Here's the one's on hand:
SV 8.5X42
Nikon EDG II 8X42
SF 8X42
SLC HD 8X42
FL 8X42
Maven 8X42
I was originally thinking about the SF and EDG II....but them the Maven is exactly the same price point.
Y'all wanna pick two?
U was
The Maven and the EDG get my vote for utterly self-serving reasons....
Is the EDG worth the extra outlay in terms of optical performance, or does the mhg get close enough on that score, that its larger FOV, lighter weight, and possibly improved diopter adjustment make it a clearly better choice? Also, does the eye relief spec work well with glasses? The EDG has a much better figure for that.
Always interesting to see what compromises a manufacturer makes, whether it be optical goods or automobiles, in order to establish a multi-tiered product line that doesn't undercut its flagship product.
Also, I'm curious if the 'maverick' Maven can equal or exceed optical performance and build quality of an established manufacturer at the same price point. In addition, which one is most comfortable with eyeglasses? As many have noted, weight of a binocular can
be helpful in holding it steady, so its not entirely a negative for a bin to weigh reasonably more, as long as one can carry it comfortably.
Whatever you end up choosing for comparative purposes, I'll be reading with great interest!
-Bill