Birding Binoculars, recommendations please..

[sparker]

Good afternoon,

I need a new pair of binoculars, 10x42 or 10x50. I have been looking at the Hawke Nature Trek, can anyone recommend anything else? My budget is £150.

Thank you

 

[john.margetts]

I would recommend London Camera Exchange who stock a good range of binoculars (at least in Lincoln they do) and will let you handle them and look through them. Handling is more important than the optics to a great extent. Also, there is very little to break in binoculars so if there is no visible damage in a second hand pair, they will be as good as a new pair.

 

[Retune]

Check out the binocular forum on Birdforum for a huge amount of knowledgeable advice:

https://www.birdforum.net/forumdisplay.php?f=112

 

[Box Brownie]

I think RSPB Rainham Marshes has a binoculars try & buy.

Not too far from you.....maybe phone to check what makes etc to try out???

 

[sparker]

Thanks all. I have just been told there is an "optics day" at Hanningfield Reservoir next Sunday, the 1st, so I,ll be heading that way.

Thanks again.

 

[Mag1cp2x]

Meade binoculars are an absolute bargain in my opinion and within you budget.

 

[granddad john]

for the RSPB range. Also don't bother with 10*50s, the modern roof prism 8 or 10*40s are fine and a lot lighter to carry round. Even the 8*30s are bright enough for normal use if you don't want to be out in the gloaming But yes go and handle them and see what you like best.

 

[GeeJay57]

This might be worth a read:
https://procular.co.uk/choosing-binoculars-for-bird-watching-the-complete-guide/

And these would be on my list to try in your budget range:
https://www.cliftoncameras.co.uk/Opticron-Discovery-8x42-Binoculars

 

[Mr Pid]

Meade binoculars are an absolute bargain in my opinion and within you budget.

I can only second this - I bought a pair on recommendation and they are fantastic.

Slight CA at very long distance but unless you want to pay well into four figures you wont get better for the money