Bob,
 
I think this topic has been visited several times in the last year or two,  
so check the archives for references to articles and advice..   In  your price 
range, the Nikon Monarchs (street price ~$350) are pretty tough to  beat.   
The various reviews indicate you pretty much have to skip the  $1000 threshold 
and go to the $1500-2000+ range (i.e. Zeiss, Swaravski)  in  order to better 
the optics of these binocs.  I have the 8x42's and have no  desire to 'move up', 
being quite impressed with the fit/feel, brightness and  image quality these 
binocs afford.   If I can't ID a bird with these,  it is not the binoc's 
fault!   They are also waterproof and have a  small IPD which I need....
 
Good birding,
 
Terry
 
 
 
 
 
In a message dated 12/27/2007 6:31:16 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
[log in to unmask] writes:

I am  about ready to step up to a better pair of binoculars after using a 
micro  pair for several years.  I'm trying to figure out if 8x42 or 10x42  
will better suit my birding needs.  I'm looking at several between  $200 
and $300 and would welcome any input based upon the experience of  
others.  Please respond off the list.

Thanks,
Bob in  Barre





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