Hi!
Before I start here, I must admit that I have a fairly limited knowledge of technical specificifications of binoculars, and so if I end up asking to explain every other thing people say, I apologise in advance.
Basically, I need to replace my binoculars (10x42 Bushnell Trophy)- when I unpacked them after I'd taken them on holiday the focusing mechanism had broken in some way which meant that trying to focus did nothing, and the ends of the lenses are loose. I have asked around a little, and it sounds like repair would cost practically the same as replacing them anyway, and apparently the design of these ones make it a bit more prone to damage than some.
What I'd basically like to do is find some replacements, this'll be a christmas present of sorts (although I may have to contribute a little) and the budget is probably around £80 at most. While I appreciate that isn't a lot to work with, unfortunatly I cant really afford more...
Anyway, I'd like to have something of similar spec to my current one (10x42), be as durable as is feasible for the price, and probably water resistant/sealed is a good idea?
Any advice or suggestions anyone could give would be massively appreciated! Any particular brands/models I should be looking out for or avoiding? Thanks for your time!
If you have no problems continuing with a Bushnell then the Natureview model is something that impressed me lately. It was the 8x42 though. In the US their price is usually $99 so I must assume they would fall into your price range.
Another to consider would be the Swift Reliant. Again I have only tried the 8x42 model but it impressed me optically at the $100 price point.
Hope this helps.
Not a bad thing your Bushnell Trophys died - I had a pair in 8x32 format for a while and I hated them so much I gave them away!
Have a look at Vortex binos in that range. If you check the thread about Cameraland (based in NY), there are some superb deals to be had at the moment on, for example, Vortex Fury.
Otherwise, try Nikon Action Ex 8x30 or 8x42 locally.
But if anyone offers you any more Bushnell Trophys, tell them you have pressing business and must be off!