Binoculars for Birding: Hello Hogs, I want to upgrade the binoculars I use for birding. I currently have a Brunton model, 10 x 32. I'm not looking for more magnification. In fact, I...

globetrekker Loc: Bend, OR

Hello Hogs,

I want to upgrade the binoculars I use for birding. I currently have a Brunton model, 10 x 32. I'm not looking for more magnification. In fact, I wonder if I should go down to 8. B&H Buying Guide notes "Hunters, birders, and astronomers should keep the magnifications at 8x and below and boost the objectives up over 50mm to produce wide exit pupils... " I would like a larger objective lens diameter, for brighter and sharper viewing. Not wanting to spend more than around $350, so nothing high end. Can anyone recommend some models to consider that are good quality (for the price point), affordable, and with a larger lens diameter?

Thank you.

rwilson1942 Loc: Houston, TX

https://www.audubon.org/gear/binocular-guide

globetrekker Loc: Bend, OR

Great, will check that out. Thank you.

Ob1 Loc: Utah

Look seriously at Vortex Viper 10X 42. You won’t be disappointed.

globetrekker Loc: Bend, OR

Ob1 wrote:

Look seriously at Vortex Viper 10X 42. You won’t be disappointed.

Thank you. A bit pricey, but I could stretch a bit if I decide a pair like this is my best option.

Haydon

I'm using a pair of Nikon Monarchs that were very highly rated several years ago and were compared frequently with prices twice as much. What I found particularly appealing was their attention to eye glass wearers that many other manufacturers seem to overlook. I've used 10x before but found I can spot and steady much easier with 8x42.

BH Photo has a deal right now for 276 with a harness. I could never use a conventional neck strap again.

Here's the link if interested.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/910856-REG/nikon_7576_8x42_monarch_5.html

suntouched Loc: Sierra Vista AZ

I just bought some Hawke Endurance ED for birding. Under 200.00. Very bright and clear. Little heavier than lightweight but not by much. Well balanced. 8x42. Excellent consumer reviews- great review. Go them at Adorama or B&H or Amazon

globetrekker Loc: Bend, OR

Thanks for the tip, Haydon.

globetrekker Loc: Bend, OR

suntouched wrote:

I just bought some Hawke Endurance ED for birding. Under 200.00. Very bright and clear. Little heavier than lightweight but not by much. Well balanced. 8x42. Excellent consumer reviews- great review. Go them at Adorama or B&H or Amazon

Another great tip to investigate. Thank you.

globetrekker Loc: Bend, OR

Is it safe to assume that when comparing models with the same magnification and diameters specs, the more expensive model has better glass and will provide sharper, clearer views?

wingclui44 Loc: CT USA

globetrekker wrote:

Hello Hogs, br br I want to upgrade the binocular... (show quote)

I have a Nikon Field- master 12X50 for general viewing and bird watching, It costs a couple hundred $. not that heavy to carry. I also have a Pentax 20X60 that is for astronomical use. Generally, a 8X10 or 8X40 is very good for bird watch. There are so many for you to chose, check them out what ever stores closed to you, or online.

globetrekker Loc: Bend, OR

wingclui44 wrote:

I have a Nikon Field- master 12X50 for general viewing and bird watching, It costs a couple hundred $. not that heavy to carry. I also have a Pentax 20X60 that is for astronomical use. Generally, a 8X10 or 8X40 is very good for bird watch. There are so many for you to chose, check them out what ever stores closed to you, or online.

Thanks. Will check it out. Though it seems that 12 is too high for birding.

wingclui44 Loc: CT USA

globetrekker wrote:

Thanks. Will check it out. Though it seems that 12 is too high for birding.

It's good for single bird on really close-up watch, allows me to keep a distance from them and not disturbing them, especially watching tree top bald-eagle!

Curmudgeon Loc: SE Arizona

Have been birding for 60+ years bought one pair of 10x42 glasses during that period and was not at all satisfied. Since then I have used 8 power with the largest objective lenses I was willing to carry. Birding often requires you to look into dark, shadowy places to add that Winter Wren to your life list. Light gathering ability is much more important than magnification.

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

Athlon Midas ED 8x24 on sale for $245 from Amazon.
Top pick of Binoculars in Wirecutters 2018 Holiday Gift Guide (published in today’s NY Times)

https://wclink.co/link/6865/20068/4/36498?merchant=Amazon