I'll toss out that I've got the Zeiss Terra ED 8x42 (Eagle Optics $339, 5
star rating) and LOVE them. They're lightweight, have a great field of
vision & rock when it comes to lowlight situations. I've had other folks
with much pricier binoculars try mine and drool. In this price range I
think they are tops. Oh, and I wear glasses and have ample eye relief with
these.

But I completely agree that if your friend can they should go to a local
store to get some hands on experience to see what feels best for them.

I'd also suggest looking at B&HPHOTO for price comparison - they
periodically run sales that leave me stunned ($1500-2000 difference from
next nearest competitor in Kowa scopes, etc. & I've had excellent customer
service when dealing with them).

Best of luck & happy birding,

Isis Erb
Burlington, VT

On Monday, January 25, 2016, Mona Bearor <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> A friend asked me for advice on purchasing birding bins.  She is a new
> birder and willing to spend between $200 and $500, but stressed that the
> upper limit was reserved for a pair that was " noticeably superior to
> others."  Can anyone offer practical advice or review on a specific model
> they use in this price range?  I've already suggested WBU in Saratoga if
> she
> wants to shop local and have a face-to-face  "hands-on" and Eagle Optics
> for
> a good selection and expert advice.  I also gave her a basic "Choosing a
> Birding Binocular" handout that I prepared years ago for our Audubon
> chapter
> so she can get familiar with all the terminology.
>
> Thanks for any advice I can pass on to her,
> Mona Bearor
> S Glens Falls
>
>