Looking for good, affordable binocs

[Susan Blansett]

A novice birder friend of mine is struggling with insufficient optics not meant for birding.  She's in the market for a decent, affordable pair of used binocs in good condition.  If anyone has a pair they'd like to sell, please email [e-mail].  Thanks!

[Gary Lefko]

Susan try eBay I found nice used pair fairly cheap. Gary

[Scott Severs]

Some popular affordable models include the Eagle Optic Rangers, and the Nikon Monarchs, all available in various sizes and powers. Often Amazon has used optics available too, just be sure that they can be returned if they are not up to snuff.

[Susan Blansett]

Gary & Scott, thanks for the good ideas. Will check 'em out.

[Tom]

Big fan of Eagle Optics, for the price. I have stepped up to 10X50- and it was worth every penny from the slight price diff, of 8X40 Ranger.

[John C Haycraft]

I'm in a similar position.  I wanted to upgrade from some 7 x 35 porros this spring before a birding festival, but I'm definitely on a budget.  My first choice was the Nikon Monarchs already mentioned, but they were just out of reach.  I finally bought a pair of Bushnell 8 x 42 Trophy XLTs from B & H Photo for $100.  I've been really happy with them, especially given the price.

[Susan Blansett]

John, just saw your response.  Thanks for the tip, I'll check out the Bushnells.

[Gary Lefko]

BTW don't let anyone tell you need $2,500 Swarovski's to go birding; I purchased brand new $49 Tasco New Sierra 12X50 Roof Prism Binoculars TS1250D from eBay.com--took them Crow Valley (38 species) and they were better than by $500 binos! :-)