Thread: Entry Level Binoculars

Hey all, I have a mate who is in the market for an entry level pair of Binos. Under $1000.

Having only had high end binos myself for a number of years I am a bit out of the loop. What’s good bang for buck and go well in this price range at the moment?

Way better than entry level: https://tractoptics.com.au/10x42-binoculars

I have a pair of Burris Droptine as a spare pair and they are actually quite good.

Hamish

a plug for the Nikon 10x comapcts water proof compact light and good optics price wont break the bank either

One of my boys bought a pair of Vortex (not sure of the model). They punch well above their weight in terms of clarity and light gathering ability. He’s pretty happy with them - he’s had a couple of pairs of entry level binos and he reckons these are by far the best.

Have a look at german precision optics. GPO Passion range is a bit under $1k and ED range a bit over. I have a pair of ED in 32 and 42 and can't fault them for the price.

Been very impressed with the Vortex Diamondback HD's.

+1 for the Vortex, picked up a pair of Diamondback 10x42 and am quite happy with them. Pretty good quality and relatively inexpensive.

I'm very happy with my Steiner Observers. Made in Germany, $650 + shipping here: https://www.kiwibinoculars.co.nz/sho...observer-8x42/ (I got mine through @Sarvo but I don't think he stocks them any more).

I've only been able to compare them with Delta Forrest IIs and Swaro ELs. They were much better than the Deltas and gave the Swaros a run for their money.

https://www.optics-trade.eu/int/stei..._from_store=nz suggests comparable to the Diamondbacks.

I'm pretty tempted to bring in a set of these. Seems to be getting real rave reviews on the bird forums

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005...2-75eedecd9860

A question that could follow on from this. Are second hand bins worth a look?n

Bushnell Trophy Bone Collector model 10x42's have proven very good for the money (to my eyes). Bit heavy is the only caveat.

Originally Posted by asrobbie

A question that could follow on from this. Are second hand bins worth a look?n

Definitely. If not dropped or scratched, they should be as good as a new pair. Only other potential problem is if the seals are gone - the gas will have leaked out and they may fog up.

Buy from a reputable vendor (ie. most buggers on here) with a genuine reason for selling and you should be fine.

@stagstalker

These will probably go ok for $1k

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/marketpl...ing/5326353655

You should be able to get a good condition pair of Leica Trinovid 10x42 bins for less than 1k.

I sold a pair last year for $650. They are not hd glass but are solid performers.
About 2k new I think.

Older swaro SLC’s also.

Jus
T check the lenses for scratches from rough cleaning with toilet paper and dirty clothes.


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