I am getting back into birdwatching after not doing much for many years. I am looking for a pair of binoculars that are small and lightweight, have good eye relief (I wear glasses), and don't cost much (under $200, preferably), but still work well. I have been reading up on the subject, but there seem to be so many options that I am having trouble narrowing it down. There aren't any places close by that carry much of a selection, so I will probably order online. Any recommendations?
Thanks for the help!
I know how you feel. There will be some overwhelming choices. However, if you follow the binocular forums here, there are decidedly finite options and you will do fine with your budget.
Others will weigh in with specific model recommendations which is great. However, I'd also encourage you to go to a local sporting goods store where there will be a significant selection if you have one near. Cabela's and Bass Pro are my favorites. The reason I say this is that it's important to try several out to get an idea. It takes quite a bit of experience to determine preferences, etc, but why not try out a bunch of options. Sometimes they can have insane closeouts as well but that would be a long shot.
OR means rain, rain, rain. So I'd prefer something that was bright in dim light and waterproof. The ultimate in waterproof is roof prism. There is another type which is called porro prism (the "old fashioned" type that have the traditional look). Then there are compact options like reverse porro and compact roof prisms. All things being equal, an 8x42 roof prism would be a great option.
1. Porro - check out the Nikon Action EX (avoid the non-EX like the plague).
2. Roof - if can increase budg a bit or shop around, check out Bushnell Legend HD 8x42 . There are quite a few others as well.
3. Compact - the Bausch and Lomb or Bushnell 7x26 Elites get good reviews but I don't know waterproofness off hand.
Best of luck.
Matt
Look at the Leupold 6 x 30 and 8 x 30 Yosemites which are inexpensive but excellent, small, lightweight and waterproof porro prisms.
http://www.eagleoptics.com/binocula...nocular-natural
And the Leupold 6 x 30 Katmai which is a Roof Prism.
http://www.eagleoptics.com/binocula...binocular-black
All three have nice wide fields of view and are easy to use.
Leupold is an Oregon based company.
Bob