The best binoculars for less than 300 dollars is without a doubt the Minox porro that was mentioned and if a roof prism is desired the Olympus Magellan EXWP I 10x42. I own both of these and the Olympus pair can hold it's own with binoculars costing 1000 dollars easily. This is not hyperbole, but the literal truth. They are made in Japan, fully multi-coated, phase corrected, water proof and built like a tank. An objective review of the Olympus along with objective ratings against other binoculars, as well as the Minox can be found at
www.allbinos.com. The specific review of the Olympus is at
www.allbinos.com/107-binoculars_review-Olympus_10x42_EXWP_I.html and the Minox at
www.allbinos.com/166-binoculars_review-Minox_BD_8x44_BP.html. Actually, the review is of the 8x44, but should give you some idea of what the 10x42 will offer. Both are excellent choices and excellent values. By the way, the Minox is made in Japan also.
