RE: what magnification?
I prefer 8x42s as well. Where I hunt in Eastern Pennsylvania I am either using the bins for moderate range (100-200 yards) glassing or IDing animals at close quarters (30-40 yards). For these two distances I think the 8x42s brighter image, wider field of view and higher eye comfort level (larger exit pupil) give me a more preferrable package. With a 10x I prefer a 50 mm objectivebut then you tend to get into weight and length issues in comparison to an 8x42.