I have gradually, through the years, worked my way
up in "glass quality". I have learned two things that
always
hold true:
1. Compact binoculars do not compare to full size...period
2. Spend as much as you can afford...afterwards, you will
be glad you did
I have gone from Nikon Monarch ATB's (8 x40), to Cabela's Alaskan
Guide's (10 x 42), and finally ending up with the glasses I've always
wanted, Leica (8 x32). These are all quality optics situated at different
price points several hundred dollars apart. Every person must decide
for themselves what they are willing to pay, but make no mistake -
there is a noticeable difference at different price points. The true test
is side-by-side comparisons between models....outside, not inside a
brightly lit store. Optics are one of the few things I know of where 'you
get what you pay for'....
Sorry to get "off topic" a bit
. The Alaskan Guide 10 x 42 binocular
is a
excellent glass. I've had mine several years and will use them
in the future when I hunt out west. I do have a couple of minor
complaints: 1) the bottom/large lens covers tend to pop off very
easily, which can be aggrevating 2) I need to use 2 hands
to hold the glasses up to my eyes, if I only use one the other side of
my binoculars falls down, away from my eye - this was one of the first
things I noticed with my Leica's, once adjusted, they stay put allowing
for occasional glassing with one hand.
Cabela's customer service should be considered as from my experience,
they are top notch. I lost the top lens cover
twice (before I finally
secured it with a strong piece of cord), each time they mailed a new
cover to me - free and no questions asked. This is something to consider
when making a purchase you plan to have many years to come
. Also,
this is a quality product, Cabela's would not put there name on it
otherwise.
I've shared the only negative things I've found - everything else is great!
Waterproof, clear/coated glass, and much lighter in weight than comparable
sized binoculars.
Hope some of this helps
Two Beards