Binocular review from Cornell Lab of Ornithology

[hutash]

We have had a few bino threads here, so I thought I would post the latest review from Cornell bird lab. The review is geared towards birders, but the info is pretty universal.

There are some really great binos out there for a very modest price. You do not have to spend 2-3K for good glass these days.

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/Page.aspx?pid=2674

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/Page.as...f0e0-303163653

[GeezerSteve]

Thanks for posting. No big surprises. "Clarity/Crispness" scores are pretty consistent with allbinos

"Overall feel?" Hmmmmm. Very subjective.

Not surprised that my 8x32 FLs got perfect 5.0 for clarity/crispness. (Only glass in test that got 5.0?) Best glasses I've ever used. Still available from EO for $1700 new/$1400 demo

How 'bout those Zeiss Conquest HD clarity/crispness scores @ $1,000? I recently looked through the Conquest HD 8x32. Fantastic glasses at any price.

Once again, Nikon Monarch 5 tops @ <$400

Harry's Monarch 7s got high marks

[Viva]

My old Sightron SIII (10X42) is tough to beat at its price-point. Very fine optics, better than Vortex, I think.

[GeezerSteve]

Better optics than the Razor HD and Viper HD? Hmmmmmm. Vortex Diamondback bins suck, better to go with Nikon at that price range. I notice the CA on the Vortex HD models -- my FLs have spoiled me -- but Vortex HD glass is crisp as hell.

Anyway, Vortex Razor HD is getting its ass kicked by Zeiss Conquest HD. The $1,000 bin game has changed, and Zeiss is leading the way.