I'm looking to upgrade from a pair of Viking Vistron 8x32 and I can just about stretch my budget to £500. There seems to be an awful lot of choice at the top and bottom ends of the market, but less so around this price point.
My main interests are waders and waterfowl and I would like to move up to 10x42s to avoid lugging my scope around all the time. ED glass would be nice, but only if it doesn't mean compromises elsewhere.
I had a quick look through the RSPB HD 10x42s at Conwy last weekend and was quite impressed, but there seems to be mixed opinions on this forum. I also tried the Viking ED 10x42s but found the focus wheel to be oddly positioned (it felt too close to my face somehow, but I suppose you get used to that sort of thing). The Swarowski ELs were fantastic, but sadly way out of my budget.
Any advice would be gratefully received!
Hi Rob. I posted a similar question earlier in the year and was pointed in the direction of second hand "alpha" binos. Was really pleased I took AlexP's advice as the Leica 8x42 Trinovids I ended up buying are great. Some may find them a little heavy but I don't have an issue with this.
Nikon SE's and EII's also seem to be really popular on this post. Hopefully some others will be able to give you some expert advice.
Rich
My stock answer is Hawke Frontier ED 10 x 43. Simply outstanding views and value. Sherwoods are knocking them out for less than half your budget. If you don't believe they can compare with the alpha's even at this price then you are cheating yourself.