I'm looking at the Nikon Monarch 10x42, the ZEN-RAY ED 8x43 the Leupold Cascades 10x42.
I could also go up to a slightly higher priced binoc, such as the Leupold Mohave 10x50 or the Olympic 10x50.
Would the larger aperture make much difference?
is the difference worth $100?
Also, does anyone know if the Monarchs, Zen-rays, or the Leupolds have Bak4 prisms?
Any suggestions, reviews, thoughts, musings, or even rants appreciated!
Thanks guys.
PS: I own a 10x42 wild bird center branded binoc and a swift 8x42. dunno the model of either buts they're at least 5 years old. How much better are new binocs these days?
Good choices: at $300 you probably can't beat the Nikon, and at $400 you can't beat the Zen. If weight is an issue, maybe the Nikon is tops. If not, the Zen is a keeper. I have the 8x43 ED2 and love it. A big, wide, easy view that's razor sharp.
Right now, you can get the Vortex Viper 8x42 for $450. I haven't seen it but it's as light as the Nikon, but with ED glass like the Zen. Tempting.
For me, anything bigger than 42/43 is out--too much to lug around. All the bins you'd be considering would have BaK4 so I wouldn't worry about that.
Hope this helps.
Havent tried them myself,But i have heard plenty of good reviews for the Bushnell Legend HD series .A Roof binocular that uses ED glass and is under 300$.