Best binoculars

[jambo101]

I'm thinking of getting into bird watching and was wondering what to look for when it comes to a good binocular, i can afford up to $200
Thanks.

[Paladin]

1. See how you like Nikon optics.

I have a pair of 10X Nikon binocs which I'm very fond of; light-weight, easy to use, and very clear resolution. I believe you can find something within your budget in their product line.

If you come into an inheritance or some such thing, check out Swarovski's. I don't own any, but a friend of mine does, and those are the best binoculars I've ever tried. Images that are sharp to the point of near-painful. Very pricey, unfortunately.....

[Curmudgeoness]

2. I think it really will depend on what you want out of them.

I have a three binoculars---one is very lightweight but not the best optics that I carry around everywhere, even when I am not expecting to watch birds. Another is hefty and hard to lug around, but the optics are great, and I use them around the house or when I am in one spot. The third is in between, not too heavy but decent optics, and can go with me when I am out birdwatching and hiking. You should first think about what you want to do with them so you don't get the wrong ones for your purposes.

[XemaSab]

3. Check out Eagle Optics

http://www.eagleoptics.com/

If you want to call them, they'll be happy to talk to you about what you need and what your budget is.

What kind of birding do you mostly do? Are you looking at little birds in the trees, or are you looking at ducks far out on a lake?

This makes a difference as far as the magnification you want goes. 8s are better for the little birds, while 10s are better for the distant birds.

[jambo101]

4. Not doing any birding yet

As i'm recently retired the wife is wanting to get me out more,as we both like the outdoors birding seems to be one logical option.
The binocs would be used for birding but will have to multi task for other forms of outdoor wildlife viewing..

[XemaSab]

5. Good bins are good bins

You can use them for birding, for ball games, for other forms of wildlife watching, for what have you.

[jambo101]

6. Thanks Xema great link