Hi
What is a good choice for a first pair of bino's for birdwatching under £100 lightweight as i cycle and walk, I want something compact. I like the look of the Pentax papilio's but I know very little about this kind of thing, and i get the impression they are more for looking at things close by ? I would like something that would allow my to see some distance away..
Thanks
Sounds as if you really need the "standard" birding binocular = 8x42.As to make and model, there are many at the £100 mark and it depends on what is actually available on IOW. Guessing that the range is a little limited.Problem is that 8x42 's come in a range of physical sizes, I have 2 sets of Bushnell 8x42's (H2O's and Natureview's). Same maker, same specification, different size.Best suggestion is to look round, is Southampton a possibility?, and see what there is.The internet is fine if you know what you want, however if looking then seeing, holding and using is better.
If you want compact (and I assume lightweight) try 8x30 or 8x32. Leupold Yosemite, Vortex Raptor and Celestron Natureview are worth a look from what I've read.
At £100 you'll get a better view for your money with porro prisms.