Looking for an 8x32 in the $300 range (1 Viewer)

[lmans66]

Being recently retired…. And with huge inflation (and prices will never go down)…. I am learning to appreciate non alphas optics now. They work just fine depending on level of optics /price point/cost.

 

[winginit]

So which bino did you end up going with?

I ordered the Opticron Explorer WA ED-R 8x32. Arrived yesterday so I haven't had time for any serious birding yet. But focus is sharp, color is good, CA very well controlled. I've experienced a little of the blackout issue but I don't think it will be a problem.

 

[JOC1]

I ordered the Opticron Explorer WA ED-R 8x32. Arrived yesterday so I haven't had time for any serious birding yet. But focus is sharp, color is good, CA very well controlled. I've experienced a little of the blackout issue but I don't think it will be a problem.

When I first got them, I was worried about the initial blackout I experienced, but over time it became very manageable. I say give it a few weeks to get used to it and you should be able to minimize it pretty well. Hope it goes well, look forward to hearing how your experience goes👍

 

[winginit]

When I first got them, I was worried about the initial blackout I experienced, but over time it became very manageable. I say give it a few weeks to get used to it and you should be able to minimize it pretty well. Hope it goes well, look forward to hearing how your experience goes👍

Hoping to get out to a water habitat next week to do more testing. But so far, I like the Opticron very much. I do wish the US warranty was 10 years, like the UK warranty, instead of 5 years. But at this price point, not really an issue.

 

[Siggy]

The GPO Spectra, from Costco are very nice and $329. Also, the Maven C series.

 

[winginit]

The GPO Spectra, from Costco are very nice and $329. Also, the Maven C series.

Siggy, I've been pleased with the Opticron Explorer WA ED-R. Good views, relatively light weight, no noticeable CA.

 

[JOC1]

Siggy, I've been pleased with the Opticron Explorer WA ED-R. Good views, relatively light weight, no noticeable CA.

Glad to hear they have worked out for you! hopefully you've been able to master the blackout issue

 

[jeanluc125]

Clearly the best for me, ZEISS 8x30B Dialyt second-hand from the years 1974-1980 approximately for a reasonable budget.
In this period they are not yet T*, so they are a bit sensitive to flare, but they are extremely sharp over a large part of the field, not as bright as current productions, but also much more comfortable and relaxing for long periods of use.
I bought mine for 200€ on eBay, in very good condition.
They are my favorite just after my Swarovsky NL Pure 10x30.

Regards,
Jean-Luc

 

[Birdbrain14]

Clearly the best for me, ZEISS 8x30B Dialyt second-hand from the years 1974-1980 approximately for a reasonable budget.
In this period they are not yet T*, so they are a bit sensitive to flare, but they are extremely sharp over a large part of the field, not as bright as current productions, but also much more comfortable and relaxing for long periods of use.
I bought mine for 200€ on eBay, in very good condition.
They are my favorite just after my Swarovsky NL Pure 10x30.

Regards,
Jean-Luc

Jean Luc,
I am thrilled that U found the right scope for your application. 30mm aperture is too small for me. I used a 10x50 bino for a long time then decided to try a spotter. Shopped around and found a handheld 16x80 on E-Bay that rocks. Nice wide, flat field, lightweight and no tripod because of low power and design. What ever hits the spot. Birdbrain14

 

[jeanluc125]

Jean Luc,
I am thrilled that U found the right scope for your application. 30mm aperture is too small for me. I used a 10x50 bino for a long time then decided to try a spotter. Shopped around and found a handheld 16x80 on E-Bay that rocks. Nice wide, flat field, lightweight and no tripod because of low power and design. What ever hits the spot. Birdbrain14

Glad for you that you have found your happiness
Best regards
Jean-Luc