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My experience is that you will use binoculars more often than a spotting scope. Get a good pair of binos and look for a good rugged spotter [used if possible] as a compliment. Remember that the spotter will be used to identify points or the size of game at long distance so buy a spotter that is capable of counting points at let's say 400+ yds in fair weather. I just ordersd a spotter for my backpack after years of using binos.I ordered a kowa 66mm prominar that should be good enough for me.

You really need both- a good pair of binos and a good spotter. You find game with the binos, you judge game with a spotter.

For your budget, the older style 25x Leupold fixed power straight spotters are great and you can find them in your price range in the classifieds quite often. I just picked one up for $275 and it is in like new condition.

Bob

lucznik, Great find. It's about $25 less if you don't mind waiting for it to get back in stock at B&H Photo. I'd have to wait for Chiristmas money and saving to buy in this price range. I'm still leaning toward the 10x42 Legend Ultra HDs...and then I'll be closer to getting a spotting scope as well. Has anyone have comparisons of these to Elite, or some of the Nikons?

Also, I'm curious has an opinion on using a "doubler" (example: http://www.cameralandny.com/optics/bushnell.pl?page=bushnellelitedoubler) especially if you have used on in the field?

The problem with doublers is that they cut down on alot of light, and they tend to loose the image sharpness you must have with additional magnification. That's why very few use them. E

NTG
The older model- I have no experience with the newer model.

Fred

Thanks Royce.
Any one have experience with these: Vanguard Endeavor.

I played with the 10x42 version in the store last night and looked every bit as good as Monarchs and Leupolds. Store didn't have Busnell's to compare. These Vanguards will run $280 after rebate or $270 for the 10x40s. Seems like a pretty good deal for ED glass.

The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD's are ED glass and me and my son compared them to just about everything in their price range, including the Nikons and the Leupolds. They beat the Leupolds hands down and were slightly better in contrast and color rendition than the Nikons, IMHO. My son bought a pair last year and then my nephew bought a pair soon after using his.
Great glass for the money, in fact- great glass for twice the money in my opinion.

Bob

Thanks for that helpful report, Bob.
They are still on my list.

Get some switch power binoculars. You will have them with you and use them.

I got a couple of them and the Leupold 7X to 12X, in particular, are outstanding.

Do a search here on switch power and dual power binoculars.

Dual Power