Hi, having solved the problem of my main binocular, I am again on the market for another binocular (or possibily monocular) which will fill the need of a backup binocular to bring around when I am not supposed to bird (this covers from when I am downtown shopping with my wife to when I am at work to when I am jogging). So the requirements are that the binocular be pocketable and very light.
While when I was shopping for a main binocular I had pretty much in mind that I wanted a Porro 10x50 (and I ended up buying the Nikon Action EX, which I am absolutely happy so far and which extended my birding capabilities), this time I am completely uncertain. I looked at some websites, and concluded I quite like the Leica Trinovid 10x25 BCA. On the other hand it might be over my budget which this time is going to be around 300/400 Euros (but I might be able to do it). I am also thinking a monocular may be enough, and especially guarantee the carriability which is a must of course.
My questions are:
- is the price of the Leica completely justified or I would be paying for the brand? I know this is a wonderful binocular, but what I mean is: will I be able to get a binocular which approximates the quality level for much less money?
- If yes, which are the best alternatives?
- what about the Pentax Papilio - 8.5 x 21 or any reverse Porro?
Again, thank you in advance for the replies!
Best regards,
Gian Andrea
I have a Leica Trinovid 8x20 BC. Although it's right on the edge for eye relief as an eyeglass wearer, I cannot get myself to part with them because they are so darn clear and sharp (and small). I use them turkey hunting as I need to minimize weight as well as for early season bowhunting.
I have a Zeiss Victory 8x42 T*FL that's outstanding but I'll sit on my deck and compare the two looking at license plates on vehicles up the street. These little Leicas are just as sharp as the Zeiss. I had a Swarovski 8x20 but I like the Leica better.
The only reason I'd part with them would be to get an 8x20 Ultravid since the eye relief is supposedly a bit more, but I can still live with the Trinovid.
Gian,
If you think you are happy with with a 2.5mm exit pupil and can find the money then go with an alpha. Which you choose is definitely down to personal preference. I found an 8x20 easier to use than a 10x25, and on a fairly short test preferred the ergonomics of the Zeiss. Plenty would disagree. Personally I wanted more exit pupil and found the reverse poros the best compromise. But be careful, they are less pocketable than they look, and many are non waterproof.
If you want to look at bugs as well as birds then I'm sure the Papilo would be the first choice. The Nikon Travelite EX, Opticron Taiga, Olympus tracker PCI and I'm sure others all are good options. Personally I thought the Bushnell 7x26 (Custom) Elite was worth the extra money. Although the center resolution might be pretty close to an alpha in most other respects it is very different. I prefer it. Perhaps I'm weird! Whatever you shortlist, try to test them as you are likely to use them. It does make a difference.
David