On Tue, 24 Dec 1996, Teresa Michelsen wrote:

[snip..]

> 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

Teresa--

The Zeiss 10x40's would be my choice...those by Leica and Swarovski
while wonderful optics, are quite heavy..the Zeiss are lighter, but
still not light weight..

there is an interesting newcomer on the scene...seems like Swift
has decided to expand the Audubon series to include a new
pair of roof prism bins in 10x42 that weigh only 16 oz!! I have
not tried them, but the porro prism optics in the Swift Audubon
series are a bargain for the money..they're just klutzy and weigh
a ton.. I think I've seen prices on the Swift roof prism
Audubon models at +/- $500..

Has anyone tried these new Swifts out? Compared them to the
high end models?



>
> I am very interested in the stabilized models.

I'd bet the stabilized models are very heavy...Zeiss has
a pair of 20x for about $4k..but, hey..pro rate that out over
40 years of birding with incredible views..you could pay
for them in the money you save on Mariners and Seahawks
tickets.. since the teams are leaving town :)


Tom