Hi folks, for Christmas this year I have asked for just one thing - a
binocular upgrade. I have a very nice, small pair of Zeiss 8x25's, but it
is often a bit dark and I would like a pair with better light-gathering
capability. I have searched through the Tweeters archives and found
discussions on scopes and mid-range binoculars (under $300), but not what I
am looking for. I would like to ask your advice on a few things, since the
amount of information available is somewhat overwhelming and few stores have
a wide selection compared to what is available mail-order. We are looking
in the $700 - $1000 range. Here are my preferences:

1. Lightweight and streamlined (very important)
2. Excellent quality optics with good light-gathering ability (have been
looking at 30-50's)
3. Magnification 8-12
4. Good near-field focus
5. Weather-resistance and rubberized exterior

I am very interested in the stabilized models. I have only seen one in a
store, priced about $1000 (7x35). The positive effect when I tried them out
was really significant and surprising. However, for that price, the optics
weren't quite as good as some of the others (e.g. 8x45's). There didn't
seem to be any models that combined the wider lenses with image
stabilization. The salesman ventured the thought that the image
stabilization made up for the difference, that most people can't make best
use of the optics in the high-priced models because they can't hold them
steady enough to see the details that you can see with a stabilized image.
I'm torn between the two. Any thoughts on 1) brands/models that meet the
above criteria, 2) better optics vs. image stabilization, and 3) mail-order
vs. what can be found at Tall's or other camera shops you know of in the
Seattle area?

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide!

Teresa Michelsen
tcmnem at halcyon.com