Not sure how much they are now but over 20 years ago I bought a pair of armored 8x30 auto focus Steiner military binoculars. Love them. Been hunting in all sorts of weather,boating etc and besides a puppy getting a hold of the lens caps they have held up well.

Several years ago I asked the same question. Nikon seemed to be the most popular. That's what I purchased and I've been very happy with them.

Jim

quote:

Originally posted by Hildur:
Thanks for all the replies. I ended up going with a Vortex simply because the price was too good to pass up. It got great reviews and for the price if I don't like them I'll upgrade down the line and keep them in the car as a backup.

Vortex Gen 1 Diamondback 10x42 for $138

That is a good deal! I ordered a similar pair that cost $60 more.

Binos came in today. It's 82 degrees out, a nice bright sunny day so I did a quick peek around my neighborhood. Everything looks crystal clear. I'm used to the size and weight of the 10x32 Leupold BX-3 I used to have so this one is a bit bigger and heavier, however it is also 10mm larger so there's obvious benefits to that. All in all I'm happy with them. I'm not really using them for anything other than casual gazing and for checking groups at the range. For $138 I recommend them to anyone who doesn't have a pair or someone who wants a spare to throw in their bag/vehicle or doesn't want to take a much more expensive pair out where it could get damaged.