New Binoculars

[bohunter3]

Hi folks,
I need a little help and advise on purscasing a new set of binoculars. I pretty set on buying Steiner brand binoculars. What I need to know is what the different numbers mean; like 10x50 etc. I was looking at Cabelas and they have a new set that are 15x56. My friend says they would be too big and very hard to steady. I want to be able to glass out far, maybe as far as 800 yards. I am also looking for full size bino's, no mini ones. What the biggest you folkes would go with? My friend recomends 12x40's. This is going to be exspensive so I want to make sure I get it right. He in San Diego I dont know of any stores that carry this brand, so I have to mail order them.

 

[Kernhuntr]

Your'e friend is right about the 15x56. Without a tripod, you could never use them properly. However on the 12x50's I think he is just a little off. You will run into almost the same problem as the 15x56's. They, in my opinion are not that great for field use. With either one of these you will have a blur, or a shakey look to them.

Some may dissagree, but the most I go with are 10x. Sometimes even these can get shakey. I use 10x42's and find them to be just right for me. Personal preference. Some like 8x42's just to get a bit more clarity in field and or unstable conditions.

The first number in the equation is the magnifaction. 10x is ten times magnified.
The second number is the exit pupil. This is where you will get light gathering.

I guess it depends on what type of hunting you do. The 12x may suit you. I personaly don't know anyone that does any serious hunting with that power, but again it's personal preference.

If you are set on Stieners, try looking at The Sportsmans Guide. They have some great prices on Stieners. Here is a link.

Sportsman's Guide

Good luck.

 

[_droptine_]

This place has some good prices on Steiners as well
http://www.samplelist.com/

 

[butchigan]

SWIFT MAKES A NICE 8.5 X 44 HHS AUDUBON ,NOT SURE IF STEINERS MAKES THAT SIZE BUT YOU CAN GLASS ALL DAY WITH THIS SIZE.

 

[_droptine_]

Good point about the Swifts. Here is the link to a review of them:

http://www.betterviewdesired.com/audubon/audubon.html

They were compared vary favorably with the Swarovski 8.5 ELs. This guy who did this review really knows his stuff. There are a lot of helpful reviews and info on his site.