The world of binoculars seems like a minefield to me ! I want to buy my wife a new pair of binoculars for birding - but I do not know where to start. What sohuld I look for ? Can anyone recommend a pair for approx £100 - £150 ?
[QUOTE=Niel Daniels;1306899]The world of binoculars seems like a minefield to me ! I want to buy my wife a new pair of binoculars for birding - but I do not know where to start. What sohuld I look for ? Can anyone recommend a pair for approx £100 - £150 ?[/QUOTE]
Hi Niel. Welcome to Birdforum. It is a bit confusing isn't it. Most birders in the UK seem to prefer binoculars with 8x magnification. The choice is then between 8x42(ish) and 8x32(ish). The larger numbers refer to the size of the large objective lens size. The smaller sizes are normally considerably lighter and smaller to carry but possibly are not quite so bright to view through in poor light. It is personal preference. I presently have a pair of 8x32 and 8.5x44 and there isn't much to choose between them.
I would go for one of the better known brands such as Opticron or Nikon as they are likely to have better after sales service. Opticron in particular have a very good reputation in this respect. My partner has a pair of Opticron 8x42 Discovery binoculars and is extremely pleased with them. They are a bit smaller than most 8x42s and are currently available from some places at around £95.
Another possibility is the Viking range, which is sold by the RSPB. They seem to sell no end of their Vistron models and I always seem to see people walking away with new Viking boxes when I visit Minsmere.
One other point. I don't know if your wife wears glasses but if she does it is important to choose a pair with long eye relief. This refers to the distance the eye is placed from the eyepiece lens in order to see the whole image. For use with glasses you ideally need about 20mm eye relief.
I am sure other people can make further suggestions.
Ron
Bushnell Excursion 8x42, Vortex Diamondback 8x42. I f you want a lighter pair, Bushnell Excursion 8x32.