Binocular recommendations

[Angus]

I was told once that the human eye has a pupil around 5mm in diameter, and to get the most light-gathering ability out of binoculars, you want to come as close as you can to that size.  You're supposed to divide the bigger number (objective lens?) by the smaller, so 8X42 come out as 5.25, plenty big to give you the max low light capacity.  I was impressed with my cheap Alpens until they fell out of my pack onto the carpet, and the objective lens popped out!  Next time, I'll be spending the bucks for a decent set of binocs!

[Fletcher]

Nothing defines "compromise" like binoculars and I've not found one pair that covers all my wants.  A good 8x40 comes pretty close to balancing it all, tho.  If you don't mind a little extra size and weight, a porro prism design will get you more glass for your dollar.  Ten power is about the most that you can hold without it shaking too bad.