Optics aficionados and fans of Steiner Binoculars are very familiar with the Steiner Peregrine Binoculars.  They probably became even more familiar in 2008 when the Steiner Peregrine XP were awarded the “Optic of the Year” award by American Hunter Magazine.  This high end binocular comes in two variants: Steiner 10x44 Peregrine XP Binoculars 814, and Steiner 8x44 Peregrine XP Binoculars 804.  These binoculars feature some of the most cutting edge attributes available, which makes them useful as both bird watching binoculars and hunting binoculars.
The Peregrine binoculars XP by Steiner use lightweight magnesium housing as well as Steiner’s unique nitrogen purging and pressurization system to keep water out.  These are one of the most waterproof binoculars available.  From an optics standpoint, you cannot help but smile.  44mm objective lenses mean that you will be receiving plenty of light.  The specially coated 30 mm ocular lens alongside XP Lens Technology mean that focusing time will be minimal for both up close and distant objects.  In addition, the new specifications offer the user an unusually high depth of field, uncommon with roof prism binoculars and extremely advantageous in low light bird watching.
Once you get your hands on these binoculars, you will not want to let go.  The new ergonomically designed body, and the durable protective rubber covering give these binoculars a very sturdy feel.
How do you decide which of these German Binoculars to buy?  As always, Optics Planet Inc. recommends purchasing products that fit your needs.  The same way you do not need a sledge hammer to drive in a thumb tac, you do not need extra magnification if you plan on observing from relatively close distances.  If this is the case, you should get the Steiner 8x44 Peregrine XP Binoculars 804 because their magnification is smaller.  There are advantages to having lower power binoculars; a wide field of view is one of them.  At 1,000 yards, the Peregrine XP 804 have a 390 feet FOV, while the Peregrine XP 814 Binoculars have a field of view of 328 feet.  Also, 8x magnification results in a larger exit pupil which translates to a slightly brighter picture.  Finally, the 8x Peregrine Binoculars are easier to focus because they are less sensitive to the slight trembling in your arm when peering through them.  Do not be discouraged from buying the 10x Peregrine Binoculars.  These are extremely powerful binoculars for bird watching, and in the right hands can yield a spectacular image.  Just keep in mind that they are more difficult for novices to use as birding binoculars.

The ATN Thermal-Eye X50 is an entry level ATN thermal imager.  Thermal imagers detect heat signatures from all objects generating more heat than their surroundings.  You may recognize the use of this technology from the show “Cops.”  After the drunk driver crashes into a tree, he emerges from his car and tries to escape the police.  Little does he know that soaring above is a police helicopter equipped with a powerful thermal imager capable of pinpointing his location no matter where he runs.  Thermal imaging cameras let you harness the same power for your purposes.  The Thermal-Eye X 50 by ATN serves a variety of purposes:
•Firefighters can find victims in low visibility and smoky conditions.  Also, after a fire is extinguished, firefighters can quickly identify the remaining hotspots.
•Rescuers can detect casualties in rubble for faster search and rescue.
•Law Enforcement officers can spot criminals trying to escape the law.
•Military officers can use thermal imaging for any of the above purposes and others

Comparable in price to a Gen 2 Night Vision unit, the ATN Thermal-Eye X50 offers certain advantages over conventional nocturnal imaging devices.   Because it is impossible to hide a heat signature, neither a camouflaged fugitive, nor a coyote in the brush can go undetected from this thermal imager.  In fact, the ATN Thermal Eye is so sensitive that it can read your palm print on the surface of a table after you have removed your hand, or the heat generated from the friction from under your footstep.  It can even be used to identify heat leaks in areas of your house; this can save you hundreds of dollars on your heating bills.  Despite the high level of sensitivity, this thermal camera is immune to the bloom effects of bright lights typical of Night Vision Devices.  Another interesting distinction between the thermal imaging devices and traditional night vision devices is that the X50 has an output which can be connected to or recorded on a television or computer.  The point is, this thermal imaging camera is very sensitive, and has a wide variety of useful applications.  If you think this device can be useful to you, and you have the money to invest, you should seriously consider the ATN Thermal-Eye X-50 Thermal Imaging Camera as an alternative or accompaniment to your NVDs.

Do not forget that thermal cameras require two commercial AA batteries, either lithium batteries or alkaline batteries.

The Swiss Army knife with cigar cutter by Wenger is a favorite knife by far! It has everything you need whether you're going hunting, birding, or just relaxing outdoors. The unique feature, which really gives this butterfly knife a great spin, is the cigar cutter with double-honed edges. It is really a great folding knife to have because nobody would carry around bulky cigar cutters. When you travel to your summer home and want to unwind, your cigar cutting needs are all taken care of by your Wenger Swiss Pocket Knife 16881. The bright red color is easy to spot if you drop it in the forest while you're camping or lose it in your oversized hiking bag. The Wenger Cigars Cutter also comes with 2.4" springless self-sharpening scissors, which never fail their job. The corkscrew is always there to keep your romantic getaway truly romantic. Or, if you're on a more laid-back trip, the Wenger Army Knife has your back with built in can opener and can lifter capabilities. Furthermore, this survival knife is really a life saver and if you're ever in a tight spot, the Wenger will help you out with reamer, awl, patented locking screwdriver, and wire stripper features. This custom knife is so versatile and unisex that it even comes with tweezers, a toothpick, and an all-purpose 2.5" blade. The Wenger Swiss Pocket Knife Cigar Cutter also comes in stainless steel (16630) and stainless steel/leather (16886) versions.

In addition to Wenger Swiss Pocket Knives Cigar Cutter with Scissors, make sure to check out Wenger Watches and other Wenger products offered in our store.