Optics

Hovannes · Post by **Hovannes** » 29 Jul 2024, 14:52

So there I was, cleaning out a hall closet so a contractor could access our attic to blow in more insulation, when I discovered two pairs of long lost binoculars, a 7x50 and a 7x24 neither what I'd consider mission appropriate for observing a mountain climber (my son) on El Capitan, a 4,000 ft granite wall in YNP.
I'm wonder what you knowledgeable folks would suggest. I have nothing against spotting scopes, if that matters but economy does matter quite a bit.
Any suggestions as to power, field of view, that sort of stuff?

Post by **Biff** » 29 Jul 2024, 22:13

One word: Vortex.

Great glass, UNBEATABLE warranty. Bass-Pro is your friend. Tell `em I sent ya.

FredS · Post by **FredS** » 30 Jul 2024, 06:11

I started with a cheap pair of 8x42 Tascos someone gave me for Christmas when I was about 14 years old. I still have them and it's set me up for a life of settling for cheap optics. Lately I've bought a couple pairs of compact models (Bushnell and Simmons) to keep at the cabin and in the vehicles. They're all subpar so I suppose I'm issuing a cautionary tale rather than a positive one like Biff.

Bloodhound · Post by **Bloodhound** » 30 Jul 2024, 08:57

I have always settled for inexpensive binos and spotting scope. 2 years ago we went to Oregon to watch the whales and before the trip, I started research on "Best bang for the buck" so that I could take good glass on the trip. I discovered the Bausch and Lomb 28-1042. A very nice set of glass if you can get a pair that were made in Canada. But these are only available on the used market, as they are out of production. (I found 2 pair on the bay and bought them both one for my truck and one for my son in law)

I also discovered the Nikon "Aculon"...Even better than the B&L. I took both the B&L and the Nikon to Oregon and used them both. I really like them both, but the Nikons have better glass and are easier to adjust, the B&L are sturdy & tuff as nails.

The resort where we stayed in Oregon is on the beach and they have Nikon Aculon 8x42 binos in every unit. I asked the manager about them, and he said that after a bunch of research, they were the best glass for the money and they had tried several brands and models before settling on the Nikons.

I like the Nikon "Aculon" and have it in 10x42 and 8x42. I found mine on line for less than $80 a pair.