I’m not sure if it was part of a mid-life crisis or just a change of direction, but a few years ago I really got into bird watching. It started from my kitchen window, moved from the backyard, and I was hiking. All this led to the need for a good set of binoculars.
At the same time, I found this wonderful nature center in Quechee, Vermont called Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences (VINS). Although VINS is known for various things, the most notable is its Forest Canopy Walk, which takes you up and down the forest to give you a true bird’s eye view of everything. That’s where I was introduced to it for the first time Provisions of NOCS binoculars and monoculars, sold in their gift shop.
Where the look and feel of binoculars are often standard, NOCS Provisions has taken binoculars and monoculars and made them cool by creating a combination of colors and an attractive product presence to match. Another thing is that their products are made of high quality materials and have exceptional clarity for the recreational user, from a more affordable product than names like Nikon, Maven, and ZEISS.
Since VINS is the source of my interest in sunglasses, it felt right to return there to check out the latest product from NOCS Provisions – the Zero Tube. Both in June and October, and many times in between, I took the opportunity to test the monocular and can confidently say that its balance between size, power, and clarity is exceptional. Oh! It also has a pocket clip.
Details
- Powerskip: 10x
- An objective lens: 25 mm
- Field of view: 341 ft @ 1000 yards
- Short focal length: 4.9 feet.
- Lens Coating: Fully loaded with many glasses, ED glass
- Prism: Roof / Section Painted BaK4
- Waterproof Rating: IPX7
- Fog prevention: Yes. Nitrogen filled and O-ring sealed
- Eye Relief: 16.3 mm
- The size: 4.33 in x 1.57 in x 1.73 in
- Weight:7.2 oz
NOCS Monoculars
The Zero Tube represents the third monocular in the NOCS lineup. There is first the Zoom Tube, then there is the Field Tube. The main difference between the two is that the Field Tube is rated entirely for the great outdoors, where the Zoom Tube is not. Additionally, the Field Tube is available in both 8×32 and 10×32, while the Zoom Tube is only available in 8×32.
While none of these are apples-to-apples equivalents to the Zero Tube, the Field Tube 10×32 is closely related. All three have the same type of prism; however, Field Tube coverage will provide additional clarity that pairs well with the 10×32’s ability to still perform at a fair level in low light conditions.
All told, of the three, the Field Tube is probably the best in terms of strength and flexibility. However, while monoculars are more compact than binoculars by design, the Zero Tube is the smallest of the series. To me, that adds to the whole ad when it comes to bird’s eye view and general mirroring (area scanning).
Unboxing and first thoughts
The Zero Tube is the smallest outdoor monocular I have ever come across. The focus knob is built into the barrel for one-handed adjustment, and the pocket clip is convenient for carrying. I think it’s better than a neck strap, which can be difficult if you’re wearing a pack or something else around your neck.
The Zero Tube feels solid and has the typical NOCS rubber grip. The focus is smooth, where I thought it would jump a little, as it is built into the tube and operated with one hand. In fact, I find the Zero Tube much easier to handle and adjust compared to the Zoom and Field Tubes. It’s not just the small size, but the placement of the focus knob on the body. All three can be used with one hand, but the way you hold and adjust the Zero Tube feels natural.
Monoculars vs. Binoculars
The major advantages of monoculars over binoculars are ease of use and one-handed use. Something Zero Tube excels at. However, for long-term use, Binoculars will usually give you a better viewing experience. That said, people who wear contact lenses or glasses can have a difficult time using binoculars.
I have been nearsighted all my life. Now that I’m older, I have to wear reading glasses, in addition to my contacts, when reading or looking at things up close. This causes a problem for me when I try to focus with the binoculars that is not there when using the monoculars. After checking Google, I think I’m not alone – this is really common. I have really benefited from the Zero Tube and monoculars in general. It’s easy for me to adjust and I use it for quick looks and long scans.
All in all
I’ve had a lot of fun using the Zero Tube over the past few months – both randomly and on planned trips. It’s compact enough to fit in your pocket or purse.
Although the Field Tube 10×32 is a more powerful monocular for $50 less, the Zero Tube’s advantages lie in its size and performance. It also has a wider field of view than a Field Tube, meaning you’ll see more in one shot with less distortion.
The fact that the focus knob is built into the body really makes adjusting the Zero Tube on the fly a breeze. And, as I said earlier, it’s not choppy – the focus change is seamless. At first, I was concerned about how the Zero Tube would work with gloves. I’m happy to report that there were no problems. It’s almost as if NOCS stuck some balls in to make the adjustment smooth on purpose.
In conclusion
NOCS has really grown as a brand over the past few years. I had the rare opportunity to test everything in their lineup, for one purpose or another. Their balance between form, function, and price is a real challenge in an industry known for binoculars and monoculars that can easily run $500 or more.
At $180, the NOCS Zero Tube is $50 more than their award-winning Field Tube. But overall, it’s still a good price compared to what comes from other manufacturers. However, I think that might still be a point for some people. That said, if you’re shopping for your first monocular, go with the Zero Tube. Its size makes it less of a burden and a necessity.
Whether you’re just breaking glass or have been doing it for a while, the Zero Tube will tick more boxes than you’d expect from a monocular – or binocular. Its small size and pocket clip make it easy to carry and access. Its field of view and clarity are impressive, even in low light conditions, and the ability to adjust focus on the other hand is a chef’s kiss.
