Binoculars

[SlackAlice]

I am looking around to buy a pair of binoculars. They would have to be compact for travel purposes and general use. I am looking at either 10 x 42 or 12 x 42. Does anyone have any recommendations or advice, to help me make a decision?

Thanks, for any replies

[jomifl]

10x 42 would give a steadier view and better contrast with less distortion, all other things being equal. 8x is the accepted max for hand held use. Just as important is to have a wide field of view as makes them easier to use.

[bookbinder]

I have a pair of Tasco binoculars, 8 x 30, which my wife and I use on our fellwalking expeditions. They measure 4.75 inches long x 6 inches wide, field of view at 1,000 yards is 392 feet. Weight? No idea, but very light. We find them very handy for spotting stiles, etc. at the far side of fields, and faint footpaths stretching away over the hill. Very robust.

[fourteen85]

I use a pair of leicas for birdwatching which are expensive, all I will say is whatever you do decide on, try them first, rather than getting a pair on someone elses recommendation

[AlBags]

Lot of difference in quality of the lenses.
Father's Nikon 8-24x25 are great .. have zoom .. but are small.
Go in pocket.

[vivandorron]

Hi SL......It can be a bit of a minefield when trying to select a pair of binoculars and, as indicated by fourteen85, it is most important to test them before purchasing. Furthermore it depends upon the use for which you intend them.

I agree with what jomifl has said about binoculars in the region of 8x (magnification) being the maximum for hand held use. Anything higher will give a shaky image; unless mounted on a tripod. Mine are primarily used for birdwatching and are Swift 'Audubon' 8.5x,44. However I have had them for about 30years and would hate to have to pay today's prices for a new pair.

If you are thinking of buying on the Internet, I suggest you first handle as many different makes and models in a local store and then you will know the ones for which to possibly opt. Also search out as much detail on the Internet, about the lenses, body construction, weight etc. The following could be a starting point:-

http://www.camera-sho...og/binoculars_uk.html

Ron.

[vivandorron]

My apologies SlackAlice for having abreviated your name to SL. I have made the same error in the bird thread to which you have posted. I intended it to be SA. Sorry.

Ron.

[seadogg]

Buy the most expensive makes at the keenest prices. Avoid 12 times as the magnification is wasted. I use a pair of Leica 8 by 20 for walking and Optolyth Alpin 10 by 40 for birdwatching.
The advantage of a rubber armoured high quality glass is that when you eventually drop it there is a better chance of it surviving without expensive repair and collimation. RSPB "Birds" magazine can be useful in comparing glasses but nothing beats seeing them for yourself. If there is a bird reserve nearby the watchers will often let you have a go with their glasses.

[NazNomad]

<sprinkles seed on Ron and pegs him in the garden for ''torture by Starlings'' in the morning>

:-))

[vivandorron]

I guess Naz that being given the birds is what I deserve for all the mistakes I keep making.:-)

Ron☺☺☺

[SlackAlice]

Thank you everyone for your answers. I have already tried out a couple but more to see and handle in the shops first, before I buy online. I'm tending towards a 10x at the moment.

[SlackAlice]

Ron
Just be careful that Naz does'nt include teasels to go with the seed ;)

[vivandorron]

SA.... I have been frightened all day by your remarks; fearful that a Nomad on a Camel might arrive on my doorstep to punish me for my transgressions.:-)

Honest, it's a teasel Naz.:-)

Ron