Hi Jerold

I had (actually, still have) a pair of Swifts. Audubon HR 8.5 X 44 Model
430 ft at 1000 yds. They got me my first 3000+ world birds. They are
bright, have a good wide field and are quite sharp but not in the range of
Zeiss or Leica products. My cautions would be 8 or 8.5 X is enough. 10 X
can be great but you will pay the price in weight and the ability to hold
them truly steady. Mine were not waterproof or sealed. Twice they have
made it into the drink and more times than I can count they have fogged in
high humidity or rain. Also, I have shaken internal parts loose but have
gotten inside and reassembled them three or four times (and I can still see
through them!!). Having said that, I thought they were great but I always
carried a small back-up pair that are waterproof (sealed). I have used
them more times than I recollect and loaned them out almost as often.

I like the higher power but that is why I have a groove in my shoulder from
carrying a scope!

They say, "Buy the best because you will sooner or later." Try to sneak a
peek through everyone else's binos over the next few years while you enjoy
your new ones and then you'll know what you want at your next upgrade after
getting a scope!

Good Luck and Great Birding

Bob Taylor
Federal Way, WA
taylorrt at foxinternet.net

----------
> From: Jerold Converse <sanjer at televar.com>
> To: tweeters <tweeters at u.washington.edu>
> Subject: Binoculars
> Date: Thursday, December 11, 1997 2:42 PM
>
> Hi tweeters
> Since I started birding a month ago I have come to the conclusion that I
> need a good pair of binoculars to replace my 10x50 $39.00 specials. I
> have been considering the Celestron 9.5x44 ED. Has anyone heard anything
> good or bad about them. Any input would be very much appreciated. I have
> also considered the Audubon Swift 8.5x44 Ed, but they are $100.00 more,
> gotta stop some place.
>
> Thanks Jerry Converse