Kirkl, I've had my Bighorns for about 14 years. For the money, I think they are a good buy. I've used them in all different kinds of weather with no problems. I never really liked the bottom covers and took those off. I went to the Nikon Monarchs in 2002, not because there is anything wrong with the Steiners, but I wanted a smaller, lighter glass. I thought the two glasses were comparable in quality. Both the Steiners and Nikons have been relegated to backup duty as I have picked up the Swaro 10x42 EL's this year. Bottom line, IMHO, they are good glasses that will do the job until you choose to go high end.
Good luck,
Garion