Which Bino to Buy?

[acnewman55]

Looking to buy a pair of binos for scouting the highcountry (east of crest) this summer.

I think I've settled on a 10x40 or 10x42

All the advice I see is don't skimp on optics.

My primary questions are how important is it that they are water/fog proof?  Obviously this is the PNW but I only plan to hunt the dryer side of the state at this point.  Can I cut the corner here and spend a little less?

I've already decided I'm not interested in paying the extra $ for a cool camo pattern, black will work fine for me.

Any other specific details that I should look for, or avoid?

What brands/models do you use/prefer?

Trying to keep the list below $250

Thanks!

[Skyvalhunter]

Have you went to Hooked on toys and tried some out and talked to a couple of their experts?

[jrebel]

For your price range you need to look at Vortex, Bushnell (legend HD), Nikon Monarchs.  I personally would vote for them in this order (only cause I love my Bushnell and have not like my Nikons). 

1.  Bushnell
2.  Vortex
3.  Nikon

Good Luck

[Sliverslinger]

Waterproof/Fog proof/ shock proof is imperative. The last thing you want is to be be on a hunt and have your glasses fog up and be worthless for a day or two - and it will happen if you go with cheap stuff. In your range I would look on Ebay for some used Leupolds. That way if there is a problem you can send them in to be fixed for free. Plus you should be able to get some decent glass if your patient. at $250 you're not gonna find a whole lot of great stuff brand new.

[hambone]

Leopold's 10x 42 Arcadia's bought a pair this past winter good glass lifetime warranty cant beat that

[stickbuck]

Leopold's 10x 42 Arcadia's bought a pair this past winter good glass lifetime warranty cant beat that

I bought the same binos and they're great for the price. I love the clarity.

[jrebel]

All bushnell, nikon, leupold and vortex have lifetime warranties......Vortex being one of the best (from what I hear).  You should really look through all bino's before purchasing.  If you are ever in the Wenatchee area let me know.  I have Bushnell Legen (non hd) and Swarovski...you can compare.  Then you can look at High Mountain and compare vortex.  See which ones you like. 

[bowhunterty]

Check out Virtex Diamondback 10x42s. For the price u will be surprised.

[Boss .300 winmag]

I like my monarchs, but have yet to get a look thru vortex.

[Bob33]

"You should really look through all bino's before purchasing."
That is the best advice anyone can give you. There are several models under $300 that should work well but only your eyes can tell you what you will like best.  Don't rule out 8x models either.

[Karl Blanchard]

I second the vortex diamondbacks!  Best glass in that price range hands down!

[Smossy]

Vortex Diamondbacks 10x42 ! Cant beat a lifetime unconditional warrenty. And the product is just simply, amazing.

[whacker1]

http://www.zen-ray.com/shop/binoculars/zrshd.html

[Swannytheswan]

 

I love my zen ray vista's and if you have the extra cash to go for the HD I am sure it is worth it. They have some nice glass!

[hunting4sanity]

I've got Bushnell, Nikon and Vortex, I'd recommend looking very seriously at the Vortex Diamondbacks.  I've got Vortex Viper binos, but that won't fit your price range, my son has the Diamondbacks and they are impressive.