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

Lead Photo 17 Mach 2
Lead Photo 17 Mach 2

Behind the Bullet: .17 Mach 2

Ever heard of the .17 Mach 2? Go behind the scenes on this hot little rimfire round with resident ammo guru Phil Massaro.

Tuo Curates Specialized Turkey Hunting Collection

For the 2026 spring season, Tuo has architected a technical system specifically curated to meet the demands of turkey hunters. While engineered for maximum versatility, the Tuo ecosystem has developed a particular following in regions where the early season isn't defined by green leaves and lilac blooms, but by the high-contrast skeletal timber and grey-scale of the early spring woods.

New for 2026: Savage Model 110 Rimfire

Savage Arms has expanded its Model 110 family of rifles into the rimfire world. Long loved by generations of hunters, the classic Model 110 will now include a number of full size, .22 Long Rifle offerings, making up the new Model 110 RF line.

Snow Goose Science: Hunting Tips from the Pros

Want to drop more snow geese during conservation season? Check out these tips, straight from the pro guides at Central Missouri Wildlife.

New for 2026: Apex Ammunition 28-Gauge SmallTown Hunting TSS Turkey Blend

Apex Ammunition is now offering a 28-gauge load in its SmallTown Hunting Blend line of turkey ammunition.

Arizona’s Free Annual Outdoor Expo returns March 28-29

Sportsmen ready to explore wildlife and wild places in the Arizona should mark their calendars for March 28 and 29, when the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) Outdoor Expo returns to the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in north Phoenix, Ariz.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.