entry level bin suggestions?

I'm looking for a pair of entry level binoculars to purchase for my girlfriend who helps me spot birds. It's not a lot of fun for her when I point out something in the distance that I view from my camera and all she sees is a spec. Obviously you get what you pay for but we are not hardcore birders so I'm not looking for a pair of swavorskis. Thanks in advance.

Luke, there's a lot of good glasses out there that don't cost an arm and a leg. A good starting point is what size: i.e. 7 x 35, etc. 7 x 35 were the de facto choice for years but now many people are getting 8 x 40 or 8 x 42. 7 x 50's are good low light glasses but are bigger and heavier. Just like with cameras, get a pair that have good coatings. I think it would really help if she went and actually tried some out and held them, focused, etc. She probably will find 1 or 2 that just seem to feel better in the hand. For me, I have to try them as I have a narrow inter-pupilary distance and not all binocs work for me. Also, Google those you are interesting in and find some sites that have ratings and feedback on various binocs. Good luck! I'm sure you'll find a good pair at a good price.

Check out the lower end Vortex binoculars... I have a pair I really like. They're reasonably priced (compared to Swarovski, Leica, etc) high quality for the money. They even have a lifetime warranty against any dings or breakage, even if it's your fault.

I have the 8.5x32 "Spitfire" model. It's a good compromise between size and magnification and light gathering. It's been discontinued, but I think the Crossfire 8x32 model is similar.

Note that the various model lines are available in different magnifications and objectives. The Spitfire line is available in 8x32, 8x42, 10x32, and 10x42, for instance.

I've been very pleased with the mid range Pentax 8x43's I have. Not super cheap, but not too bad. They might be a little pricey for entry level.

I would second the look at Vortex. I also have a pair and they are great. I just got back from a vacation had them around my neck most of the time and was never disappointed.

Birding binoculars is one of those things where price really does matter. I know some of my buddies who teach birding have been dissatisfied with Vortex because the sealing isn't very good and moisture, followed by fungus, gets inside the lens groups. Admittedly, Alaska climates subject bins to a lot more stress. Differential contraction in very cold weather, for one thing. Pentax, even at the low end, aren't cheap but are very well made.

Anyone use Zoom Binoculars or should I stay away? I'm also looking at some Nikon's.. I figure all my gear is Nikon so might as well try and keep the theme going! Thanks for all the help so far

Luke, like Jim says, you really do get what you pay for with binoculars (as with other optics). If you're willing to enter the $300-400 dollar price range there are a lot of great options. Nikon Monarchs and Eagle Optics Rangers are two that I've had great experiences with. Even if you don't buy the Eagle Optics brand, I'd still purchase from them, as their customer service is second to none.

Spending in this range will get you a quality pair that is a pleasure to use--which means she'll use them more than a cheaper pair and find you more birds.

God to binoculars.com. They have great sales and you can get some mid grade binos, the $300 to $400 range at great savings from makers like pentax and nikon.

I've been looking into a mid-priced pair of binocs as an upgrade and have appreciated the discussion. There are some good articles about selecting binoculars and mid-priced ratings here. http://www.birdwatching.com/optics.html

I have a pair of el cheapo compact binocs that I tuck into a jacket pocket on walk abouts. There are a lot better out there, but they are fairly functional.

Poor quality binoculars will quickly outlive their desirability. I recommend Nikon Monarch 8x42mm. They list for $420, and you can get them now on sale a www.binoculars.com for $219...I am sure you will not be disappointed.

Luke, I have had Leica binoculars for years and feel they are some of the best optics available. My favorites are the 10x25 Trinovid BCA binoculars. They are very sharp from edge to edge and are light weight and can be folded and carried in your top pocket when not needed. Once you go up on the objective lens diameter to 35 and 40 the binoculars get heavier. I prefer the smaller light weight ones. Zeiss also makes good lenses but I think Leicas are top of the line. You should check these out. Hope this helps.