Good Optics For Only An Arm - Best Binoculars For $1000 Or Less
Optics is our second most popular subject, according to the stats, and one that generates most of our email. And since it is "Cyber Monday" I thought I would provide some holiday gift ideas.
One of our subscribers recently sent in a comment about good binos that don’t cost an arm and a leg. OK, normally we do not consider cost as a determining factor in our favorite gear. We want the best gear regardless of how much or how little something costs. However, I understand the sentiment behind this guys request because great optics are expensive. There are hardcore outdoorsmen out there that either can’t spend $2600 for a new set of Leica Duovids or won’t just out of principle. That’s cool, I can understand that and can offer some recommendations for satisfactory glass that will only cost you an arm.
I would like to point out that two of the binoculars I mentioned in my “World Class Glass” post on 9/24/07 retail for right at or under $1000. They are the Nikon Monarch ATB 10x56s ($399) and the Pentax DCF ED 10x50s ($1049).
There are a couple hundred binoculars in the $1k or less class and there is a lot of junk so you have to be careful. Here is the best of the bunch. Bushnell Elite 10x50 ($1199), Bushnell Elite 8x43 ($979), Pentax DCF ED 8x43 ($899), Pentax DCF SP 8x43 ($599), Nikon Premier LXL 8x42 ($1299), Pentax DCF SP 8x32 ($799), Swarovski SLCNew 8x30 ($999) and the Leupold Katmai 6x32 ($299).
For situations where you need super light and handy, try the Zeiss Conquest MiniQuick 5x10 T ($115) and Zeiss Design Selection 6x18 T P ($249) monoculars. For more magnification, try the Nikon Monarch 12x56 ATB ($429) or the Action Extreme 16x50 ATB ($189).
Same grade glasses from different manufacturers don’t fit everyone the same. Choosing the right pair is important and can be a very personal thing so take the time to try as many out as you can. All of the models mentioned in this post can be purchased on line from Eagle Optics or directly from the very knowledgeable folks at The Outdoorsmans in Phoenix.
Thanks.
One of our subscribers recently sent in a comment about good binos that don’t cost an arm and a leg. OK, normally we do not consider cost as a determining factor in our favorite gear. We want the best gear regardless of how much or how little something costs. However, I understand the sentiment behind this guys request because great optics are expensive. There are hardcore outdoorsmen out there that either can’t spend $2600 for a new set of Leica Duovids or won’t just out of principle. That’s cool, I can understand that and can offer some recommendations for satisfactory glass that will only cost you an arm.
I would like to point out that two of the binoculars I mentioned in my “World Class Glass” post on 9/24/07 retail for right at or under $1000. They are the Nikon Monarch ATB 10x56s ($399) and the Pentax DCF ED 10x50s ($1049).
There are a couple hundred binoculars in the $1k or less class and there is a lot of junk so you have to be careful. Here is the best of the bunch. Bushnell Elite 10x50 ($1199), Bushnell Elite 8x43 ($979), Pentax DCF ED 8x43 ($899), Pentax DCF SP 8x43 ($599), Nikon Premier LXL 8x42 ($1299), Pentax DCF SP 8x32 ($799), Swarovski SLCNew 8x30 ($999) and the Leupold Katmai 6x32 ($299).
For situations where you need super light and handy, try the Zeiss Conquest MiniQuick 5x10 T ($115) and Zeiss Design Selection 6x18 T P ($249) monoculars. For more magnification, try the Nikon Monarch 12x56 ATB ($429) or the Action Extreme 16x50 ATB ($189).
Same grade glasses from different manufacturers don’t fit everyone the same. Choosing the right pair is important and can be a very personal thing so take the time to try as many out as you can. All of the models mentioned in this post can be purchased on line from Eagle Optics or directly from the very knowledgeable folks at The Outdoorsmans in Phoenix.
Thanks.
Wade Nelson
Editor
Sorting through the fads and fashion of the outdoor equipment industry to identify and promote the very best wilderness gear for high end recreational users, backcountry professionals and government agencies.
Hardcore Outdoor is dedicated to those who won't or can't turn back.
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