Cameras and Lenses
What to buy
All I have absolutely no idea when it comes to binoculars, but I do have the chance of getting a pr of RSPB/Viking bins at cost price.
Not knowing whats available do any of the forum members have a view on the RSPB / Viking range?
What magnification are most suitable for general use 8x or 10x
Are there any other brands that I should consider at that price range? Liked the look of the Swift Audubons 8.5x44HSS and seen some good write ups.
Don't wish to spend a fortune as I'd rather buy photographic gear but my trusty Pentax compacts are not adequate 12x25's and the cheap pr of Bushnells I picked up in Walmart in the US have proven to be a bit of a mistake (these are 10x40s and never seem to focus properly)
Must be waterproof and very tough
Look forward to the comments
A binocular novice
Hi Steve
the best bet would be to get along to either Titchwell or Minsmere and try out some of the bins for yourself, whatever anyone can tell you about them it's no substitute for personal testing. My wife uses a pair of RSPB 8x32 BG.PC, they are lightweight, fast focusing and deliver a good image.
Without knowing your budget it's hard to suggest others to look at... but a couple of ~£200 suggestions would be the Minox 8x32 BLs and the Nikon Monarch 8x36. I think you'd do best to look ath 8x32s as this will keep the weight down which is ideal when you're lugging all that camera gear around!
I use the RSPB 8x32 BG.PC ,which is an excellent binocular. I compared them directly with the Leica Ultravid 8x32 and Swarovski 8x32 EL (both at least £600 more expensive) before I bought them. Although the Swarovski was better, it was not a huge difference (certainly not £600-worth of a difference!). I could hardly see any difference between the Leica and the RSPB.