Nice review. I posted a similar one on the 8x32s over on the Bowhunting Equipment Review forum a couple months ago. I really think that the Legends are one of the better mid priced roof prism binos out there right now. The only, somewhat, drawback I found with them is that model for model they are a bit heavier than similar models offered from other companies. Nothing drastic in my opinion but notable none the less.

The reason you saw such a drastic difference between the Barskas and the Legends is, primarily, because of the lens coatings. The Barskas are only full coated, meaning that every lens and prism surface receives at least one chemical coating to reduce glare and increase contrast and brightness. The Legends are fully multicoated, meaning all lenses receive multiple chemical coatings, as well as having the roof prism phase coated. Phase coating significantly improves brightness and contrast.

Great all around binocular both in terms of image quality and ergonomics. They felt like they would take alot of abuse. For the price they are a bargain.