ePredator has a different 15-to-3,000m specification, 900g weight, Bluetooth and Steiner Connect app features. This review covers the earlier item 2057 model.

Is it waterproof?

Steiner lists waterproofing to one metre and nitrogen filling for fog resistance. Battery and lens covers still need to be correctly closed and maintained.

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• Steiner Ranger 6 riflescope review
• Steiner Nighthunter H35 thermal review
• Best handheld rangefinders for hunting and long range
• Maven RF.1 vs CRF.1 vs RFZ.1 comparison

Final Verdict

The Steiner Predator LRF 10×42 worked because neither half felt like an afterthought. The binocular view was strong enough to use as the primary observation tool, while the clean display and quick 318m heavy-rain result showed that the rangefinder could contribute in real field conditions.

Its limitation is not quality but generation and format. At about 1,015g it is substantial, and it does not offer the connected or ballistic functions of newer alternatives. For a buyer who wants rugged 10×42 glass plus straightforward ranging in one streamlined unit, it remains a convincing design. Buyers wanting current connectivity should compare the ePredator before deciding.