RE: Good pair of binoculars for around $300
You might do a web search for 7x42 or 8x42 Bushnell Discoverer's. I love mine and they have a great rep for good glass. I use them stand hunting because I can see in near dark conditions and can see into the foliage much better than with eyes alone! This, IMHO is the real test for hunting binos. That is, how well one can see into the foliage and pick out deer shapes, antlers, etc. That is when clarity, resolution and color representation are really tested.