Hi folks,
I am back from a trip to Costa Rica where my guide used a Vortex Diamondback 8x42 - this triggered my interest in birding and in a first binocular purchase and I would be interested to have your recommendations on that.
What I want to use binos for:
- Hiking and travel
- Casual birding
- Safari planned for next year
I have read about several brands and models and it seems like the Vortex Diamondback (HD - 2016) would be a good choice for mid-range quality/price. I am open to other models suggestions however.
I have some hesitation in terms of format:
- Between 8 and 10: seems like 8 is to be preferred to avoid handshake but would it provide enough magnification for a safari or would 10 be better?
- Between 32 and 42: I would have a preference for a more compact model even if it compromises slightly with low-light performance (reason: easy to carry + small hands) - however from what I could read on this forum and elsewhere there are some concerns with the overall quality of 8x32 and 10x32 Diamondback (i.e., something odd with the view). I would not want to purchase a sub-par model compared to the 42.
Price is not a decisive factor - I simply would not want to invest over 300$ as I am just a beginner and expect my use to be casual at first.
As you know, the Diamondback come in different models: 8x32, 10x32, 8x42, 10x42...
It is difficult to find reviews online comparing all of these different models.
Would greatly appreciate your input on which model you believe would best fit my uses.
Many thanks
I am back from a trip to Costa Rica where my guide used a Vortex Diamondback 8x42 - this triggered my interest in birding and in a first binocular purchase and I would be interested to have your recommendations on that.
What I want to use binos for:
- Hiking and travel
- Casual birding
- Safari planned for next year
I have read about several brands and models and it seems like the Vortex Diamondback (HD - 2016) would be a good choice for mid-range quality/price. I am open to other models suggestions however.
I have some hesitation in terms of format:
- Between 8 and 10: seems like 8 is to be preferred to avoid handshake but would it provide enough magnification for a safari or would 10 be better?
- Between 32 and 42: I would have a preference for a more compact model even if it compromises slightly with low-light performance (reason: easy to carry + small hands) - however from what I could read on this forum and elsewhere there are some concerns with the overall quality of 8x32 and 10x32 Diamondback (i.e., something odd with the view). I would not want to purchase a sub-par model compared to the 42.
Price is not a decisive factor - I simply would not want to invest over 300$ as I am just a beginner and expect my use to be casual at first.
As you know, the Diamondback come in different models: 8x32, 10x32, 8x42, 10x42...
It is difficult to find reviews online comparing all of these different models.
Would greatly appreciate your input on which model you believe would best fit my uses.
Many thanks
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