Binoculars for Birdwatching

Glenn,

Have a read of this thread from earlier in the year


Cheers Kev

Large range here: http://www.ozscopes.com.au/binoculars/spotting-binoculars

Many of the camera makers (Nikon, Pentax, Leica, Canon, Tasco) make very good binoculars. I think you are on the right track regarding lightweight - from experience the bigger and bulkier they are the less use they will get. Make sure the lenses are multicoated for better image quality/brightness.

Happy hunting.

Glenn
I bought a pair of Zeiss 10X42 T*FL a couple of years back for about 2K.
They were recommended by a Victorian bird watching group. They are fantastic.
Zeiss is one of the better brands.
This model might be a bit big for the lady.Look up their web site and see if they make a compact size in a similar magnification.You could also do what I did and contact your nearest bird watching group.
If you buy a quality pair I am sure your wife will get a lot of enjoyment for a long time.
Jeff.O

Hi

I use 10x42 Nikon Monarchs. Some people use 12x.

Whatever you get make sure its "waterproof" (ie can handle getting rained on) and can focus in to ~ 2 or 3 metres.

Cheers
Greg

Gooday,
If you want extraordinary clarity have a look at Swarovski, not cheap but just so clear.
Cheers,
Boroma 604.

Gidday

Been a few trips with some twitchers ... the fireside debate about Nikon v Zeiss v Swarovski makes Toyota v Nissan, Engel v Waeco etc look like a spat in the kindy playground!

Cheers

Rocco

Steiner are also worth a look, 10 x 42 hunter around $500, very clear, worth a look;

http://www.berettaaustralia.com.au/steiner/new-hunting-10x42.html

Be sure to tell the kids not to look at the sun through the binoculars. It may not occur to them what the consequences are. Regards G.T.