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milto

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keith
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Would like to buy a set of binoculars for birding any reccomendations budget max £300 thnx
 
Canon 10x30 IS
 
postcardcv said:
For that sort of budget have a look at something like Opticron Veranos or Nikon Monarchs, both are excellent bins for the money.
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Got a pair of Nikon Monarchs 8.5 x 45 a couple of months ago to replace my old Swift Ospreys that had fungus growing in them.

Monarchs are superb optics. Pin sharp bright images.
 
The only way is to go somewhere that will let you try a good few pairs for plenty of time. They have got to be right for you.

I suggest you go to a specialist shop. The only one I have used is In Focus (unfortunately their nearest shop is not near you), I spent ages trying out about 6 bins from about 1/4 of my price limit to a bit over my limit, though I didn't know which was which at the time). I eventually came away with a pair about 3/4 of my limit.

Some RSPB reserves have setups where you can try a few brands, though they will, I think, be a bit more limited than a shop as there is an RSPB own brand.

Some reserves do special days where various equipment is on display, but these are more likely to be in the spring or summer.

Also have a look at second hand. Most specialist shops carry some second hand stock which can be a bargain.

Dave
 
thnx for advice have ordered the verano hd 2012 model good price to
 
Well done Keith,
I was going to suggest the Verano as I have a pair ( 8X40) and I love them but I see you have ordered a pair, you won't be disappointed.
Ken.
PS, if you decide you would like a scope a bit later on I can recommend the ES80, also from Opticron
 
Hi - being a Nikon man spilled over onto my 'birding bins' purchase; so for anyone else reading up on this I have a pair of Nikon Monarch 12x56 which are superb, if a little weighty but can be comfortably carried using a harness, or you might even get on with the neoprene strap provided. Many will say that to go higher than 8x mag isn't best for birding; personally, and like so many things in these fine fora, it's down to the individual and as always if you can try out something before you buy it, then surely that's best! As for prices, this company has some very good (non 'January sale' prices) and I've used them myself: http://www.uttingsoutdoors.co.uk/Category/220/optics/?manuf=161

Good luck, and enjoy your new bins Milto!

Mike
 
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arclight said:
Got a pair of Nikon Monarchs 8.5 x 45 a couple of months ago to replace my old Swift Ospreys that had fungus growing in them.

Monarchs are superb optics. Pin sharp bright images.
Click to expand...

Another vote for the Nikon Monarch's.......I use the 10x42 which are great optically for mid range bins and are very light. Most reviews suggest "8x42" as the optimum for birding but I have tried both in the Monarh and find no difference in the weight.

Steve
 
milto said:
thnx for advice have ordered the verano hd 2012 model good price to
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The verano hd are an excellent binocular. I've compared these to the other higher spec Opticrons and they are up there in terms of view and build. If you got them for £300 then they are the bargain of the year.:clap:

Gerard.
 
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