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There were several exciting new Nikon product announcements on the 2017 SHOT Show floor, and now that the show is over, we thought we’d recap all the excellent products that were unveiled. Nikon Sport Optics has really stepped up their game this year, and two new rifle scope lines, two binocular models and a unique rangefinder offering created a buzz at the always crowded Nikon booth. Let’s dig deeper into what each new Nikon line offers before they hit the shelves this year.
Nikon Black Force 1000 Rifle Scopes
First up, Nikon has created an impressive AR scope in the Nikon Black Force1000, and whether you’re into 3-gun or just want a recreational scope for your AR platform, the Black Force 1000 is the first place you should look for a 2017 rifle scope. The scope is available in a 1-4×24 setting and it features a glass-etched, illuminated reticle in the second focal plane. Nikon has developed a new reticle for this scope, the SPEEDFORCE reticle, and this horseshoe illuminated reticle with BDC circles and hash marks is designed to excel in both close and medium range engagements.
When placed at 1x power, the Black Force can be used as a both eyes open scope, but as you dial up the power you can use it as a traditional precision scope. The scope offers 10 levels of illumination intensity settings and comes with spring-loaded instant-zero reset turrets. The Black Force has been tested for recoil and rugged use, and it’s built to stand up and hold zero even in tough conditions. As a match for Black Force scopes, Nikon has created a Black Cantilever Mount perfect for the demands of mounting a scope in proper position on any AR platform.
- Black Force1000 1-4X24: $399.95 MSRP.
- Black Series Mounts (30mm): $139.95 MSRP.
Nikon BlackX1000 Rifle Scopes
As a long-range companion to the Black Force optics, Nikon announced their new series of Black X1000 Rifles Scopes at SHOT this year. The Black X1000 is Nikon’s newest response to the growing long-range shooting trend, and they pack a lot of punch in a reasonably-priced scope. The Black X1000 starts with tactical-style reticles with either X-MOA or X-MRAD measurements, and they are available in either non-illuminated or illuminated reticles in the X-MOA and only the illuminated reticle in the X-MRAD. A 10 intensity setting knob allows you to adjust illuminated reticles to your preference. When the X-MOA or X-MRAD reticles are applied with Nikon Spot On Ballistic Match Technology, they can be easily applied to any shooting scenario or caliber.
The Black X1000 is available in four different models: 4-16x50SF X-MOA (non-illuminated), 4-16x50SF X-MOA (illuminated), 4-16x50SF X-MRAD (illuminated) and 6-24x50SF X-MRAD (illuminated). Each scope offers a serious level of magnification adjustment allowing shooters to really dial in when shooting long range. Just like the Black Force series, Nikon has developed Black Precision Mounts built specifically for these 30mm rifle scopes.
- Black X1000 4-16x50SF X-MOA: $499.95
- Black X1000 4-16x50SF X-MOA Illuminated: $599.95
- Black X1000 4-16x50SF X-MRAD Illuminated: $599.95
- Black X1000 6-24x50SF X-MRAD Illuminated: $649.95
- Black Precision 1-Piece Mount (MSR): $139.95
- Black Precision 1-Piece Mount (Medium): $139.95
Nikon LaserForce Rangefinding Binoculars
Another big announcement at the SHOT booth this year was Nikon’s first rangefinding binocular, the LaserForce 10×42. The LaserForce combines quality Nikon optics with their powerful rangefinding technology for the best of both worlds. This binocular ranges up to 1900 yards on reflective targets, and it remarkably ranges up to 1400 yards on trees and 1100 yards on deer. This binocular has a quick range rate so you’re not waiting around on a reading, and it can used in single measurement or continuous measurement modes (up to 8 seconds). However what may be most appealing about this binocular is its price, at only $1199.95, it’s rare to see a rangefinding binocular at such a reasonable price point with the power of the LaserForce.
- LaserForce 10×42 Rangefinder Binocular: $1,199.95.
Nikon Monarch HG Binocular
To pair with the remarkable new LaserForce Binoculars, Nikon unveiled their most advanced Monarch Binoculars ever in the Monarch HG series. Once again Nikon has applied their photo imaging technology to their sport optics line, and it really shines in the Monarch HG. Constructed with Nikon’s ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass and utilizing a unique Field Flattener Lens System, the HG is one of a kind. Instead of using concave lenses like most binoculars, the Monarch HG lenses are flat. This process provides a sharp view all the way to the edge of the lens, and they have a remarkably large field of view compared to similar binoculars. Not to be overlooked, Nikon has worked to shed weight in this binocular so you’ll be able to glass all day without the fatigue of an unnecessarily heavy binocular. Those looking for a unique and exceptionally clear binocular should check out the Monarch HG.
- Monarch HG 8×42 Binocular: $979.95
- Monarch HG 10×42 Binocular: $999.95
Nikon Monarch 7i VR
Finally, Nikon officially unveiled their world’s first Rangefinder with Vibration Reduction technology. The Monarch 7i VR works to stabilize the operator’s hand as they range targets, which results in faster, more accurate readings in the field. The Vibration Reduction technology has been prevalent in Nikon cameras, but this is a game-changer to bring the technology to a rangefinder. We were lucky to get our hands on the Monarch 7i VR early, and for a comprehensive review check out Tony Martins’ review at: Nikon Monarch 7i VR Laser Rangefinder Review.
Monarch 7i VR Laser Rangefinder: $399.95.
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