BirdForum is the net's largest birding community dedicated to wild birds and birding, and is absolutely FREE!

Register for an account to take part in lively discussions in the forum, post your pictures in the gallery and more.

Reply to thread

Message: <blockquote data-quote="DanDavis" data-source="post: 3595376" data-attributes="member: 117411">Thanks for the advice, Lee, it's much appreciated. I am indeed already extremely interested in all of nature, have been since a little boy. My background is in ecology, and up until 2015 I worked as an ecologist. All the points you made are incredibly valid, and it is these that have help form my choice. I have just got back from another outing with the bins, and although I love the 10x50, ultimately it doesn't weigh up against the 8.5x42. I, like you, consider the close focus as an important feature. I also spend time watching different animals, so the extra weight does become a factor with this in mind. Also, as previously said, this is going to be my one family binocular, so I need it to be a good all rounder. I'm happy I've spent the time trying different bins, I now am 200% happy with my final choice. Tomorrow I am taking a work colleague to see a family of wild beavers I know of. I can't wait to actually enjoy my new binocular, instead of stressing over comparisons. All the best, Dan</blockquote>