re: Binoculars needed. Help please.

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I have never had anything other than cheap binos, and they are not cutting it. These would be primarily for birding, and the distances would not be over 60 yards often. I am a cheap bastard, so looking for a deal.

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I would advise against buying binoculars solely based on price. IMO, you need to go "test drive" several pair of binoculars at your local Dicks, Bass Pro Shop, Academy, Scheels, Cabelas, Security, or similar sporting goods store. Let your eyes decide after looking through them. Then shop based on what brand/model looked best to you.

Vortex is an American company (Wisconsin) with great customer service. They have high profit margins and offer Lifetime Warranty on products which keep customers happy. The Diamondback series of optics are made in China which are very cheap to produce. It’s been my experience that lower end, Chinese glass is horrible with clarity, resolution, and light gathering. If used for extended periods of time, cheap glass can result in eye fatigue and headaches. Not that big of a deal for a rifle hunter using a scope, but could be a deal breaker for a bird watcher who is constantly looking through glass.

Lastly, don't get caught up in the 10x magnification or 50mm objective lens is better than lower magnification options. Some 8x42 binos made in Japan or the USA will totally outperform optics made in China or the Philippines.