Newbie considering Apollo HR 22x85 Bins

[Orion123]

Hi folks, I'm new to all of this so please make allowances for daft questions I'm considering getting a bit more serious now with my observing. I've been using a good set of 10x50s up to now (swift aerolites) and am thinking of taking a step up to something bigger. I've looked at the Strathspey 20x90 and the Apollo HR 22x85 (kind of narrowed it down to one of those two really) Can anyone give any advice, comments, reviews, etc... I know that there is a difference in price, but thats not always the best indicator, much better to talk to people that know!!

I really like the idea of doing most of my observing with binocs, but am also considering a small maksutov for planetary and moon obs, again, any advice, comments, reviews etc...

Thanks to all in advance Cheers Mark

[Tribal-Wolf]

The Strathspey 20x90s are probably better for astronomy field of view wise. The biggest problem is both will really need a tripod and then looking at anything high above you becomes a pain in the neck, literally.

[Orion123]

Thanks Chris, I have a Kennet Engineering (Benbo) heavyweight

tripod, so that bit shouldn't be a problem. Are Apollos and the Strathspey of comparable quality optically, build, etc...

Cheers Mark