Hi guys,
Looking for a little advice. Am currently considering these two binos as my first nice binocular purchase. I can currently get either of these for about the same price even though the SP is usually close to 2x as much. I plan on using it as a multi-use bino for travelling, hiking, going to games, birding, etc. I have done tons of research but am a little stuck on the final decision, mainly because the price on the SP is so good. I have had a chance to handle each one for a few minutes but haven't compared them side by side.
My initial feelings are that I like the feel and lower weight of the Ranger better. Since I am not an optics expert, I don't think I would really be able to tell the difference in the image quality for the time being though I felt both were definitely nicer than some other binos I have looked thru including the Monarch. The one thing that bugs me about the Pentax is with the generous eye relief (22mm), I can't just bring the binos straight up to my eye sockets and not get blackouts. I find I have to place it a certain way against the bridge of my brow in order to get the sweet spot.
So I am looking for opinions from people who preferably have both models though any advice is appreciated. I guess the main quesions are: Will I regret not getting what is supposedly better optics/lenses in the Pentax later, especially given the price? And is the blackout thing with the Pentax a deal breaker or is it something that will just take a little getting used to?
Thanks guys, I appreciate your help!!!
The blackout issue is something that only you can answer. I'd suggest you order both from Eagle Optics, make a decision and send the one you don't want back. They are pretty easy to deal with that way.
Hi Steve,
Yeah, I would consider that with Eagle Optics, it's just that the SP deal is from another company and I doubt it will still be around by the time I decide.
Have you personally been able to compare the optics on both these models? I know I've read a bunch of your posts on these (?) and other models but not sure about these head to head.
Thanks,
Aaron