Astronomical Binoculars

Bob · Guest

Hello. I'm interested in selecting some large or giant binoculars for astronomical viewing and wanted some inputs on the brands offered.

I have a set of 7.5x35 Jason and 10x50 Bushnell binoculars and have been looking at the 100mm binoculars. The number of brands is a little overwhelming. I have been reviewing the Celestron Skymaster 25x100's and also looked though the Apogees and the Oberwerks.

After reading the articles here and some other online reviews I know I want good quality but don't want to break the bank and have been looking at about $250-$300 max.

The Celestron appears to be probably one of the better choices but it looks like I've only touched the surface on the scopes you have listed. I'm hoping someone can give me some inputs on either the brands I've been reviewing or some different brands that might be a better value as well as maybe a better way to compare the scopes.

Thanks.

Jne_K · Site Admin Joined: 24 Sep 2003 Posts: 5669

Hi

All binoculars in this price are of Chinese origin and will be somewhat similar in quality and performance. More important is warranty and customer service. In this regard, we have had our best luck with Celestron (great warranty), Oberwerk and also the better grade Zhumells.

Before you go buying a 100mm bino, however, you MUST budget for a heavy duty tripod. A light tripod with a 100mm binocular is a disaster. I cannot emphasize this enough. This means at least $150 + for a tripod such as the Zhumell Heavy Duty or a Bogen kit ($200 +). If you can't swing this, you are better off with a $100 tripod and a 20x80.
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Bob · Guest

Joanie,
Thanks for the input. That helps to simplify things for me.
Bob

Jne_K · Site Admin Joined: 24 Sep 2003 Posts: 5669

You are very welcome, Bob. Get some binos and get out there and observe. You'll love it.
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Joanie K - Your personal optics expert

Forum: http://www.opticsplanet.com/msgboard
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Phone: 847-513-6201
Fax: 847-919-3003