Hello all.
Although this is my first posting, I have been lurking around here for quite sometime and I find a lot of good advice here; no less.
I have been a long time avid birdwatcher, both wild and man-made, but my binoculars were quite rudimentary and fundamental. So I have decided the time is right for a serious upgrade. (Not sure why right now, but does it matter…?)
Per many sources I have seen, including here, the “optimum” parameters for birdwatching are 8x42 binoculars, which combine the best performance for FOV, exit pupil (5mm), magnification and stability. I started my search in that direction and acquired quite some good data for models and pricing. While doing my search I also saw some praise for 8x32 binoculars as a decent alternative for the 8x42. I have decided to alter course and pursue the 8x32 option instead as they are lighter (usually), more compact and a little cheaper. The 4mm EP will be enough for my needs as most of my usage will be done during the day. What I am looking for particularly is the widest possible FOV, best CF and most of all, minimal or virtually no Chromatic Aberration.
So, doing my search in the 8x32 direction, I came up again with quite a list which I narrowed down to the following:
Zeiss Victory (@~$1200)
Leupold Golden Ring (@~$840)
Leica Trinovid BN (@~$1150, or $900 pre-owned)
Minox HG BR (@~$650)
Minox BD BR ALT (@~$370)
Finding a place that carries all this stuff for hands-on comparison is very tough, if not impossible. Most sporting stores will carry low-end stuff mostly (stuff that has a better chance to sell…). My best shot was at a Cabela’s store, where I could compare the Leica, a Swarovski EL, Kahles 8x32 and my own old junk. Unfortunately, they did not have the Zeiss 8x32, Leupold Golden Ring and no Minox bins to look at. I didn’t like the Kahles construction and control; too stiff. I was very impressed with the Leica and the Swarovski (of course!!!).
Before I buy any I would like to have a hands-on test of the rest of the bins listed here. Or at least some more input from you folks, especially on the Minox HG 8x32 and BD 8x32 BR ALT bins….
Thanks, Salmo.
Hi Salmo I see this is your first post, so may I welcome you on behalf of the Staff and Moderators at Bird Forum
I'm sure there'll be someone along soon to advise you
D
Hi Salmo and a warm welcome to you