The Prostaff 3i Rangefinder matches the quality standards that Nikon offers with its wide-range of optical products.
This Nikon rangefinder is not only known for its accuracy (i.e. up to 650 yards) but also for several other exquisite features.
So, let’s take a closer look at its specifications to see how well it performs.
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Nikon Prostaff 3i
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PROS
- Durable Design
- All-in-One Rangefinder
- Effective and Easy to Use
- Bright Multi-Coated Optics
CONS
- Not Steady
- No Option for Turning the Automatic Shutdown Off
- Not Always Accurate for Small Targets Over a Long Distance
Nikon Prostaff 3i Specs
Magnification Level: 6x
Effective Objective Diameter: 21 mm
Angular Field of View: 7.5°
Exit Pupil: 3.5 mm
Eye Relief: 18.3 mm
Measurement Range: 7.3-590 meters/8-650 yards
Compatibility: Bows and rifles
Dimensions (length/height/width) (mm): 112 x 70 x 36
Weight: 5.6 ounces approximately (without batteries)
Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated
Pros
The following are some pros of this kind of rangefinder:
All-in-One Rangefinder
The Prostaff 3i has three main features that every hunter looks for in a rangefinder. It provides the user with:
- Angle compensation through Incline/Decline technology
- Target priority to find your target instantly through Tru-Target technology
- Scan mode that further helps in tracing a moving target while double-checking the distance
It also features pocket-sized portability, multi-coated optics, long eye relief, and waterproof ruggedness. In a nutshell, the Prostaff 3i Rangefinder has all the features to help you up to your hunting game.
Effective and Easy to Use
This rangefinder comes with an ergonomic design and a high-profile display. It easily fits into a pocket or a sack or you can even attach it to a belt. It has a single button operation, so you can carry out functions like turning on the device and firing the laser more easily.
Moreover, you can measure the accurate distance of your subject in no time. This is because the technology used in this rangefinder ensures accurate measurements from 8 – 650 yards. Additionally, you also have the benefit of getting a single as well as a continuous measurement for up to approximately 8 seconds. So, the application is very easy to use and also effective at the same time.
Bright Multi-Coated Optics
The rangefinder can autofocus to infinity. Moreover, the optics are fully multi-coated. A combination of a 6x magnification level and a 21 mm objective lens gives you outstanding image quality. It also provides an accurate range, regardless of what time of the day it is.
You’ll get proper readings, providing you can see the LCD displaying it. So, if you intend to get a rangefinder to assist you while hunting in any type of light, go with the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder. It features bright multi-coated optics that provide you with high-resolution imagery.
Durable Design
The build of the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder is quite strong and durable. You can use it at any time of the day as it is rainproof and water-resistant. However, be careful not to drop it in any water like puddles, streams, or rivers as it is not waterproof.
Cons
However, it comes with some drawbacks, including:
Not Steady
You need the support of another object or surface to keep it steady while holding it. It can take several readings if you fail to keep it steady.
Make sure you make pre-arrangements and provide enough support to ensure accurate readings.
Not Always Accurate for Small Targets Over a Long Distance
Sometimes, if you want to target a small object over a long distance like, for example, 450 yards or beyond, the Prostaff 3i may focus on a tree or any other backdrop, but not the target. So, it is not the best rangefinder if you wish to target small objects over a long distance.
No Option for Turning the Automatic Shutdown Off
Shutting off automatically after 8 seconds is a good feature to conserve battery life. The same feature, however, can cause a headache when you have to turn the device on several times in a single shot. Unfortunately, you don’t have the option of turning this feature off.
Best Uses for the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder
Hunting
The presence of features like 6x magnification level, large ocular lens, the incline/decline technology for angle compensation, and the Tru-Target technology for setting the last target priority mode can make your next bow and rifle hunting excursion a grand success.
Target Shooting
The Prostaff 3i Rangefinder comes with a scan mode; an essential feature to have for any rangefinder. Using this, you can move from target to target, trace your subject even while it’s moving, and also double-check the distance while getting the continuous reading for up to eight seconds.
Golfing
Even though its design is best for shooting and hunting, it will also work for golfing. The scan feature works great for ranging pins and other golf course obstacles. You can add an extra element to your golfing game with the Prostaff 3i Rangefinder’s high level of accuracy and mind-blowing ranging capabilities.
What Makes the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder Stand Out From the Competition?
The Nikon Prostaff 3i has been termed the budget dual-purpose rangefinder as it is versatile enough to be used for both hunting and golfing. This unit has a 6x magnification level, is equipped to make angle compensated readings, and comes with both ‘first’ as well as ‘distant’ target priority modes.
Moreover, it has the flexibility of reporting the distance in both yards as well as meters for your convenience. With a simple button operation, you can get rapid and accurate distance readings in no time at all. Above all, it is so compact and light in weight that you can operate it with one hand and can fit it in your pocket easily.
Comparison Overview
Nikon Prostaff 3i vs 7i
|
Specifications |
Nikon Prostaff 3i |
Nikon Prostaff 7i |
|---|---|---|
|
About the Product |
It has Tru-Target priority settings as well as ID technology for true horizontal range capabilities |
It is a long-range, compact rangefinder with both angle compensation and target priority features |
|
Magnification |
6x |
6x |
|
Display |
Black – LCD |
Black – LCD |
|
Weight |
5.6 oz |
6.2 oz |
|
Maximum Range |
650 yards |
1300 yards |
|
Deer Range |
550 yards |
1000 yards |
|
Incline/Decline |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Waterproof |
No |
Yes |
|
Warranty |
2 years |
2 years |
Nikon Aculon vs Prostaff 3i
|
Specifications |
Prostaff Binoculars |
Nikon Aculon Binoculars |
|---|---|---|
|
Prism Type |
Roof |
Porro |
|
Magnification Level |
6x |
10x |
|
Objective Lens Diameter |
21 mm |
42 mm |
|
Angle of View |
7.5° (Actual) |
6° (Actual) |
|
Exit Pupil Diameter |
3.5 mm |
4.2 mm |
|
Features |
Lightweight, multi-coated lens, waterproof and durable |
The rubber armor offers shock-resistance. The lens, being multi-coated, gives minimal distortion of the image even on the borders |
|
Price |
Low to the mid-range price bracket |
Low |
|
Ideal For |
Bowhunting, rifle hunting, target shooting, and golfing |
All day-to-day activities like getting a closer look at an animal or bird, enjoying clearer landscape views, or getting a closer view of the pitch during a sports match |
How to Use the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder
Getting readings through Nikon Prostaff 3i isn’t difficult. All you need to do is follow these steps:
1. Preparing
Install a battery in the battery chamber. For this, you need to open the battery chamber cover by rotating it counterclockwise. Next, follow the indication seal to insert the battery in the exact position. Last, close the battery chamber cover by rotating its cover clockwise. Be sure you have closed the cover properly.
2. Adjusting the Diopter
Obtain a clear LCD indication in the viewfinder by adjusting the diopter properly. For this, begin rotating the diopter adjustment ring counterclockwise. Continue doing this until it comes to a complete stop. Now, press the POWER ON button and start rotating the diopter adjustment clockwise until you see the internal display. Remember, the diopter should match your eyesight. You won’t be able to target your subject if it is not adjusted properly.
3. Measuring
Before you begin to measure the distance, confirm each mode setting, including the measurement display mode, target priority mode, and distance display unit. Once confirmed, go ahead with turning on the power while confirming that you can see the internal display. Now, try aiming in such a way that the subject should align with the center of the reticle.
The Prostaff 3i gives you two options here. For a single measurement, press the POWER ON button and get the single measurement. For continuous measurement, press and hold the POWER ON button to start continuous measurement for approximately 8 seconds. This measurement will stop as soon as you take your finger off the button.
The power will turn off automatically after 8 seconds. If you press the POWER ON button again, it will start taking another measurement.
Conclusion
Go with Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder if you want a pocket-friendly device that is highly capable of ranging targets not too far away. The useful features and easy operation make it a versatile option for fantastic viewing for rifle hunting, bow hunting, and target shooting.
It is mainly used for hunting as it does not come with features like flag-lock, vibration on target-lock, etc. but, other features like angle compensation, a long-range, and accurate readings make it a great choice for the occasional golfers all around the world.
People Also Ask
Can’t find the answer you’ve been searching for? Don’t worry. These are some of the more frequently asked questions that arise in the minds of customers while they are reviewing the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder:
What Kind of Warranty Does the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder Come With?
The Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder is backed by a 2-Year Limited Warranty that protects against defects in material as well as workmanship.
How Much Does the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder Weigh?
The Prostaff 3i unit weighs approximately 5.6 ounces or 160 grams, approximately without the batteries. It is compact and lightweight and can fit into a pocket or a sack. You can even consider attaching it to a belt without making it cumbersome or too heavy to carry with you.
Can You Use Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder in Low Light?
Yes, it features bright multi-coated optics that will allow you to get high-resolution imagery. Also, as the LCD is very clear, you can get accurate readings even in low light conditions.
How Long Does the Battery Last on the Nikon Prostaff 3i Rangefinder?
The battery life with the continuous operation is around 10,000 times approximately around 20°C. However, this figure may vary according to temperature and other aspects like target color, shape, etc.