For $300 and under I would suggest either the Nikon Monarch ATB's, Bushnell Legends, Wind River Cascades or some of the Cabelas brand models. All are priced at or slightly below $300 for the 10x42 models. The 8x magnification models are usually a few dollars cheaper.

All of the above are roof prism binocs that, I believe, are phase coated to increase light transmission and overall clarity.

Hope this helps.