Alexis Powell
Natural history enthusiast
I thought I might break down and post a simple answer, but then I read the question again and realized I really don't have a ready answer because I'm flummoxed by having to figure out how to figure in considerations such as such as weight and included accessories. I own a bunch of binos but generally use only a few as my workhorses, the selection of the day generally determined by the largest size that is practical to carry given everthing else I might be doing.
For dedicated birding when size/weight are of little concern, I prefer the Swarovski 8.5x42 EL (I like big exit pupils for forgiveness with eye placement). However, I use an Op/Tech neoprene strap and a B&L Elite faux-leather case with it, and I don't use the yucky hard plastic rainguard.
For birding and butterflying, or dedicated birding when size/weight are a concern, I prefer the Zeiss 8x32 FL. However, I use an Eagle Optics neoprene strap and a Leica 8x32 BN leather case with it. I do use the Zeiss FL rainguard, but I've used a sharp blade to modify it to mimic the Leica BA/BN rainguard design. I'm not a big fan of the 8x32 FL ergonomics, so when weight but not size is a concern, I use the Swarovski 8x32 EL instead. I use an Op/Tech strap with that one and keep it in the Zeiss 8x32 FL case.
For birding and butterflying, or opportunistic observation in the course of other activities such as outdoor photography, I prefer the Leica 8x20 Ultravid BL. I do use the supplied necktrap (though I pass the ends through the bino eyelets and then knot the ends so they can't slip back through rather than using the ridiculous little buckles, they adding needless complication, being prone to slippage over time, and possibly scratching the housing or optics when the binos are tucked into a pocket), and I use the leather clamshell case too. I can't remember if they came with any covers, but if they did, I certainly don't use them.
So....for the final roof-prism reckoning, weight and size turn out to be very important but entirely context sensitive. All else being equal, I prefer big binos to small ones, but once I've committed to a "size" of bino, I'm generally satisfied with the optics that the above models offer, so that's a contextual wash in the overall equation too. Therefore, as I see it, the grand winner, because I consider its ergonomics and build quality second to none and (mainly) due to the fact that I actually use its supplied accessories, is...
the Leica 8x20 Ultravid BL !
--AP
PS Oops! almost forgot the porros. I don't like the straps, cases, eyecups etc provided with any porro I've ever seen, so those factors are out. I'd say it's a tie between the Nikon 8x32 SE and Nikon 8x30 EII depending on whether eye-relief and build or gee-whiz wide view are more important.
