Any high-end binocular users out there?

[wontonny]

I was at Ritz camera the other day and I tried out some mediocre Nikon binoculars. I looked through them and was amazed at how incredibly sharp they were. I asked the clerk how much they were and he said ~$60. I thought to myself, "Wow, those are only 60 bucks and they're that sharp. I wonder how much the really nice Leica and Zeiss ones are..."

This just fueled my GAS to get some really nice binoculars. I've come to the conclusion I lusting after the Zeiss 10x30 B T* Conquest binos.

Does anyone have any first hand experience with high-end binoculars to see if investing in a pair is worth the investment?

 

[JoeV]

You may want to peruse the binocular sub-forum over at Cloudy Nights astronomy forums. Lots of information about binoculars and astronomy, which may help you decide. If you're desiring binoculars for a much different use, like birding, you may want to look at some birding forums for information.

~Joe

 

[Nikon Bob]

The only thing I can say about binos is that you do not have to spend huge amounts of money to really decent results. I am easy on my gear and don't use them in downpours so I save a lot of money by not having to buy top end ones. I did quite a bit of research before I popped big bucks, for me that is, on a pair of general purpose ones. I prefer porro prism binos so saved a bit there too. There is a great amount to consider before buying and only you can decide what is right for you. As mentioned there are some excellent forms from which to research. There are some good reviews here http://www.holgermerlitz.de/ .

Bob

 

[David Murphy]

The country of origin is important in binoculars. German and Japanese models are generally the highest quality. Much of the Japanese production has been offshored, but there are still thousands of good vintage units around. Among the best bargains in German binoculars are the Zeiss Jena models from the former East Germany, no longer made, but widely available on the used market. Some represent the finest binoculars ever made. For new Japanese binoculars, check out the Orion Telescope (www.telescope.com).

 

[Spoks]

I have a Carl Zeiss 20x60 IS. I first got to try these when doing my military service, but could only afford to buy a pair many years later. I don't think that they are made any more. But they are still being used by both Norwegian Navy and Army. I also have a Russian 25x70 w/o IS which is far inferior regarding optical quality. Although I have several excellent Russian binoculars.