Some advice please?

[twintin]

Hi Folks

my wife has asked me to get here some binoculars for our holiday in about 4 weeks. They have to be small enough to fit into a smallish handbag (my celestron 10x50 are too big) and not too expensive. They will be used for general viewing and by me for a bit of stargazing if it's dark enough at sea Any advice on what to buy here and where from much appreciated.

Thanks

Mark

[hobsey]

How about these? 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0001M3612/1944

As recommended by Steve Tonkin http://binocularsky.com/binoc_about.php

I have the 10x50 version and they are very good.

[twintin]

They look good but think they will still be too big @ 182mm long

[BinocularSky]

These any good for you? http://stargazerslounge.com/index.php?/topic/204416-Vortex-Raptor-6.5x32

On the batphone, so expect weird autocorrect

[twintin]

The Raptor is a possibility, although perhaps a bit pricey for what she wants. Anymore?

[BinocularSky]

If you really want compact, and want to spend less, how about the Vega 8x25?

[twintin]

They're a possibility.  I have seen a pair of these Pentax 8-20x 24 UCF Zoom on tinterent but have no idea if they are any good or not, any thoughts or should i just discount them and stick to a single magnification pair?

 

[twintin]

Has anyone tried the 8x25 trail finder III they look like a possibility?

[BinocularSky]

 I have seen a pair of these Pentax 8-20x 24 UCF Zoom on tinterent but have no idea if they are any good or not, any thoughts or should i just discount them and stick to a single magnification pair?

 

Avoid zoom binoculars. The end.

Has anyone tried the 8x25 trail finder III they look like a possibility?

Haven't tried them, but the T3 range has a reasonably good reputation. Just check the returns policy in case you don't like them.

[twintin]

Ok, so after trawlling around for a couple of days i think i'm set on these (best price £55 from cemeraland cardiff)

Opticron TRAILFINDER T3 8x25 Compact Binoculars  http://www.cameraland.co.uk/opticron-trailfinder-t3-compact-binoculars

unless anyone knows any reason not to that is? All advice gratefully recieved

Thanks

Mark

[astronymonkey]

Ive used the pentax 10x21ucf ( I think thatsmthe model number) for many years and they are a great pair of travel bins. Light and small with a very clear image and are much better than some of the cheaper mini binoculars ive tried.

[twintin]

Took the plunge and ordered the Opticron 8x25 Trailfinder T3. Should be here some time next week. Good reports generally all over the interweb so i'll let you know how we get on when they arrive.

[twintin]

Quick update: The bins arrived earlier in the week so had a quick peek through them. First impressions are very good, the rubberised shell is very comfortable in the hand. The twist up eye cups are superb and the ease of focus is excellant. I compared the view to my 10x50 celestron up close pair and I have to say the view through the opticrons is much better. Brighter image even though less aperture less ca and generally better all round. For a small pair of chuck in the pocket/handbag bins they are excellent and my wife is very happy with them as am I.