I may as well add my .02 worth here on the binocular issue. After my
own careful search, I decided on the Celestron 8 x 42 REGALS (also sold
as the RANGER by Eagle Optics). It has been one of the few purchases in
my life that I have been COMPLETELY satisfied with. Here in Alaska, I
make use of them regularly and I use them hard. They are truly
waterproof and have a bright, crisp clear image and great eyerelief
(glasses wearer that I am). Many who have looked through them were
impressed enough to buy their own. One nature guide in the area even
recommends them to his clients. Have I said enough good things about
them? Price: a bit shy of $400.

Andy Sorensen
ajstudio at ptialaska.net