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Which would you recommend for a man wanting to spend less than $200 on a pair of 8 x 42 binoculars - Vortex Diamondback for $160 or Bushnell Excursion for $175?

Thanks for the advice.

I'd get the Diamondback. I have always been left somewhat apprehensive about the unit to unit build quality and variation I've seen in the Excursion. I've always thought the Diamondback was a very good binocular for not a lot of money.

Keep in mind the Diamondback prices are low right now as the new Diamondback will be out in a couple of weeks. It will be in the just over $200 range, but Vortex claims a 7% increase in light transmission with the new models, which will probably produce a field noticeable difference.

Doug has some Minox on sale at $140 that would be good too.

Those two look like good choices, but if it were me, I think I would go a different route. Doug has new, blemished Minox units, regular $289 for $159. Can't beat that, IMO. Check them out here:

http://www.cameralandny.com/optics/minox.pl?page=62167

Good luck with your choice.

Thanks for the recommendations. I ordered Minox BVs this afternoon. I narrowed it down between the Minox and Vortex. Sounds like Vortex has a better warranty. Should I be concerned about Minox warranty?

Thanks again.

No.

I have personal experience with the Minox warranty and I will tell you they were terrific to deal with. You have nothing to worry about.

FH

I believe the Minox warranty is 30 years. I have some Minox bino's and am thoroughly impressed.