Hi all
Would appreciate your thoughts on a little dilemma I'm having trouble resolving.
I'm looking for a pair of bins mainly to bird and nature watch, but also for hiking and bush walking through various terrain (so weight is important). I have pretty much settled (I think) on either the Nikon Monarchs 10x42 or the Vortex Viper 10x42.
I've read some very good reviews on this forum on the Monarchs which seem to be very popular, but it seems that it can be a bit hit and miss in terms of getting a quality pair. This is a concern for me given I have to order online because I can't find a store that stocks them anywhere near me.
I've also read some very positive reviews on the Vortex Viper (especially this one http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=68081) and these seem to be a lot more reliable in terms of getting a decent pair straight out of the box.
Any recommendations on the Monarch v Viper head to head or any other general advice would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers
MSG Reaver
Having had both Vipers and Monarchs, I have to say that Viper is a lot better binocular. It has a better image, better depth of field, better resolution and better color. When I first got a Monarch, I liked it quite well, but as time went on, its flaws revealed themselves. A Viper was one of the solutions.
Look over the Hawke Frontier ED threads here too. That's even a better glass for about the same money.
I have owned the Vipers and looked through the Monarchs and I'd go for the Vipers any day of the week.
V.