Buying Binoculars

[Alan Rider]

Hello

I am interested in a new pair of binoculars since my Nikon pair has lost an eyecup that seems impossible to replace...

I'm sure we all could tell the difference between the ultra high end binoculars and the ultra low end sets.  But, how do the mid range binoculars compare to the high end sets?

On-line binocular reviews seem to be all over the map with little consensus. 

All feedback is welcome! 

Alan Rider

Mount Auburn

[Mark Vaughan]

Not on commission or referral bonuses but Vortex are my go-to. Unconditional lifetime guarantee. My pair did not do well in swimming classes when the canoe capsized. No questions asked and prompt repairs. Can’t recommend highly enough. Mid range pricing and very good optics. Excellent after sale service. Based southwest of Madison, Wisconsin. 

Mark

Sent from my iPhone

On Feb 2, 2026, at 12:46 PM, 'Alan Rider' via IBET - Illinois Birders Exchanging Thoughts <ilb...@googlegroups.com> wrote:



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[Lois P]

Hello, I also have Nikon binoculars and have had (and I'm currently having) problems with the eye cup. They have a 25 year warranty. Nikon has replaced the eye cup twice and even sent me brand new binoculars free of charge. That said, my husband bought Vortex binoculars and he loves them (although they are heavier than the Nikon's). I don't think I'd buy Nikons again. My current binoculars are on their way to Nikon for repair as I write this!  Lois

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[Chuck Berman]

I can highly recommend the Althon Midas 8 x 42. It is ridiculously priced at $225 (it was $240 last month on Amazon and it is terrific. I am in Arizona for two months and mistakenly left my Leica Ultravid ($2500!) at home. I bought these and for the money and they are about as good as the Leica. 

https://a.co/d/deYDy1h

Enjoy

Chuck Berman

Green Valley, AZ (Oak Park)

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[Gary Jahnke]

I also can vouch for Vortex's service.  Mine had a focusing knob issue (due to my being pretty rough on my stuff).  They repaired, no questions.  Sent in on 10/28; received back on 11/10 - I thought that was really quick.  Oh, and great optics for the money!

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[Michael R Stein]

another vote here for vortex...I also went from Nikon to Vortex and am extremely happy

[Jimf142]

Take a look at the The Wirecutter Reviews. You need not spend a huge amount. We are very happy with our Athlon 10x42ED binos

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James Fuerstenberg

205 W. Fremont St.

Arlington Heights, IL 60004

847 217 0946

[ferdyo...@comcast.net]

Ditto. Love my 8x42 Vortex field glasses.

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[Lois P]

Hi, Lois again. I'm sorry, I was mistaken. My husband has a Vortex Scope and Zeiss binoculars, both of which he is very happy with. Sorry for the confusion! Zeiss binoculars are pricey however. My husband figured these will probably be the last binoculars he has to buy so that was some of his justification in buying that brand :)

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