RE: Who makes the best binocs for under $200?
 

Yes, the Monarchs are still available...and going strong from what I can tell. They are offered in 10x42 and 8x42. Cabelas has them for 289.99 and 299.99 respectively. Considering your earlier comments I would probably go with the 8x as well though I have to admit that I have not had a problem with the 10x's either.

RE: Who makes the best binocs for under $200?
 

Guys, off the top of my head I don't recall. I didn't go in looking for a specific model, so it wasn't in my head, the guy just said "try these minolta's" and I did.

I got them 2 years ago, if I get a chance to look at my hunting crap (I keep it in a storage shed) I'll let you know...

I'm sure there are other better designed/built binocs out there, but for the money, my eyes couldn't tell the difference for the intended purpose. They also are very bright in low light, some may be brighter, but these definitely get the job done easily.

RE: Who makes the best binocs for under $200?
 

I can’t recommend them yet because I don’t have them yet but I'm going with a pair of Eagle Optics brand from www.eagleoptics.com.

They are the "Denali" series, 9x32 for about $140.00.

Things I liked about them.
1. Compact in size
2. Fully multi-coated lenses
3. Twist-up eye cups rather than pull-up eye cups.
4. Nitrogen Purged
5. Waterproof
6. Tethered objective lens covers
7. Rain guard eye cup covers

I don't personally know anyone using them but I called around, St. Louis area, to all of the local "bird watching" shops that sell the Eagle Optics brand and they have all claimed the Denali's are their hottest selling model, quality and affordable. Not 1 of 4 stores had them in stock, on back order, so I'm ordering straight from Eagle Optics.

Toby