I am considering a slightly more expensive binocular than in my intial $300 budget to get into something with an aspheric lens. I am considering two models: Minox BD 8.5x42 BR ASPH or Celestron Regal LX 8x42. I can get a good price on both, but the Celestron is $100+ less than the Minox, and closer to my original budget amount. I was going to buy a Nikon Monarch 8x42 but is it worth spending more money ($100-200 more) to get the aspheric lens? Does anyone have either of these binoculars and can tell me what you think of the quality? The Regal and Minox are both 4 oz heavier than the Nikon as well, so that may make a difference in my wanting to carry them around all day. I also wear glasses, so eye relief is important. My other option is to get the lighter Minox 8x32 BR ASPH - less money, less weight, but shorter eye relief.
In the $315-360 range I can get the Minox 8x32 BR ASPH or the Celestron Regal LX 8x42. Does anyone like either of these and wear glasses?
Just as a warning, you are getting into the 25 oz weight here with Regals
http://www.opticsplanet.net/celestr...-binocular.html
http://www.opticsplanet.net/celestr...-binocular.html
I would be OK with it, but the Monarchs, with probably cheaper body, are 22 oz. I thought you wanted even less weight.
Here is a 22 oz Minox
http://www.opticsplanet.net/minox-b...binoculars.html
looks like a fine piece, have never seen it. But Atomic Chicken, Bawko, said:
quote:
Of all my binoculars, the pair that has surprised me the most in terms of ruggedness is my Minox 8x32 that I keep in my day pack - I just can't seem to kill them no matter how careless I get! I wouldn't have suspected it... they seem to be built rather average, but they have taken quite a bit of abuse so far, with no signs of wear.