First Look: Nikon Monarch 7i VR Laser Rangefinder

by
posted on December 12, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
fl_new_nikon_rf_f.jpg

Nikon Sport Optics' newest offering is the Monarch 7i VR Laser Rangefinder. Nikon says it is the first ranging optic to compensate for the human body's physical inability to be completely still. This is accomplished through Nikon’s new VR (Vibration Reduction) Technology. Here are five things you need to know.

1. Meet Vibration Reduction Technology.
With a rangefinder to the hunter’s eye, even the slightest hand shake or tremble can cause that animal you are ranging to bounce like crazy, especially at longer distances. That movement makes it near impossible to acquire an accurate reading. But the VR Technology compensates for these vibrations so the object remains steady, even out to 1,000 yards, for more accurate readings.

2. The 7i VR features a 6-power viewfinder.
The viewfinder simultaneously aligns the viewed image with the irradiated beam for a faster, more precise ranging compared to other rangefinders.

3. The VR function activates automatically.
The VR Function begins immediately when the laser rangefinder is turned on, so no time’s wasted toggling between settings. Holding down the ranging button allows the user to continuously scan for 8 seconds. A fast measurement is received (in approximately half a second), regardless of the distance, thanks to Nikon's Hyper Read technology.

4. Two ranging modes are available.
“Tru-Target Technology” lets you choose between two different ranging modes depending on the situation. First target priority mode allows you to range an object as small as a fence post, while distant target priority mode displays the range of the farthest target among a group of targets measured.

5. It's high-quality.
The Monarch 7i VR can range from 8 yards all the way out to 1,000 yards, and displays in 0.1-yard increments. Nikon rates the unit as a ½-yard accurate out to 700 yards, and 1-yard at 700 yards plus. It has a wide, 7.5 degree field of view, and a large 18mm ocular opening. Waterproof and fogproof, the battery chamber is rainproof, too. Runs on one CR-2 lithium battery (included).

Latest

Praxis Frame Pack LEDE
Praxis Frame Pack LEDE

New for 2026: Latitude Outdoors Whitetail Frame Packs

Mobile whitetail hunters have long faced a familiar compromise: carry a lightweight pack for the hunt, or haul a frame pack for the pack out. Latitude Outdoors has released a pack to solve that problem, with a frame system built from the ground up for the mobile whitetail hunter.

The Problem with Pressures: A +Peak Revolution?

The history of the projectile, and of the centerfire cartridge, is fascinating, and it seems as though we are ready to take the next step forward. Or are we? Let's take a look at how pressures have affected cartridges throughout history, and the evolution that seems to be currently starting.

More than $1.3 Billion Raised by Duck Stamp Sales

On June 26 the 2026-2027 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, aka Duck Stamp, went on sale. The fact it raises about $40 million for conservation annually gets the headlines, but there are underpublicized benefits for making the $25 purchase—even non-hunters.

Hardware Review: Henry H23 SPD PREDATOR

Check out Frank Melloni's review of the Henry H23 SPD PREDATOR.

First Look: Hawke Optics Vantage HD 30 SF

Hawke Optics has introduced its Vantage HD 30 SF, a second-focal plane riflescope line boasting System H2 optics for clarity.

Pyrodex Turns 50

Pryodex, the revolutionary black powder substitute that continues to be one of Hodgdon Powder Company’s most popular products for hunters who head afield with a “smoke pole,” was first introduced at the 1976 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.