Binocular choice

[jforgham]

Hi to all,
I have just received a gift of £300 and wish to purchase a new pair of binoculars. I have always had 10 x 50's. For the last 10 years had a pair of Minolta classics which I have been very happy with, but a recent accident meant that they are no longer functioning properly.
I would be pleased to hear views as to what are probably the best pair for birding within my budget. I could add a little more if it really made a big difference. I spend a lot of time using my bins, visiting the North Norfolk coast frequently so; good distance, light and quick focussing would all be important factors.
All opinions gratefully appreciated.
Many thanks,
Jono

[Tero]

Well, it may be time to move on to 10x42 then. many models available. Someone will come and suggest Chinese ED 10x42. One or two brands in UK.

[matt green]

Maybe on your next visit to North Norfolk pop into Cleyspy in Glandford, they really do have an enormous selection to choose from and try out on the sites farmland surroundings.

If I where to choose any bin upto £300 it'd be Opticrons 8x42 HRWP (£239ish), handling is a bit quarky and the focus is a little slow (but not as slow as the Hawke Frontier ED 8x43) but they do have extremely good optics, second choice would be the Hawke ED 8x43 or for a bit more cash Opticrons 8x42 imagic SE.

Matt

[harold9649]

Hi jono
What about Opticron Imagic se 8x42 tried these recently and was very impressed also Frontier by Hawke 8x43 ED both around £300 if you wear glasses the Opticron would have the better eye relief.
Harold