At 56mm in diameter, the lenses are larger than your standard 42mm version and thus are able to collect and let in more light. This in combination with Steiner’s fully multi-coated, High-Contrast Optical system transmits more light through the instrument with less unwanted reflections and thus produces brighter better quality views.

Another indication of their excellent low light capabilities is the very large 7mm exit pupil generated by the 8×56 combination. These large shafts of light exiting the eyepieces are able to match even the most dilated pupils and thus means your eyes are always supplied with enough light for you to make out the brightest image possible.

The tradeoff here, however, is that these larger lenses make for a slightly larger and heavier instrument and thus these are less suitable for the lightweight, minimalist hunter. Note: Using this binocular with a good binocular harness would be a good option if you do need to carry a lot of other gear like a rifle or bow and rangefinder over long distances.

Able to not only withstand but actually thrive in the toughest environments these binoculars have an advertised operational temperature range of between –15°C to +55°C and feature a nitrogen filled, fully waterproof housing to avoid fogging up in all weather conditions.

The housing itself is made from Steiner’s extremely tough Makrolon polycarbonate which can survive huge forces and impacts. Added to this is the NBR-Longlife rubber armour on the exterior surface that adds a further layer of protection, is resistant to perishing and provides a great non-slip surface even when wet.

Whilst the body is fairly large, the centrally located focus wheel is well positioned and easy to reach and turn even when using just one finger or whilst wearing thick winter gloves. This along with Steiner’s Fast Close Focus mechanism that requires less turning helps you achieve the perfect focus in less time making sure you never miss any of the action.

These, as well as many of their other great features, makes the Steiner Ranger Xtreme 8×56 binocular an ideal choice for the hunter, wildlife observer or general nature enthusiast who often operates at short-to-mid range distances in areas like dense forests or at times when the sun is just below the horizon and thus need the best possible capability in low light.

Steiner Ranger Xtreme 8×56 Specifications

Manufacturer Steiner

Binoculars series Steiner Ranger Xtreme

Made in Germany

In production since 2013

Warranty 10 years

SKU 51180900

Prism type Roof – Schmidt/Pechan

Variable magnification No

Magnification. 8×

Diopter range

Lens diameter. 56mm

Exit pupil. 7mm

Field of view… 125m/1000m

Field of view (deg.). 7.16°

Apparent field of view (deg.). 0°

Eye relief. 0mm

Close focus. 0m

Twilight Factor 21.17

Light transmission

Relative Brightness 49

Lens coating Fully Multicoated

Length. 183mm

Width. 142mm

Height. 80mm

Weight. 1130g

Material No

Color Blue

Working temperature range –20 to +80 °C

Filled with Nitrogen

Focusing system Central

Diopter setting position Left eye-piece

Min. interpupillary. 0

Max. interpupillary. 0

Body type Single hinge

Waterproof Yes

Fogproof Yes

Tripod adaptable No

Compass Yes

Built-in rangefinder No

Image stabilizer No

Floatable No