GREELEY, CO- In the falcon family, the Merlin is a keen-eyed predator with a unique robustness that makes it an exceptionally effective bird of prey. In the binocular world, the Steiner Merlin has emulated many of the attributes of its namesake, making the Merlin a favorite among birders and outdoor enthusiasts. For 2012, Steiner has upgraded this series with the introduction of the new Merlin Pro line.
These lightweight, compact roof-prism binoculars have been upgraded with several new features and are now available in four models: 8x42, 10x32, 10x42 and 10x50. Birders and wildlife observers will appreciate the rapid target acquisition and close focusing these binoculars offer.
"We think the birding community will be excited about the new Merlin Pro line with its enhanced features," stated Rob Siemers, general manager. "These binoculars offer features and performance previously found only on binoculars costing twice as much."
One of the most important upgrades for the Merlin Pro line is the high-contrast optical coatings that ensure brighter images with maximum color fidelity, while minimizing color fringing. Additionally, new twist-up eyepieces with contoured eye cups adjust perfectly to the desired amount of eye-relief for a crystal-clear image with or without eyeglasses. The new, Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) armoring makes the Merlin Pro rugged enough to withstand any weather conditions or rough handling.
Like its predecessor, the new Merlin Pro offers precise center focusing with incredible close focusing capabilities, long eye relief and phase-corrected roof prisms. It is lightweight, fogproof and waterproof. The unique earth-tone brown coloring of the Merlin Pros was specially developed by Steiner to blend into the outdoor environment.
Each binocular comes with a padded travel case, removable neoprene rain-guards for the ocular lenses and objective lens caps, and a padded neck strap for comfortable carrying and viewing at all times.
Available at retailers nationwide the first quarter of 2012, the suggested retail prices for the new Merlin Pro line are: 8x42 - $499; 10x32 - $499; 10x42 - $599; and 10x50 - $699.
Headquartered in Germany, Steiner has been widely acknowledged as a world leader in the manufacturing of high quality optics since 1947. In addition to the outdoor, hunting and marine markets, Steiner provides products to military and law enforcement worldwide. Allied forces around the world-including the U.S. Army and countless law enforcement agencies-have made Steiner their binocular of choice. For more information, contact: Steiner Binoculars, 920 54th Avenue, Suite 200, Greeley, CO 80634; call (970) 356-1670; or visit the company website at www.steiner-binoculars.com. Be sure to visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SteinerOptics.
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Steiner Merlin Pro Technical Specifications:
Product Item No. Weight Field of View Eye Relief Close Focusing
8x42 4481 18.3 oz 368 ft. @ 1,000 yds. 17.3 mm 6.6 ft.
10x32 4321 21.1 oz. 346 ft. @ 1,000 yds. 16.9 mm 6.6 ft.
10x42 4581 26.1 oz. 316 ft. @ 1,000 yds. 16 mm 6.6 ft.
10x50 4681 33.1 oz. 301 ft. @ 1,000 yds. 17 mm 6.6 ft.
