Re: Binocular Help

"Carp" <carp4154@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

I am getting ready to purchase a new set of binocs. They will be used for birding and just regular binocular stuff.
I am looking at the Pentax 8x28 DCF MP and Nikon Monarch 8x42.
$250 is about my limit.
Should I look at binocs with a "zoom" feature?

NO. Zoom is going to do damage to the view, particularly in
lower-priced binoculars.

You have two pretty reasonable models picked out above. The objective
lense diameter (the bigger of the two numbers) is considerably smaller
on the Pentaxes than the Nikons, which will have two optical
consequences: 1) the resolution of fine detail, especially at larger distances,
will be somewhat less on the Pentaxes, and 2) the Pentaxes will not
give as bright an image as ambient light conditions get low, like in
very deep shade, or near dawn or dusk. As a benefit, the Pentaxes
are more compact and lighter.

Other good models in your price range is the Audubon Equinox HP
8x42, the Celestron Noble 8x32 or 8x42, the Pentax DCF XP 8x33
($299 but very nice and very light), and the Swift Ultra Light Roof
8x42.


--
Randy


.