Binocular experts, recommendations?

[JMapleton]

Man, a jean AND binocular snob, you're something else. My Nikon's are awesome for what I use them for and I consider them sharp and clear, was reading small signs from 500-1000ft away (est.) and bulkiness is not an issue since they're always on a tripod. Reviews on Amazon back me up, but I also don't look to spend $200+ on binoculars, so at my price point (<$125) how much better can I do than Nikons? Please share.

I will say, once you hit the $200 price point, the quality of binocs increases greatly. Nikon Actions, from my personal experience, I just think are awful binocs. You may like them, but you may not have much experience with different binocs.

This would be a much better alternative:
http://www.opticsplanet.com/vortex-...nAA2Q&ef_id=UX3WJAAAAF8Q8E56:20130430004413:s

These are a brand new pair from Vortex, which replaced their original Crossfires (which were not that great). The Crossfire II's are excellent. They would stomp all over anything under $200. And the warranty is far superior.

My everyday binoc is this one:
http://www.opticsplanet.com/vortex-viper-hd-10x42-roof-prism-binocular.html

Made in Japan. ED Glass. Metal framed eyecups. Excellent binoc.

 

[fralexandr]

yep, the vortex's are highly recommended for performance/price in lots of birdwatching forums.
the eagle optics shrike is also often recommended at the $100 price point

 

[fralexandr]

if you haven't bought something yet, woot has some vanguards on sale until may 7
http://sport.woot.com/plus/see-far-and-clear-with-vanguard-binoculars

 

[BrokenVisage]

I will say, once you hit the $200 price point, the quality of binocs increases greatly. Nikon Actions, from my personal experience, I just think are awful binocs. You may like them, but you may not have much experience with different binocs.

This would be a much better alternative:
http://www.opticsplanet.com/vortex-...nAA2Q&ef_id=UX3WJAAAAF8Q8E56:20130430004413:s

These are a brand new pair from Vortex, which replaced their original Crossfires (which were not that great). The Crossfire II's are excellent. They would stomp all over anything under $200. And the warranty is far superior.

My everyday binoc is this one:
http://www.opticsplanet.com/vortex-viper-hd-10x42-roof-prism-binocular.html

Made in Japan. ED Glass. Metal framed eyecups. Excellent binoc.

What would you recommend for a spotting scope under $200 with at least 20-60x mag and 80mm lens?

 

[JMapleton]

What would you recommend for a spotting scope under $200 with at least 20-60x mag and 80mm lens?

It's tough to find a usable one under $200 but the Celestron Ultima is usually very highly rated and is a steal at this price:

http://www.opticsplanet.com/celestr...-scope-package-52250-op-ultima-80-spotti.html

Includes tripod. That's just a great deal.

 

[BrokenVisage]

It's tough to find a usable one under $200 but the Celestron Ultima is usually very highly rated and is a steal at this price:

http://www.opticsplanet.com/celestr...-scope-package-52250-op-ultima-80-spotti.html

Includes tripod. That's just a great deal.

Thanks dood! I was looking at that exact model on Amazon thinking it was the one to get, glad I waited! Buying from OP came out to be $25 less than Amazon's AND it comes with a tripod, what a deal! Slickdeal worthy perhaps.