Binoculars

[Joe]

Any suggestions on the best binoculars under $200?

Thanks,
Joe

[Tommy]

I just order a Vortex Spitfire 10x32 for under $200 including shipping and tax. http://eagleopticscanada.stores.yahoo.net/vorbin2.html
Strokes Talon is also good.

It all depends what features you need like weight, size and close focus etc. and if you wear glasses. Take a look at the Eagle Optics webpage for more choice: http://eagleopticscanada.stores.yahoo.n ... lars1.html

[Brian Bailey]

I strongly suggest visiting a store that stocks a variety of good binoculars that you can try side by side.  If you are making the trek to Point Pelee, Pelee Wings is hard to beat in that regard, and their prices are very competitive too.  I'm not sure if there's anything comparable in Toronto.  Maybe Eftonscience?

I bought a pair of 8x40 Nikon Action EX 3 years ago and have been very satisfied with them.  I think I paid $199 then, but they're less now.  I was prepared to spend much more, but I couldn't find anything under $1000 that I liked better.  I know you really need roof prisms to be considered a serious birder, but I just don't find most of them comfortable to hold.

It's virtually impossible to compare two binoculars without comparing side by side unless one is clearly inferior.  I also would caution against buying something based on reviews without actually trying them.  I have been surprised at how much I didn't like some binoculars that got great reviews.  It's a very personal choice.

Also, either my Nikons are a really well kept secret, or I'm totally out to lunch, because I don't see many other birders using them.  I guess advice is worth what you pay for it!  :wink:

BB

[Michael Tam]

I just researched for a pair of binoculars with the criterion of 8x32, around 20 oz, field of view >390 ft, lock to lock around 1 to 1.5 turn, eye relief>15mm, price around $200.  The list included Vortex spitfire, Celestron outlander Lx, Bushnell excursion.  After talking with Tom at Pelee Wings, he recommended the Bushnell excursion EX 8x36 just released for $179. It has field of view of 426 ft.  The optics is almost comparable to the old reliable Bushnell custom 7 which incidentally Pelee Wings still has some in stock.  Being used to Zeiss, Leica and Swaroski full size binoculars, this seemed to be good value with a reasonable optics with exit pupil greater than that of 10x40, phase corrected roof prism coating, fully weather proof, open bridge design similar to that of Swaroski EL series.  Please see link below:

http://www.bushnell.com/general/binocul ... eral%20Use

Hope you find this helpful.

[Joe]

Thanks all.

Joe