Currently, I have a Nikon 8x32 SE which is astonishing. I feel however that I can not hold the binoculars steady enough to avoid vibrations. Some days are worse than others in terms of shaking, I must say. The focus wheel also become rather stiff when itīs cold. Therefore, I thought of buying a new pair of binoculars that provide a more stable picture.
What I seek is:
- A 7x? or 8x42 with top optics (sharp to the edges, neutral, min. of CA etc)
- Roof prism
- Generous eye relief because I wear glasses
- Fast focus (or at least not a focus which is slow)
- Generous FOV would be nice
Some models I have listed:
Pentax: 8x43 DCF ED
Zeiss: 7x42 T FL, 8x42 T FL
Leica: Ultravid 7x42 BR, Ultravid 8x42 BR
Swarovski: SLCnew 7x42B
Kamakura: 8x42 MR3
Nikon: 8x42HG L DCF, 7x42 EDG, 8x42 EDG
My own thoughts: The Zeiss models is actually a bit over my budget (Swedish prices). But maybe itīs worth stretching the budget a bit. I am very interested in the new Nikon EDG models, but these cost more than the Zeiss. Moreover, they are not yet available on the market here in Sweden. Kamakura and Pentax is cheaper, but how are they against eg Nikon and Zeiss? Are there clear differences optically?
An interesting model is the Swarovski 7x42 B. Does just within my budget and have 7x power. The question is how it is compared with Swarovski EL models?
Last but not least, Nikon 8x42HG L. I like my 8x32 SE and the HG L is perhaps that binocular which is most similar to the SE in terms of optical properties? I also know it has a fast and nice focus.
Which binoculars should I put my energy on?
Regards, Jonas
As a glasses wearer i would recommend trying out Zeiss models before you buy as i found that i had a lot of light entering from the sides of the eye pieces in good light which was of puting but optically excellent and would have bought some if had not tried in diferent light condtions