Compact Binoculars ?

mathewsconquest2 · 07-18-2006, 09:07 AM

I have been seriously considering getting a pair of compact binoculars for hunting. I already have a pair of Luepold 10 x 42, but want a pair easier to pack for bowhunting and my black bear hunt next year. I looked at the Steiner compact- predator pro's and the Nikon's and they were ok. Then I looked at the Swarovski compacts 8 x 20's and was blown away. THE CLARITY WAS INCREDIBLE. But the price was $600.00. Not that they aren't worth every penny, but I'm not sure if I can swing that much.

Does anyone have any suggestions on a pair of compacts that are close to the Swarovski clarity at a price around $400 ???

-Mathewsconquest2

losthwy · 07-20-2006, 05:52 PM

Save your money and get the Swarovski. The cheaper compacts don't have the light gathering the better brands do. And that is important for the critical hunting timesare during the low light hours.

mathewsconquest2 · 07-21-2006, 08:24 AM

losthwy,
I have been been elk hunting in your great state a few times. Will the compacts serve me well in Colorado if I go back out in a few years?

-MC2

losthwy · 07-21-2006, 07:49 PM

The Swaroskiwill give you good service, lesser qualitycompacts won't have the light gathering you'll need early and late in the day.

PABowhntr · 07-22-2006, 06:23 AM

Nikon LXL 8x20s or Zeiss Victory 8x20s both sell right at $400 at Cabelas.

okcmco · 07-22-2006, 10:55 PM

The Steiner Merlin 8x24 binos just won the Outdoor life best buy for compact binoculars. Price 239. The editor's choice was the Zeiss (of course) Victory 8x20B T* at 455 bucks. Steiners are a good bet for the money.
But How about this: consider a giid set of 3x30's Yes they will be havier but you can see so much better with them. ANd they are not too expensive. Bushnell legend, Sightron, and burris all make a good inexpensive 8x30 or 8x32.
mco

unclebucket · 08-17-2006, 03:11 PM

i really like my steinerpredators. cheap, but great quality. Thats some good glass

CalHunter · 08-25-2006, 06:52 PM

I've got an older pair of Swarovski 7X30's and love them. You might want to consider looking around for a good used pair (maybe somebody is ready to upgrade) and pick them up in your price range. Swarovski has a lifetime warranty so you won't get burnt on the deal. Something to think about if you still want that superb clarity and light gathering.

maytom · 08-28-2006, 10:32 PM

Bushnell 8X32 Legends.

North Texan · 08-29-2006, 05:13 PM

I'd check E-bay and similar sites for a pair of Swarovski's.