I know, another optics thread

[thinkingman]

I agree on the meet and compare.
Did something similar on iFish.
I'd be on board.
Tie it into another event, even.

[fishseeker]

I just ordered the Vista 8x42. I have been using a set of Minolta compacts for 19 years and figured it was time for a new set. My Minolta's were not armoured and clanked bad. So I cut some elk hide and used contact cement to glue it to the bino's, That was 18 years ago and is still stuck like the day I put it on,LOL.

[Intruder]

Never looked through Zen-Ray so no opinion there. 

I've looked through tons of Leus and Nikons and in that 300$ range I think they are a great value.  Optical quality is very close.... too close for my eyes to see major differences.  I would suggest trying them outside in low light.  Also, don't discount the feel of the binos in your hands and how they fit your eyes and face.  Sometimes that can be dramitic and be a real significant decision making point in your purchase.

[fishseeker]

Got my Vistas today,Havn't had time to really look though them but like what I see so far!