Snuffleupagus
Member

Many years ago when we had less money, I bought Zen-Ray Vista 8x42 binoculars for my wife. She is a birder and still uses them often.
I'd like to purchase either a complementary second pair or an upgrade to the Zen-Rays. We are going to Costa Rica soon - to the Osa Peninsula to be exact - a birder's paradise. Additionally, we are going on an Alaskan cruise (inside passage, therefore, calmer waters... I think 10x would be okay [maybe?]) in mid '24.
I've been eyeing Maven binoculars for some time. They seem to be of outstanding value and I appreciate that they're somewhat American made, as well as having an outstanding warranty.
In particular, I'm strongly considering the B.3 8x30. I've also looked at the Zeiss Conquest HD 8x32, however, the increased price does not seem to be worth paying over the B.3. Both would be better for hiking in Costa Rica than what we have now. I think I'd like to stay at or below $1,000 max here. Mavens at ~half that are definitely appealing.
For Alaska, unless you feel strongly otherwise, I think I'd go for a 10x42 model. Similar price point of $1,000 or less.
In the end, it would leave us with a travel 8x30/32, existing Zen-Ray 8x42, and the 10x42 for sea birding. I can see us bringing the 8x30/32 and the 8x42 to Costa Rica and then the 8x42 and 10x42 to Alaska... unless we are just so wowed with how much better higher quality binoculars are and leave the Zen-Rays in the dust... eventually replacing them with better 8x42s.
Please let me know your thoughts. I've tried to do some research on my own but admittedly am a novice.
I'd like to purchase either a complementary second pair or an upgrade to the Zen-Rays. We are going to Costa Rica soon - to the Osa Peninsula to be exact - a birder's paradise. Additionally, we are going on an Alaskan cruise (inside passage, therefore, calmer waters... I think 10x would be okay [maybe?]) in mid '24.
I've been eyeing Maven binoculars for some time. They seem to be of outstanding value and I appreciate that they're somewhat American made, as well as having an outstanding warranty.
In particular, I'm strongly considering the B.3 8x30. I've also looked at the Zeiss Conquest HD 8x32, however, the increased price does not seem to be worth paying over the B.3. Both would be better for hiking in Costa Rica than what we have now. I think I'd like to stay at or below $1,000 max here. Mavens at ~half that are definitely appealing.
For Alaska, unless you feel strongly otherwise, I think I'd go for a 10x42 model. Similar price point of $1,000 or less.
In the end, it would leave us with a travel 8x30/32, existing Zen-Ray 8x42, and the 10x42 for sea birding. I can see us bringing the 8x30/32 and the 8x42 to Costa Rica and then the 8x42 and 10x42 to Alaska... unless we are just so wowed with how much better higher quality binoculars are and leave the Zen-Rays in the dust... eventually replacing them with better 8x42s.
Please let me know your thoughts. I've tried to do some research on my own but admittedly am a novice.