I kinda went thru the same dilemma last fall. I have always used inexpensive optics $200-$300 per pair. I started hunting out west about ten years ago and finally last fall I decided if I were going to continue spending the money to hunt out of state I need to make sure I was getting maximum benefit. So I decided to buy a high end pair of binos. I made several trips to Cabela's and spent a lot of time looking thru all of the various brands and models. I researched warranties and read everything I could find as far as reviews and tests. I bought the Swarovski New SLC in 10x42. Although the ELs were nicer ergonomically I could not see any difference in the quality/clarity/brightness of the image they provided. I couldn't talk myself into putting out the extra $400 just because I could wrap my hands all the way around the barrels. I'm not saying the ELs aren't better, I just couldn't see the difference. I'm really happy with my SLCs.