I am the delighted owner of Eagle Optics rangers. They are lightweight,
close focus to 3 feet (great for butterflies) and waterproof, fog proof and
have a lifetime warranty, all for under $350. Weight is an important
consideration for me, and I rejected several binos because they were too
heavy to hold for long periods. Close focus was also a key for me because I
as a naturalist, I am always looking at bugs as well as birds. My
binocular budget was $1,000, and I tried out lots of different kinds and
ended up liking the Eagles best for the reasons above. Optics are a
personal thing I guess, like Burt, I have tried out several side by side and
mostly can not descern a visible difference. BTW, I have found the Wenas
annual Campout a great place to try out binoculars, as people are often very
friendly and often willing to let you have a look.

Rob Sandelin
Snohomish County