I say go small larger models are bulky and cumbersome and your eyes are still you best bet when casing the area for movement. Plus travelling light is the best way to go. I prefer the compacts to look closer at movement when spotted but still is the best way to hunt.

I have to agree with Stripper phil about too many gadgets You would not be able to be still or quiet with all the gadgets everyone recomends. Rattle bag, call, cough silencer, binoculars, game ear, survival kit, etc.

Are you hunting archery or rifle? I think how you hunt should factor into that decision as well do you ground hunt? Sit in a blind, treestand? Large models can be a literal pain in the neck and cumbersome when drawing back a bow or lifting a rifle compacts are able to fit in a pocket. Nothing would get me more ticked at myself then spooking a deer because my binoculars fell to the ground, swung into my bow, etc. Most treestands aren't exactly your living room easy chair there is no tv tray or coffee table to set anything down on so you can draw your weapon. If you are in a ground blind maybe you are able to set them on the ground quietly. How you hunt should really help you decide what equipment you need.