I know this is a ridiculous title, and doesn't necessarily match the following, but:
ONLY considering the following three criteria, what's the best view?
1. Sweet spot/FOV size (overall field -not just % of view).
2. Ease of view: i.e. no blackouts, easy eye placement, shake friendly, etc.
3. Stray light control.
For the sake of this survey, I'm assuming good resolution and throwing out weatherproofness, weight, handling, eye relief,etc. From all I've read (mostly here), and from personal experience, the glasses to consider for the best combination of these three criteria might include: Nikon EII 8x30, Swaro 8.5x42 EL, Swaro SLC 7x42 (New).
What others should be included on short list?
Thanks, APS
I have not handled high end 8x32s, but I think the 8x32 Meopta would be in the running.
Nikon EII 8x30? Not the Nikon SE 8x32? Perhaps that might loose on blackouts (it seems to be a person by person difference).
I've been watching warblers recently (with 7x and 8x bins) and I think I can see why some use 10x even though I've prefered low magnification. As I've seen Townsend Warblers on my local trip to the park the past few days perhaps tomorrow I'll try my 10x each with 6.5 degree FOV (EO Raptor 10x42 porro and Bushnell Excursion 10x42 roof). So perhaps a 10x versions of those mentioned might be on the list.
I'm curious though. Why the edge to edge field requirement? I ID warblers by putting them in the center of the field. But the big FOV is good to follow the flitting so you can get the glimpse of the patterns to do the ID. Are you planning to follow them around the field with your eye?