Hi all, I've been screening the Binocular section of the forum for a few days as a means of gathering information prior to purchase of my first "bins".
I live in Australia and visit the Outback 2-3 times a year and would like to explore both bird watching and astronomy using binoculars. I don't go shooting or hunting, although enjoy bushwalking and looking at animals from a distance.
From what I can gather so far for birdwatching 8X40 is a reasonable first choice, and for astronomy, proabably 10X50 is a good starting point. There may be an occasional sports game in there somewhere as well.
I don't really understand a lot of the terms used (porro etc) except in a reudimentary way. However it seems like a good option if visual quality is required, so I think that's the path I'll take.
I have an reasonable Pentax camera system, which began in the early 80's and I'm very loyal to the brand, for no real reason other than I've enjoyed the product and design ethos of the company. That's not to say I wouldn't entertain other options. I do however have a lot of respect for Japanese manufacturing systems and quality control processes.
Having looked at costs, I think I'm down to a Nikon Action Ex Vs Pentax PCF WPII. I'm in my 40's and have young children who would also use the binoculars. I don't wear glasses.I have a sturdy manfrotto tripod with a quick release plate.
I'd appreciate any feedback from the group about the direction I'm heading in, and whether I should be considering other options. If I am heading in the right direction, is either of these models "better" or more appropriate for my needs?
Thanking you in advance - RalfR.
I live in Australia and visit the Outback 2-3 times a year and would like to explore both bird watching and astronomy using binoculars. I don't go shooting or hunting, although enjoy bushwalking and looking at animals from a distance.
From what I can gather so far for birdwatching 8X40 is a reasonable first choice, and for astronomy, proabably 10X50 is a good starting point. There may be an occasional sports game in there somewhere as well.
I don't really understand a lot of the terms used (porro etc) except in a reudimentary way. However it seems like a good option if visual quality is required, so I think that's the path I'll take.
I have an reasonable Pentax camera system, which began in the early 80's and I'm very loyal to the brand, for no real reason other than I've enjoyed the product and design ethos of the company. That's not to say I wouldn't entertain other options. I do however have a lot of respect for Japanese manufacturing systems and quality control processes.
Having looked at costs, I think I'm down to a Nikon Action Ex Vs Pentax PCF WPII. I'm in my 40's and have young children who would also use the binoculars. I don't wear glasses.I have a sturdy manfrotto tripod with a quick release plate.
I'd appreciate any feedback from the group about the direction I'm heading in, and whether I should be considering other options. If I am heading in the right direction, is either of these models "better" or more appropriate for my needs?
Thanking you in advance - RalfR.
