Alright, so, this is where I show my true colors of novice. However, I want to know for fun: what specifically costs more about high end coatings? Are they made with powdered hen's teeth, blood of unicorns, and platinum/osmium alloys? Is the cost of the raw materials so high? Is the volatility/dangerous characteristics of the coatings such that you have to pay an arm and a leg? The difficulty of achieving the right chemical mixture? The application so very difficult? The research and development? I understand the armor, collimation, ergonomics, bak4, HD, XD, ED, tolerances, name recognition, and all the other raw materials for price consideration. I also understand the price differentials in factory location. However, I've heard people say that you pay for the coatings. So, do enlighten me, as to what exactly makes the coatings expensive; or if it's just that the companies have agreed not to release binoculars with X coating for below X dollars? Not trying to cause trouble, but being a geek, I have to know the reason for everything.