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Message: <blockquote data-quote="James Bean" data-source="post: 1442642" data-attributes="member: 64331"><p>Talisker: I'm sure Kevin and Steve are right, if you want to go for the practical solution. However, if you're like me, common sense doesn't always prevail; sometimes I like to buy old binoculars, not just as a collector but for the fun of using them, for birdwatching or otherwise. I too have Nikon 7x35 Action EX, which is very good, but I find I enjoy my old Nikon 7x35 A series even more, though not in the rain! Also, my recent Pentax 8x36 HS, a roof prism model with excellent ergonomics and optics for around £100, is a delight to use, but I still like my old 1970s 'fat porro' Pentax 8x40W (model 566) with wide 9.5' fov, bought mint on eBay for less than £50 (sharp optics, resembles Swift Audubon). I don't even mind using 'antiques' like my 6x30 (IF) US Navy BuShips Mk.XXXIII made in 1943 by Universal Camera Corp.(NY) which has incredibly sharp optics, the bonus being we share the same age! So don't be put off buying better class oldies; redeeming qualities usually include solid build and sometimes surprisingly good views. Get a good 'un and the world could be your lobster...</p></blockquote><p></p>