What binoculars do you use?

I have an ancient-looking 10x50 Bushnell Legacy, and I am contemplating upgrading. The Nikon Monarch 5 10x42 has caught my eye.

What binoculars do you use, and would you recommend it?

 

I was using a Saxon 10x21 that was waterproof and fogproof (until I dropped them in Uganda).

Now I'm using a pair of Nikon 10x21 and I'm quite happy with them. The next pair I buy will be a 12x.



Hix

 

I use Viking GR 10x45. I bought them from the RSPB shop at Loch Garten where you can compare the binoculars by watching the ospreys through them Try before you buy is always good advice!
This pair was recommended to me by a very nice Scottish sales assistant because I wear spectacles and have deep-set eyes too and this model has a particularly long eye relief (as it's called). They work very well for me.

Alan

 

I've got Nikon 8x42s. A little bulky for birding, but good image quality.

 

8x42 is bulky? Isn't that the most popular size for birders? You should try my 10x50 WWII-style bins for bulky!

 

21mm? Does that let enough light in? And wouldn't 12x be difficult to keep steady without a tripod?

 

It lets in enough light for me. I don't want anything bigger because they weigh so myuch more, and they get in the way of my camera. As for keeping steady - I'll let you know when I get one!



Hix

 

I am using a Bynolyt Tern 10X45, which is good quality, robust and really waterproof. I would recommend this brand in general, though I do not know how availability is outside NL .