Digi,

I have to admit that I am surprised about your comments on the Monarch. Just about everyone I know that has handled the 8x42 model (10x42 is another issue) has come away saying very favorable things about them. In the most recent binocular review conducted at Cornell University the 8x42 Monarchs were actually rated the best full sized, mid priced bins. Supposedly their center field resolution rivals some of the high end glass.

However, quality control at this price point can be quite shaky. I bought a set of WindRiver Katmais the other day after looking through and exceptional pair at the store. When I got them home though the pair I bought did not have as crisp an image and a finicky focus. I should have followed my own advice and tried the specific pair I bought. Never will let that happen again.

Hope this helps some.