Let's make it clear from the start: the Steiner M830r LRF 1535nm binoculars are designed for military & law enforcement. So, no fancy toys but professional-grade equipment that combines state-of-the-art high-precision optics with a powerful rangefinder.
The latter can calculate target distance from 25 meters up to an impressive 6,000 meters, using a wavelength invisible to night vision devices. The SUMR (Steiner Universal Milling Reticle), a milliradian ranging reticle with very thin lines and numbers for extremely accurate measurements, is used.
As explained by the manufacturer, “opponents won’t know they’re being targeted, your position stays hidden, and challenging targets can be zeroed in.” Which stresses the M830r LRF 1535nm binoculars' military and law enforcement nature.
Steiner M830r LRF 1535nm: features
We field-tested the Steiner M830r LRF 1535nm binoculars and the impression we received is that this a truly effective piece of equipment. Using the rangefinder is extremely easy, accurate and defined. Just by pushing a button you'll obtain the exact range in a blink. Depending on which side of the Pond you are, ranges can be set to meters or yards. The battery used is a standard CR123A lithium type.
The already familiar Steiner's patented Sports-Auto Focus System provides a sharp view of anything from 20 yards out: you just have to focus each eyepiece to your vision once, and images will remain razor-sharp even when chasing objects in movement. Magnification is a comfortable 8x.
No surprise considering their intended use, the Steiner M830r LRF 1535nm binoculars are quite rugged too: the floating Prism System uses flexible silicon lens mount to absorb severe shock, impact and abuse without damage.
The durable Makrolon polycarbonate housing is further protected by a NBR Rubber Armoring, creating a lightweight, noiseless chassis that withstands 11 Gs of impact. The rubber armoring also improves grip even with wet or sweaty hands. A two-way valve system seals 14-psi pressurized dry nitrogen into the optic, for fogproof clarity in any condition. Waterproof is guaranteed up to 5 m.
The ergonomic design shifts the center of gravity into the palms for comfortable, long-time observation and their round-the-shoulder shape won't hang up on hatches and doors in urgent situations. It's fairly compact too, with a nice feel of solidity. Needless to say, images are bright and pin-sharp at any range.
In our video you can see the binoculars in action:
Steiner M830r LRF 1535nm: technical data
| Model: | Steiner M830r LRF 1535nm |
| Magnification: | 8x |
| Objective lens: | 30 mm (1.2 in.) |
| Field of view: | 114 m (342 ft) |
| Ranging distance: | 6,000 meters (6564
yd.) |
| Focus system: | individual eyepiece
focussing |
| Optics systems: | fully multi-coated |
| Close focus: | 20 m (66ft) |
| Exit pupil: | 3.75 mm (0.15 in.) |
| Luminosity: | 14.1 |
| Twilight factor: | 15.5 |
| Waterproof submersion: | up to 5 m (16 ft.) |
| Weight: | 942 g (33 oz) |
More information about the Steiner M830r LRF 1535nm binocular can be found on Steiner website.
Another professional tool for long-range Steiner: we took a close look at the tactical riflescope 4-28x56 M7Xi.
