Best sub-£1000 bins

[Goatboy]

Thinking of splashing out on some 10x42s and I'm still undecided on which ones.

Swarovski SLCs are most likely but Leica, Nikon, Zeiss offer options. I may not be popular for saying so but I really liked the Steiner Discovery series when I tried a pair recently.

I know there is no real answer and I need to go to a shop and try a few out but I'd still like to hear other people's views.

[JeffH]

Hi Goatboy,

I invested in a new pair of binoculars back in July and was originally torn between Swarovski 8.5 x 42 ELs and Leica 8 x 42 Ultravids. However, on a day up at Titchwell RSPB reserve I had the opportunity to try both of these plus the Zeiss Victory 8 x 42s and the Steiner Discovery 8 x 44s "in the field".

Price wasn't really a consideration but after this comparison test I opted for the Steiners which although the cheapest of the 4 were the best performers for me and, as a spectacle wearer, were the easiest to use due to the larger ocular lenses.

As you say, you've really got to try all the ones on your shortlist for yourself but I'm sure you'll find the Steiner Discoverys hard to beat

Jeff

[Mick_S]

I use Canon 12X36 with IS, perhaps you should check them out too, I have got so used to IS now I wouldn't consider spending big money on bins that didn't have it.

Mick

[Goatboy]

Originally Posted by JeffH

Hi Goatboy,

I invested in a new pair of binoculars back in July and was originally torn between Swarovski 8.5 x 42 ELs and Leica 8 x 42 Ultravids. However, on a day up at Titchwell RSPB reserve I had the opportunity to try both of these plus the Zeiss Victory 8 x 42s and the Steiner Discovery 8 x 44s "in the field".

Price wasn't really a consideration but after this comparison test I opted for the Steiners which although the cheapest of the 4 were the best performers for me and, as a spectacle wearer, were the easiest to use due to the larger ocular lenses.

As you say, you've really got to try all the ones on your shortlist for yourself but I'm sure you'll find the Steiner Discoverys hard to beat

Jeff

Thanks Jeff. I did try a few at the Birdfair this year and I REALLY liked the Steiners. Nice bright image and built like a tank. I'm never sure how much you get from trying them out in such a short time under one lighting condition. It's not an easy decision when you look at the amount of money your laying out.

I know a lot of people swear by Swarovski and Leica but I'm a little suspicious that some of the extra money you're paying for is in the name.

I think I may be changing my mind a few times before I eventually buy

[dunlin]

I have a pair of leica trinovids bn 10x42 not sure if you can still get them.
They are really sharp and good in low light and built to withstand the knocks. You also get a thirty year guarantee.

The down side is they are quite heavy and if you dont where glasses when you pull out the eyecups they can get dirt trapped in them.I dont find this a problem

If you can find a pair i would highly recommend them.

regards mark

[Jon]

The best ones are the ones that suit you best. I am not being flippant but there is an element of personal choice. If you have up to £1000 you can assure yourself you will be able to get something very good! All the big makes deliver, Leica Zeiss Swarovski are the ones that spring immediately to mind. Most have brought out new models over the last 12 months too. Perhaps weight is important to you, perhaps size, you may want 7/8x as opposed to 10x, the objective may be 30/40 or 50mm. have a good look around and have a clear idea of what you want them for, e.g. birds if so is it mostly land birds or sea birds (the latter may be better suited to 10x50) do you need close focusing for looking at butterflies or dragonflies.
Having said that I would be delighted with any of the three makes I mentioned. I currently own Opticron - had them for years they are perfectly adequate - but the Swarovski and Leica are definitely better I am sure the Zeiss would be too but I have not tried them.
Now just to throw a spanner in the works have you got a decent camera and lens- you may decide to spend less on the binocular and more on a camera!!

Hope this helps

Jon

[Goatboy]

Not flippant at all Jon, I know what you mean. I will make a trip into town this weekend and have a play

I'm not really into the photography side of things, I prefer to just spend my time enjoying what's in front of me (I'm a bit strange like that). I'm also the worlds worst photographer.

[galanthus]

Originally Posted by Goatboy

I'm also the worlds worst photographer.

I can tell that by your self portrait pic taken for your avatar

[Goatboy]

Originally Posted by galanthus

I can tell that by your self portrait pic taken for your avatar

To be fair that's an old picture. I look a lot better since I've lost the braces