Quality binoculars?

[cratz2]

(I searched around and got some various threads on specific binoculars but thought I should start a new thread.)

So, in the $200-ish range, what are some of the top choices in not-huge binoculars? These are going to be for general use... not neccessarily for game glassing. Not stuck on (or really even wanting) something ultra compact, but my full sized model is too big... something roughly the size of the these Steiner Predators.

Matter of fact, SWFA has this model in stock, refurbished, for $100... Can anyone top that for quality/value?

Thanks everyone.

 

[El Tejon]

cratz2, I used to work at Galyan's (Pike Plaza store) during undergrad. We used to sell a great pair of B&L 7x50s with full-coated lenses for $100.00. I used my discount to buy the old man a pair. He loves them and uses them when horseback riding to look at birdies and critters. Great bang for the buck.

The B&Ls were bigger than those 8x22s you show. However, I like big as it allows more light in so you can use them with less eye strain and during dawn/dusk easier. Have you tried Galyan's?

 

[cratz2]

Actually, I just recently got in my mind to get a nice set. My oldest daughter and I have been getting into looking at birds and wildlife and now were on two lakes which allows all sorts of stuff for a six year old to look at. She has a pair of some Tasco compacts which really aren't that bad and I have a 10 year old pair of Nikons that I think I paid about $80 for way back when. Just thinking that I might as well upgrade as add a a similar pair.

I've bought all kinds of stuff from the Pike Plaza store. Matter of fact, it used to be the closest gun/sporting goods store to me when we used to live off of 56th and Raceway or so... How long ago did you work there? I don't recognize your name or picture but... folks change. I've spent many hours in the gun dept there.

Honestly I haven't even started actually looking at them, just in the early research stages (read: started two hours ago )

 

[El Tejon]

crat, I have a great pair of aus Jena roof prisms. Outstanding. However, major coin involved. For the money the B&Ls were great.

Worked at Pike Plaza when it opened until left for D.C. in '92. I worked when Vicki then Craig Worland were department heads. "Code 77 marine accessories" (good looking female buying a canoe paddle).

 

[Northwest Cajun]

I have the stiner green military and marine 8x for 199 from the BX
They work great. I'd reccomend them

Cajun