I have been using a Vanguard ED (ver I) 8.5x45 binocular for the past few years and while it is very good, I think I am ready to upgrade.
To set some basic requirements/parameters in place: Cost - I can’t afford the top German alphas but am willing to go upwards of $1000 for something that will provide excellent views and is durable enough to last for years/ has good warranty.
Specs -
Eye Relief: I wear glasses. My current set has an ER of 20mm so this has never been an issue, but higher is better.
FOV: current set has 114m/340ft. I’d like to get something as much or higher than this.
Magnification: not sure if I want to drop down to 8x and feel I’m missing 0.5x but am willing to go up to 10x. Spotting birds shouldn’t be an issue with 10x, but I’m not sure about steady hand holding at the higher mag. Would like to give it a go and find out.
Close focus: under 10ft
Weight/ size: my current set is 770g/27.2oz and I’ve never had an issue with this size on the neck strap. Also I will be getting a harness to carry binoculars and camera (Panasonic G9 + 100-400mm) together from time to time. The harness should allow me to take on something a little heavier.
Subjective factors: excellent center field resolution, bright viewing on overcast days and accurate color (with good CA correction) - basically better than what the vanguard ED can deliver. In reading this over, I hope I am not describing an alpha
I would appreciate your suggestions and help in narrowing down my options.
Thanks!
To set some basic requirements/parameters in place: Cost - I can’t afford the top German alphas but am willing to go upwards of $1000 for something that will provide excellent views and is durable enough to last for years/ has good warranty.
Specs -
Eye Relief: I wear glasses. My current set has an ER of 20mm so this has never been an issue, but higher is better.
FOV: current set has 114m/340ft. I’d like to get something as much or higher than this.
Magnification: not sure if I want to drop down to 8x and feel I’m missing 0.5x but am willing to go up to 10x. Spotting birds shouldn’t be an issue with 10x, but I’m not sure about steady hand holding at the higher mag. Would like to give it a go and find out.
Close focus: under 10ft
Weight/ size: my current set is 770g/27.2oz and I’ve never had an issue with this size on the neck strap. Also I will be getting a harness to carry binoculars and camera (Panasonic G9 + 100-400mm) together from time to time. The harness should allow me to take on something a little heavier.
Subjective factors: excellent center field resolution, bright viewing on overcast days and accurate color (with good CA correction) - basically better than what the vanguard ED can deliver. In reading this over, I hope I am not describing an alpha
I would appreciate your suggestions and help in narrowing down my options.
Thanks!