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[Kristin Meredith]

I know we have hunters in the membership, maybe also bird watchers and even sailors may be using binoculars.  So I am seeking input.  I would like to get a pair so I can watch some of the wildlife going across the fields, maybe see some of the birds a bit better.  I know nothing about this product.

If I was willing to spend up to $250 could a get a decent pair or would I need to spend a lot more?  Any recommendations?

Thanks in advance.

[Canadian John]

 I have had several pairs of binoculars.. Generally speaking, the higher the cost the better the optics and construction. I my mind things to consider are: Heft-holding for prolonged periods. Field of view. Magnification fixed or variable.. Most important is clarity.Don't even think of trying them in the store and gaze at finite detail at different distances and light conditions..Water proof? service and warranty.. Would you be able to try at home and exchange if not satisfied??
 The Germans during the 2nd World war were able to distinguish the difference between diesel smoke and dust at great distances in the North African desert, with their LEITZ binoculars..

[urnmor]

There are a lot brands out there in all price ranges.  I have had Steiners which might fit your price range.  I now have a pair of Swarosvki that I purchased to replace my Steiners.  However, as Canadian John the higher the price the better construction and optics. I do disagree with his comment about not trying them in a store.  I think a place that sells outdoor hunting equipment like Bass World is a good place to start especially to get an idea on price, weight and even optics etc.  I would also ask friends to see if they own any and how they like them.  I would also determine what your primary use will be as a birding binocular is somewhat different then one used on the water.  Once you narrow down the brand and the style I would check the internet and see what is said about them.  For instance google birding binoculars and read what people have to say about them.

Good luck in your search

[yorkdude]

We have a pair of Bausch and Lomb legacy, I think they are 7x50, not sure though. We don’t use them often but on vacations etc. they have served us well for what we need.

[Mudflap]

This is what I use for hunting. https://www.cabelas.com/product/hunting/optics/binoculars/pc/104791680/c/104752080/sc/104217480/vortex-diamondback-binoculars/2290272.uts?slotId=3

You should definitely go to a store and try them. Yes the light wont be the same as outside but you will get a good idea on distance and field of view. The more power the harder to stabilize them. So make sure you can hold them stable. The other thing is warranty. The one I got is Backed by Vortex VIP unlimited lifetime warranty. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=108&v=NCx5-3qpMcw

Mudflap

[Old Smokey]

I have a pair of Vortex Diamondbacks that I really like. I don't recall what I paid for them but they could be in your price range. I don't know if you have a Wildbirds Unlimited in your area but they carry them.

[mowin]

Two different types of binoculars.  Porro prism , eye piece is not inline with the exit lenses.  More affordable,  but more bulky.  Harder to make dust and waterproof. 

Roof prism.. eye piece in line with exit lenses. More streamlined,  easier to make dust and waterproof.  More expensive.

I prefer roof prism because I'm carrying them around a lot. And a smaller package helps. I'd stick with a 7x40, to 10x40. Stay with a "40" or little larger. Explanation below

The " 7" is the magnification. The higher, the closer the object will appear. However the higher it is the harder to hold steady. The "40" is the size of the lens in MM. The bigger the lenses, the wider the field of view, making it easier to find the object. Also the wider the lenses, the more light they let in. Makes a big difference in the early morning and evening. 

You can get a very nice pair of vortex, Nixon,  or Leopold  for $250 or less

[Goosehunter51]

https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/leupold-bx-2-acadia-binoculars

I am a fan of Leupold, these should fit your needs.

[mowin]

https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/leupold-bx-2-acadia-binoculars

I am a fan of Leupold, these should fit your needs.

Those are nice.   And the life time warranty is great.

[Mudflap]

https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/leupold-bx-2-acadia-binoculars

I am a fan of Leupold, these should fit your needs.

Those are nice.   And the life time warranty is great.

They do have some Exclusions on the warranty.

Mudflap

[mowin]

Of course.  You can run them over with a pickup and try to warranty them.  Lol. But I've used their warranty a few times over the yrs on rifle scopes. Never had a issue.

[pmillen]

I've used 10×42 Leupold Pinnacles the past few years for hunting.  They do well.  I looked up birding glasses and was surprised that they're listed as this author's first choice, http://allbestbinoculars.com/leupold-pinnacle-binoculars/.

[ylr]

Would a spotting scope be an option? You could mount it on a tripod for stability.

[DE]

I’m not knowledgeable about these but I would think there are bird watching forums that match the expertise of PF in their area of interest and might even have product reviews. Just a thought after my first cup of bean this morning.

[Deebo1133]

Also a fan of the Leupold brand. I have a pair I use for hunting. Very good in low light, clarity, and hard to fog up.