Looking for some good binos

[theplatoon]

Been surfing the net and just can't find exactly what i'm looking for. so maybe you guys can help/point in the right direction.

I am looking for compact, zoom binoculars (8-15/20), fog/water proof, under $300. I go to search engines under a web site plug in what i want and of course "no binoculars fit your search". i bowhunt and want something light/out of the way when you draw, but good enough when i take my boys rifle hunting i can see something 400-500 yards away.

Thanks ahead for the help/info,

theplat

 

[legacy]

I use a pair or Wind Rivers. They are the same as the Leupold 10X42 Cascades. They weigh 22 oz. and are relatively small. They have worked great for bowhunting. They have never let me down. The 10X42's are $279.99 at Cabela's. They also make smaller models such as the Mesa and Olympic.

 

[Foreman4x4]

LAST EDITED ON Dec-15-04 AT 10:23AM (MST)[p]I don't think the words "zoom" and "good binoculars" belong in the same sentence. There's no way I'd recommend a "zoom" binocular, as they're usually low quality and pretty much a gimick. Same with binoculars that have a built in digital camera.

There's no reason that an 8x or 10x mid-size binocular wouldn't serve your intended purpose. In the $300.00 range, I'd suggest you look for a porro prism because you generally get more bang for the buck vs a roof prism.

The only dual power binocular I'd ever recommend is the Leica Duovid's, but they're not really "zoom", but rather "switch power" binos. They're also way more expensive than $300.00.

 

[crazyaboutcoues]

You just got a "thank you" check from work didn't you? How many years are you planning to hunt with your 300.00 binos? At least 20-30 years right. Save an extra 400.00 and buy the Ziess 10x40 Classics. Think of it as an investment. But don't ask your wife for permission, it's easier to ask for forgiveness. he he

You won't regret it!!!!!!



www.gilawildernesshunting.com

 

[BOBCATBEST]

Coues and foreman have given you some excellent advise. I have never heard anyone say that they wish they would have went with cheaper glass in order to save some money. Invest the money and they should last you a lifetime.

I had a pair of the wind rivers and wasn't that impressed. But maybe it was just me.

I think cabelas still carries the Zeiss Classics. Good luck!

-Bobcat

 

[JoeC]

I just picked up some wind river series ( cascades) from leupold
10x42 roof prizum. There compact & don't weigh very much they also work very good in low light.Heres some # for you FOV at 1000 yds 260 ft,Wht 23.1 ozs, Lth 5.5 inches, 100% water proof, armored & nitrogen filled.I shoot my bow with them around my shoulders with a bino harness.They don't get in the way.I dont know if you wear glasses but they have twist eyecups that work great. I picked them up at Wal-mart for $ 279.00+tax plus they have a life time warranty. Cabelas & bass pro shops carry them as well.
Hope this helps

Joe C