Binoculars and Spotting scopes
Not sure if this is the right place for this, so if not, please re-direct me.
I have a pair of Helios 8x42 binoculars which I've had for many years and are fine. Although I think they may have developed a fault, so I'm interested in what others use.
Secondly, a couple of years a go I bought a relativley cheap spotting scope for a trip to the Isle of Mull. It's a Barr and Stroud scope. It's ok, but I find that it only really works well on 20x magnification.
I've read many reviews and many 'Best buy' publications, but every one has a completely different list, with rarely the same models being listed.
So I'm interested in real world experiences of both binoculars and scopes.
I'm fully aware of the likes of Swarovski and their reputation, but are way out of my budget. Probably looking at the £300-£400 mark or thereabouts, so any help will be most appreciated.
Gary
You can get a great pair of binoculars for the price you mention. As others have said, there is no substitute for trying before you buy and to do that you need a good optics shop. In the region we have the Birder's Store in Worcester run by experienced birders (and club members). They'll hapilly sort out great binoculars in your budget and let you try them out outdoors. Alternatively, if you happen to do a trip to north Norfolk, there is an optics shop at Glandford called Cley Spy, near the wonderful Cley Marshes. (Note, their shop at Cley Marshes itself is much smaller, so go to the proper store nearby). They will also let you try out optics at the back of the shop and they also have a wide range of good makes and will work to your budget. I'd recommend the nearer Birder's Store as it's easier to get to if you need further advice or support.