I took my Swift Ultra-Lites 8x42 roofs into the store where I bought them. One of the eyecups had gotten loose -- turns out a small set screw needed to be replaced. Instead of sending them to Swift, the owner found a screw that fit and fixed the problem. I spent more for my binocs at this stor than I would have at an online store or even a big sporting goods chain, but I know the owner would have shipped the binocs himself if they had needed to go to Swift.
The store is basically an Astronomy store, but Frank has a pretty good selection of birding binos. I tried out the new Vortex Diamonback and Viper 8x42s. The Diamondbacks are nice, especially for the price. Good optics and seem to be sturdy. I would recommend them for an entry-level binocular. It's amazing what can be manufactured for the price these days.
The Vipers are truly excellent. I was very impressed by the optics and mechanics. Very sharp "easy" view. You just look through them and go "ah". Basically my reaction reserved for Leicas and Swaros. In fact, Frank had a pair of Leica 8x42s there and I compared the two. (These Leicas are not the newest -- probably the model just before the newest). Basically, I think the Vipers are comparable optically -- which I'm sure will ruffle some feathers. The Leicas felt more solid, and I am sure that they are better constructed, but I really think that optically, the Vipers are just as good. Maybe the newest Leicas are better -- I can't say.
The Vipers go for $500 online.
Frank didn't have the new Vortex Furies though. I really want to check those out. I think their appeal will be to people who like odd size configurations with some slightly different specs from other mid-priced binos.
Oh yeah, the Celestron Ultima porro-prism 8x40s that Frank still has still blow me away. Sharp, bright -- quality feel -- the same bino as the old Swift Ultra-Lite (non-WP). I used to have a pair. Orion still sells a similar model. All alloy construction. Not rugged or waterproof, but it brings back good memories.
Thanks for the report. I have the Vipers, but have not tried other high end binoculars, so am interested in others' reactions. Almost all the reports and reviews I have seen agree that they represent one of the best price/performance bargains out there.
Jim
Vortex binoculars, especially the Viper, seem to be getting some very good reviews in the USA. The specs sound good, apart from the field of view for the Viper which is rather unimpressive compared to the offerings from the 'big four'. The Razor and Fury appear to have much more competitive fields of view. The 8x32 Fury sounds a very interesting binocular to me, although I gather it doesn't have XD glass like the Viper?
Ron