Recommendations for compact binocular?

[yeedude]

I looking for a nice pair of 10 or 12 power compact binoculars and would like some feedback from any/all regarding what I should get and where I can get it for a good deal...

Here are the minimum specs that I've come up with thus far...

• 10x or 12x magnification with 25-30mm objective
• MUST be fully waterproof (i.e. nitrogen filled)
• Prefer rubber "armor" on the exterior
• Prefer smaller size envelope
• Budget price of less than $400; much less if possible!
  

The current candidate is a pair of 10x25 Zeiss "Pocket" binocs. I was also pondering a pair of Steiner Rocky's, but they're only listed as being "water resistant". The Leupold 10x28 was a consideration for a while until I saw how (relatively speaking) huge they are...

Thanks...

[This message has been edited by yeedude (edited 09-07-2000).]

 

[Owen]

They may be a bit large considering your other choices, and they're 8x, but the Steiner Military/Marine 8x30s meet all your other specifications. They are light for their size, and are very tough. I've had a pair for several years, and they always go with me when I head outdoors. They compare favorably with a friends larger Swarovski binos that he paid about $1000 for. They retail for $249, but I got mine at a gun shop for $189, and they may be cheaper on the internet. Not sure if they are available in a 10x-haven't looked at the Steiner product line in a while. Best I've seen for the price by far. Oh, weight is 17oz.

Check out this site www.bearbasin.com
They have Steiner, Burris, Leupold, Nikon, Swarovski, Zeiss, and Bausch&Lomb binos. At the bottom of the bino page they say "We'll meet or beat any competitors advertised price."

[This message has been edited by Owen (edited 09-07-2000).]

 

[Dave D]

The Zeiss compacts are impressive, very bright and clear image for their size, and waterproof. I went with the 20mm x 8X because 20mm didn't seem enough light gathering for 10X.