Backcountry Binoculars

[Vaca Russ]

Team,

I'm joining Maverick on his search for Matthew Greene. I need a recommendation for a good pair of backcountry binoculars.

Thanks,

-Russ

[paul]

Well, I can't tell you much about GOOD binoculars since I can't afford those. But I do have experience with cheap and really cheap units, and I have found that there isn't much difference between the $60 8x21 minis and the $20 8x21's. Have used both successfully for route finding and wildlife spotting in the backcountry.

[dave54]

Price of binoculars is basically the quality of the optics. Cheap ones may have distortions, scratch easily, poor image in low light, etc.

Whether the price differential is worth the limitations is a personal choice. I paid over $300 for a pair of 12x50 and was not top of the line. Never regretted paying more for a good pair.

[larry1]

I agree with Paul's statement regarding "good" binoculars. REI has their own brand @ 8x17 for around $80 weighing in about 10oz.in a "compact" size. As with many REI products there is a comparison chart that shows the benefits, features and prices of the binoculars they stock.

[rlown]

And if you want a plethora of choices, check out Cabelas at:

http://www.cabelas.com/catalog/search/? ... ts&x=0&y=0" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Sticker shock hurts sometimes. I have a 8x25 waterproof from ages ago that i use (13.5oz). field of view of 315 at 1000 yds. I like them, but i don't usually carry them unless hunting. I also have a Redfield widefield 40x spotting scope.

The cabelas pointer will give you a good idea.

Russ

[maverick]

Like lenses for camera's, very good binoculars can run into the thousands, like
Leica's.

I don't know if your planning to use these on your future outings, for example
when your scoping out routes on your climbs. If yes, then some with decent
magnification, low weight, and sharpness is of importance in your selection process.

As Rlown pointed out Cabelas has a good selection, as does REI, but Bestbuy, Walmart
and others have them, read the reviews, and shoot for the best you can afford, whatever
you get, don't go for the very low end ones because they are worthless.

Read this article to understand the numbers: http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/binoculars.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[rlown]

I have a fundamental problem with justifying buying binoculars to search for someone who might not even be there. Happy to point at sites that offer them, but still... The search is way questionable because of the lack of evidence.

It's a noble cause, but that's all it is without proof he's in the area.

Russ

[maverick]

This thread is about "Backcountry Binoculars", and not whether there is evidence
to support Matt being in the Minarets, so let's please stay on subject.

[rlown]

the base thread was about Matt and Binocs. What is your point? Or split it.