Pentax makes a great value bino, the DCFWP II. In an 8x42, these are just a tad out of your $300 limit at about $330. I have bought these for my son-in-law and wife last Christmas. Both binos have held up well in typical hunting conditions. They compare extremely well with another brand I bought for myself, for about 4X the price ! If you can swing the additional $$$, I am certain you will be pleased. Look at "Bear Basin Outfitters" for pricing. I am certain others sell these as well for about what BB does.