"Ryan Christiansen" wrote in message om...
I've been spending some time paddling in the national wildlife refuges
in North Dakota and I've come to realize that I need a good set of
binoculars. They should be waterproof and not too expensive. I've
looked around and there are way too many to choose from. Does anyone
have any opinions about what makes for a good set of binoculars, and
what are the best brands, etc.?

Hi Ryan :

First you're correct to choose waterproof. My non-waterproof binocs were dunked during a portage when a backpack they were in
fell into the water. Non-waterproof binocs are ruined by water and usually the repairs cost as much as a new set.
Be aware that water-resistant is a classification but not the same as waterproof.
Waterproof binocs that bring in enough light to give a clear view are just not that cheap and money spent on cheap ones is
generally lost because they are fairly useless. Go ahead and spend a few bucks, it's worth it and can make you safer, especially
when wilderness tripping.
I have a Pentax 10x24 which I like. It's the backpack compact version and is small but gives a good picture.

Te Canaille