Steiner Binocs

[sumpnz]

All right, I've been looking around and I think I've settled on buying a pair of Steiner Binocs. SWFA's Sample List has factory refurb'd ones that are in my price range ($100-250).

My question to you guys is this: What the heck is the difference between some of the model lines. They all appear to be porro prism, and very similar in outward appearance. Which ones have the better light transmission, image clarity, ruggedness, etc.

I'm probably going to go for either one of the 8x30 or 9x40 pairs, but is there really any significant difference between the Hunter/Safari/Big Horn/Predator/Military Marine/etc models. In other words, tell me why I should spend $300 on the 8x30 Night Hunters, vs $200 on the 9x40 Safari, vs $100 on the 8x30 Firebird, vs something in between.

I will be using these binocs for hunting deer in SE Arizona, though I may be eventually moving to somewhere more forrested in the future. Some of the 10x50 and 12x40 sets are also in my price range, but even with the long distances involved in AZ hunting I'm not sure if those would be a good idea. Some advise there would also be appreciated.

 

[greg531mi]

I have a 8x30 Military Marine for 10 years now, and think it is a good binocular. What I like about it, is you don't have to adjust it for focus, except for once, no mattter what the distance. For that reason only, I would recomend them, but also they are clear and seem to be quality glass for the money. I looked at their cats eye model, and seemed to be weird in their color. Might just have to get used to them. Stiener is not the best glass, but for the money, a great value.
The best way to look for a binocular, is to go to a sporting goods store and compare them yourself.

 

[mete]

You have to look at all the specs. For example my Steiners are water resistant , more expensive models are water proof. More expensive models use different coatings for the lenses. Some are armoured etc. If you're tight for money refurbs or obsolete models are a good way to go.