Need New Bins!

[Humakt]

Like a complete and utter numpty I have dropped and broken my binoculars!
I'm not sure at this point if they are repairable, or if it's cost efficient to have them repaired (they weren't overly expensive).

So I may need a new pair, and I'm looking for recommendations.

I'm looking for a 10x or 12x magnification, with 30mm-40mm lens. Price, up to £120.

Any suggestions?

I am sure some of you will have a tremendous set of bins, that really are worth that extra amount, but the above are my parameters, so would really appreciate suggestions that fall within those.

Cheers.

[JonnyP]

These are not too bad for the price.. http://www.7dayshop.com/7dayshop-binoculars-10x42-waterproof-fogproof-binoculars-with-shoulder-case

[Peaks]

7day shop are very good for the money. I have them as a back-up pair.

Visionary range are good (have 10 year guarantee too), as are Luger.

As well as bins, I use an Opticron 8x32 monocular - really good, and saves space/weight

http://binocularreviews.northernoptics.co.uk/category/visionary-binocular-reviews/

http://www.ardmoor.co.uk/brands/luger-optik/binoculars?gclid=CMio3ZPBjLkCFfLItAodDAkAZA

hth

[rossbird]

I have a pair of Nikon sporter 1 8x36 you could try if you like, they are in mint condition and well within your budget:)
I prefer 8 times as the give a brighter image than 10 or 12 times.

Tony

[happybonzo]

For 2nd hand, try http://www.kayoptical.co.uk/index.asp?view=used

[Humakt]

Thanks for the suggestions so far, chaps - much appreciated.

I've decided I may go for a pair of 12x25s. I've seen a couple of pairs I like the look of. I think my budget may be too low to get a decent pair of 12x35s, so may be better off getting a decent smaller pair than a cheaper larger pair.
I have a good pair or 50mm zoom focus bins for when needed, was just looking for a smaller pair that can be tucked into a pack for opportunistic 'spotting'. Think I may go with a pair of 12x25s. Was thinking of either these (a friend has a pair and I've used them so know they're good):

http://www.barska.com/Blackhawk_Binoculars-BARSKA_12x25_WP_BLACKHAWK_BINOCULARS.html

or these:

http://www.bestoptics.co.uk/shop/binoculars/premier/hawke-12x25-premier-oh-open-hinge-762836.html

Both are waterproof and fogproof and come in warry green.

Any other suggestions also gratefully received - pay day isn't for another couple of days yet...

[Bushwhacker]

Perhaps a spotting scope could be another option?

[Humakt]

Perhaps a spotting scope could be another option?

Already have one.

That's not what I'm looking for. I'll use a spotting scope or big bins if purposefully going spotting. I want a small pair to go in my bag or in a pouch on my hip when just out for a walk. I had a pair (16x32s) but they've broken. The 16x magnification was actually too much - hand shake and small field of view - so I want something with a slightly smaller magnification.

[David_JAFO]

hello,
Worth a browse BTW http://www.claritas-online.co.uk/binoculars
Regards
David :wink:

[Dan XF]

I got a compact pair from Argos a few years back for about £20 and my old company Cotswold do some good one for up to £50. They are designed for outward bound types and are selected for being light but tough. try the RSPB site as they often reduce their prices during sale times. It would seem that they stock modern prismatic types but the old and bold twitchers like the old fashioned type so they can't shift the more modern designs

[happybonzo]

I have a a very old set of Leica 8x20s. The light gathering properties of them are astounding. I used to have some Opticron 8x42 as my birding binos but upgraded to some Swarovski 8.5x42 when I got a tax rebate; again, remarkable in low light conditions

[Bushdoctor]

Suggest you take a look at Uttings.com they are doing some very good deals at present, more than 50% off.