hunting binocular?

[Baylian]

I am hunting in Utah where I can be in timber or cedars with 50 to 100 yard views or looking down from hills or looking across canyons with unlimited views. I need a good binocular. One that would be pleasant to carry all day. Please give me manufactuter and power suggestions. We better set 2 price points, under $250 and under $500.

Thanks in advance, TJ

[270man]

Baylian,

Ask any 2 people and you will probably get 3 different opinions. Here are some of mine. I spent a lot of time evaluating brands and types of binoculars before opening my wallet and buying. In your price range, here's what I believe to be good ones:

Bushnell Legend; Nikon Monarch ATB; Pentax DCF-WP (WP stands for waterproof) -- all in 10X with 42mm objective lenses. Some feel that 10X is too much power and prefer 8X. I own the Pentax 10X-42mm and have no problem holding it steady. My preference is for an exit pupil of at least 4mm (objective diameter divided by power). These 3 binoculars weigh in around 25-30 ounces and don't bother me while carrying them around my neck all day (but get a good, wide, padded strap). You can save a few ounces with one of the 8x-30mm or 32mm binoculars. The 3 brands/types I've mentioned above all seem to have approximately equivalent optical quality. Ruggedness is an essential feature but it's hard to judge until you've actually owned and used a particular glass (or at least known someone else who has experience with the binocular). So far, my Pentax has held up well. FYI: Out here in Arizona, all 3 binoculars I mentioned run around $300.

Good luck with your selection,

270man

[poly]

In my opinion the best binos for what you want are the 8x32 Nikon SE. Very wide field of view, great depth of field and crystal clear optics. I also have the 10X42 SE's, and I prefer the 8's in almost every situation. The premier birding reviews are done by Betterviewdesired.com and they rate the 8x32's above the Swaro's for overall birding. You can also find Zeiss conquest 8x30s for about $350 in some places. They are very good too, but not as good. The SE's will be closer to $600.

[Catfish]

Give the Wind Rivers a look. They are the best I could find for the money.