Binoculars?

[dr_gn]

Guys - This may be in the wrong forum, but it's at least an optics/lens related question. Mods. feel free to move to 'Computers and Gadgets if necessary:

What are the best binoculars to buy? I want to use them for general use when out and about in the countryside, or at airshows or whatever.

I've got some great 1960's Swift 10x50's, but they are bulky and weigh a ton, so I never take them anywhere.

I'd say 8x would be the minimum, 10x ideal. I don't particularly want zoom binoculars either.

I want the best compromise between weight and image quality. compact size would be nice, but light weight is probably more important. Cost is obviously a consideration, but I know I will have to pay for quality, and don't mind doing so if I am getting genuine quality. Any advice from owners?

Thanks.

[GetCarter]

Check out the info on this site http://www.telescopes-binoculars.co.uk/

[Simpo Two]

Came across Luger recently in a chandlery - haven't used them but certainly a different name for the pot: www.the-binoculars-store.co.uk/luger-binoculars/

[dr_gn]

Thanks guys I'll have a read through that lot.

[GetCarter]

dr_gn said:

Thanks guys I'll have a read through that lot.

I've bought two pairs of bins from the Stocport lot (as per website in my post above)... they really know their stuff. Last time they suggested I spend less!

[dr_gn]

GetCarter said:

dr_gn said:

Thanks guys I'll have a read through that lot.

I've bought two pairs of bins from the Stocport lot (as per website in my post above)... they really know their stuff. Last time they suggested I spend less!

Great, thanks. Shame their Rotherham branch closed down, it was only 20 or so minutes away from me.

[dr_gn]

Ended up with some Helios 10x42's :

http://www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/Helios8x42Aer...

£145 - they are great. I asked in the shop (Rother Valley Optics) for binoculars with similar image quality to my old Swift 10x50's with half the size and weight. To my eyes, after a direct comparison with the Swifts, they in fact give much better image quality. They fulfill all my requirements, so can't ask more than that.

[Simpo Two]

From the same site:

'Leica produce some of the finest quality optics in the world including microscopes, equipment for the mining industry, photography equipment and binoculars. Since 1097 the Leica line has evolved and now offer the perfect binocular for virtually every use!'

With 900+ years to get it right, I should think so!

[dr_gn]

Simpo Two said:

From the same site:

'Leica produce some of the finest quality optics in the world including microscopes, equipment for the mining industry, photography equipment and binoculars. Since 1097 the Leica line has evolved and now offer the perfect binocular for virtually every use!'

With 900+ years to get it right, I should think so!

And with the equivalents costing £1350 I think the price has evolved pretty nicely too.