There are a couple of lesser known Euro brands. One is called Optolyth. thier Alpin series is a lightweight porro design that has verry impressive optical performance. Rubber armour and price make this an attractive glass. I picked up some older 10x50 for 125 bucks. But there are newer ones that should be about 300 bucks at discounted prices. These newer ones have improved coatings and are more ergonomic. They are only splash proof, not completely waterproof. this has not been a prob for me. My hunting buddies were all ipressed with my optolyths even when compared to thier Swarovskis and leicas
Docter makes an excellent 8x42 roof prism binoc. Made in Germany, these can be found for under 500 bucks on ebay (new) Check out this review at
www.holgermerlitz.de/dialyt10x40.html
You can probably find a pair of the legendary Bausch & Lomb elite binos for 500 bucks or under. These would have to be used as B and L no longer make em. the later model ones are water proof. These are great glasses and have almost mythic status with bird watchers.
I was much impressed with the Cabela's Alaskan guide roof prism 10x's They are made in japan and in your price range.
Sighton SIII roofs are around 400 bucks and excellent glasses. (so is thier SII 10x porros and they are around 100 bucks! Thier rifle scopes are good too.
And don't forget the wonderful Swift audubons. Available in porro prism models, porro prism with ED glass and also roof prism models. From about 250-375 bucks. There is really no significant weakness in these binos. Decent field, eye relief, good weather resistance, reasonably priced. There is just something pleasing about the view through the audubons. Nice resolution up to about 80% of the field which is good for a wide angle glass.
I am a fan of Porro prism glasses over roofs. You get a better, almost 3 D view with good porros. A roof prsm bino is usually lighter and alway smaller than a similar Porro glass. But you will probably spend 2 to 3 times more for a comparable pair of roof prisms. But Porro prsm design has stagnated as the roofs are much more popular. this means you can find incredible deals on good late model usd porro glass!
Fujinon, Pentax, and nikon all make some good premium porros. Swarovski Habicht 7x42 are excellent and should be under 500 bucks if you can find em.
OK I talk too much but I am really into optics
okcmco