need binoculars HELP! (1 Viewer)

Hey everyone.

I was going to put this in the binos forum but decided I would be better here so I can get some advice from Aussies about Aussie shops.

I need a new pair of binoculars. My old ones have snapped. I don't have a lot of cash to spend - $200 to $300.

Initially I was going to go for a pair of Bushnell H20 8x42 waterproofs.

Then I googled around and saw that a few people prefer the Nikon Sporter 8x36 (is it only 8x42 now?).

And from the Sporter I discovered that I simply must upgrade to a Nikon Monarch 8x42...

So, by now I am thoroughly confused. I only want these for general birding - in the bush, rainforest, and sometimes out on the sea/creek in the kayak.

My old binos were Celestron Outlands 10x42 which I really liked -until they died on me.

Anyone able to offer any recommendations on good deals in Aus at the moment?

Cheers

Ben

the shops i prefer are andrewscom.com.au (sydney); bintel.com.au (syd & melb); telescopes&astronomy.com.au (SA) or blue wren gift shop (boca)
in this price range i prefer porro's..you might look at pentax - at the SA dealer (good prices)

Thanks for the suggestions, I'll have a shop around... Ben