Denise,
binoculars can be quite a personal choice and it is normally best if you
can try a few pairs before deciding, then there's the question of
budget, from $200 to the sky's the limit and while the returns diminish
somewhat as the price goes up, the top line binoculars are really a joy
to use. I use Leica 10 x 42s and I expect they'll outlast me.
First there's magnification and size, 8x is quite popular and 10x is the
limit for steady hand holding for most people. If you have steady hands
go with 10x, 8x will be a little brighter and a wider field making it
easier to find the subject. for size, 42mm is a good choice and if you
want something smaller/lighter more compact then 30-32 mm is about as
small as I would suggest, so that's 8x32, 10x32, 8x42 or 10x42.
Regarding brands, the Nikon monarchs are good value and quite light,
next step up would be something like Kowa or Pentax. For top of the
line Leica or Swarovski. Prices range from $500 or so for the Monarchs
to $900-$1000 for the Kowa to $2300-$2700 for the Leica/Swarovskis,
there's a Swarrovski SLC 8x32 that's' a relative bargain among European
binoculars at about $1400. If they are too much Gerbers in this size
range go for about $400. These are all roof prism style that have
straight barrels, which are more compact but harder to make with high
optical quality. Many of the binos listed above will be waterproof and
nitrogen filled, and relatively rugged. Those are approximate prices at
Bintel where they have many of the binos in stock to try. You will
likely find them cheaper on line, but without trying them you may find
the ones you buy don't really suit you.
Chris Ross
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