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Cheap binoculars for friends and family (lemmy.world)

submitted 1 day ago by Foreigner@lemmy.world to c/birding@lemmy.world

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I have a number of people around me who are curious about birding and would like to give it a try. I want to encourage more people to get into the hobby by taking them on outings. However, the vast majority don't have their own binoculars and aren't going to purchase any before trying it out. I have my own single set of binos but no spares to lend. Renting isn't an option where I live so I'm looking to buy at least a couple of sets for this purpose.

I'm sadly not made of money so they'd have to be well under 75eur each. I'm not looking for amazing performance, but at least a brand that's trustworthy enough and has a good enough reach for absolute beginners to use in like city parks.

I've bought a couple of dirt cheap 10x42s (I'm talking under 20eur) online but find they're a bit too dark and the chromatic aberration makes them unusable. Ideally I'd find something that's a step up from that. I think 8x42s are a good sweet spot.

The second hand market is very limited here, I'm seeing second hand options like used Nikon P3s somehow being sold at higher than market price, or binoculars that are extremely heavy and look almost 100 years old but still expensive.

Anyone have any suggestions?

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[–] dual_sport_dork@lemmy.world 2 points 1 day ago

I have a pair of Vortex Diamondback 8x42s, the DB-214. They're well outside of your budget but I can attest to the optical quality. Their cheapest 10x28 model TRI-1028 lists for $130 USD to might just slide in under the wire for you if you can find a pair.

[–] SomeAmateur@sh.itjust.works 3 points 1 day ago (1 children)

Have you ever concidered a monocular? They are more budget friendly and easier to carry around. I know binos are generally a better viewing experience but you'll still get magnification and don't have to worry about adjusting them to get it just right for both eyes

[–] Foreigner@lemmy.world 2 points 1 day ago (1 children)

Thanks, I hadn't thought of monoculars but that might work. I've used thermal monoculars before so I know eye fatigue can be a concern but if it's for short trips I can see it working for absolute beginners. Any particular brands you think might be cheap but reliable?

[–] SomeAmateur@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 day ago (1 children)

I've had good luck with vortex but I've never tried their monoculars before

[–] _haha_oh_wow_@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 day ago

Vortex makes good optics in general, so it'll probably be a safe bet.

[–] _haha_oh_wow_@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago)

Maybe something used and entry level from a decent company like Vortex or Nikon? Check second hand markets like eBay or Craig's List.