Hi all.
I'm new to the board and new to birding (I love viewing all wildlife).
Here is my problem, I had the Swarovski EL 8.5x42---which I was just forced to sell. Now I am in the market for a cheaper binocular. I live out in the boonies so I can't go to the nearest optics dealer and do a comparison.
I have done my research and have narrowed the list down to these----by the way, they have to be waterproof and fogproof.
Bausch & Lomb 8x42 Elite model #620842 $550 and supposed to be new in the box.
Leica 8x32 BA---used and I have heard Leica's service isn't as good on second hand bino's.
Nikon 8x42 Venturer LX---refurbs for $650
Pentax 8x43 DCF SP---new with warranty (My wife owned the DCF WP model once and it was very good for the money)
I really need to stay under $700 if possible. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.
I hated to see the EL's go, but I had to. They were superb.
I'm new to the board and new to birding (I love viewing all wildlife).
Here is my problem, I had the Swarovski EL 8.5x42---which I was just forced to sell. Now I am in the market for a cheaper binocular. I live out in the boonies so I can't go to the nearest optics dealer and do a comparison.
I have done my research and have narrowed the list down to these----by the way, they have to be waterproof and fogproof.
Bausch & Lomb 8x42 Elite model #620842 $550 and supposed to be new in the box.
Leica 8x32 BA---used and I have heard Leica's service isn't as good on second hand bino's.
Nikon 8x42 Venturer LX---refurbs for $650
Pentax 8x43 DCF SP---new with warranty (My wife owned the DCF WP model once and it was very good for the money)
I really need to stay under $700 if possible. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.
I hated to see the EL's go, but I had to. They were superb.