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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Pileatus" data-source="post: 3152496" data-attributes="member: 9609">No. Actually, a 10X42 (used to be 10X40) is probably the best choice for someone who can heft the weight and keep it steady! After seeing more than a few "little old ladies" toting 10X50 Swarovisions, I bought one for myself. The 10X is more immersive than either our 8.5X42 or 8X32's, but it's not for everyone. My wife's not-for-debate comfort limit is 20 ounces (Nikon 8X32 SE and 8X32 SV). I'm quite sure that's why we have so many excellent choices!After using a 7X42 for ten years, I concluded the only reason for owning one is a more stable view. I hesitated to buy the 8.5X42 SV based on handshake and FOV concerns. I was wrong on both accounts. Interestingly, the view in a 27 ounce 7X42 shakes a lot more than the view in a compact, lightweight 8X32 SV. Weight (and size) really make a difference if you're looking for a stable, comfortable handheld view. When I can no longer hold a bin stable I'll be "downgrading" to the 8X32 SV or a lightweight IS model...if and when they appear.8X may be the most popular size but I think a lot of very serious birders go for 10X magnification. The 10X50 is a bit much but the 10X42 models are really the sweet spot for aperture and magnification.</blockquote>