Well, as is the case with many things, it is a matter of personal prefence and circumstances. The 8x42 I own are awesome. They have top of the line bak4 lenses and are very bright. They are not inexpensive, but worth it.

My question really has to do with power rating, which some of you answered. It sounds like the majority prefer the 10 power. I am not sure what i will do. I like the idea of 12 power, but don't like giving up exit pupil and brightness. With 56 objective, the binocs become very heavy too.

I like the Leicas ok, but not overly impressed with the 10x 50s I used. I own a swar scope but have not used their binocs. I know they are good but also heavy. Steiner seems a good value, still expensive but more optics for the money. I will either purch the 10x50 or 12 x 56. My friend owns the 8x56 and they are the brightest binocs i have ever used, but heavy and not terribly powerful.