Hi all:
Scopes are great for "planned" birding outings but oftentimes much opportunistic (and good) birding is done while out and about, and through bins because my Kowa 821 is just too big to tote around . While I enjoy going to the reserves etc with my scope, I am finding that I am doing a lot of birding while out and about generally, e.g. walking or biking along a nearby estuary where I live. Yes, there are great lightweight scopes/tripods/monopods around, but I don't think I would get the value out of a second "lightweight" scope purchase, but I would consider getting another pair of bins.
I am sure lots of other birders have this dilemma. Can anyone recommend a good allround binoculars for this purpose ? It would need to be fairly compact (but not necessarily so as I usually carry a rucksack), good optics and excellent magnification (10x) because much viewing done at estuary shore. I have seen the Leica Duovid (8x and 12x) - in theory should be ideal but looks a bit gimmicky.
Thanks for advice.
Niall
Hi Niall - I'm no "techie", but I'm still thrilled with the binoculars I bought when an elderly uncle sent me a wonderful surprise cheque. I bought the Canon - Image Stabilizer ones. I'll quote what is written on them, though it doesn't mean a lot to me: 15x45 IS UD 4.5º.
I spent a long time agonising over the choice between 12X and 15X. The 15X are a bit heavy, and I still occasionally wonder if it might have been better to have the 12X. Of course if you don't have a generous uncle you may well feel they cost too much, but they really are amazing.
quote:
Leica Duovid (8x and 12x) - in theory should be ideal but looks a bit gimmicky.