I would go with VortexDiamondbacks ...Vortex has really sharp optics, i believe you would be really surprise if you compared them to Nikon.
Vortex Diamondback - $200 Free shipping
http://www.opticsbestbuy.com/VORTEX-Binoculars-Wide-field-of-View-8x42-Diamondback-DBK-428.html