Hands down the "value for the dollar" winner - Vortex Diamondback 12x50mm Binoculars

You will not find a higher quality binocular for under $300. I spent an immense amount of time researching and comparing different brands, especially Leupold and Nikon. Leupolds are great and all, but you don't get what Vortex gives for the same $. I have a set of Nikon bincos too, and they have been great, in fact I've really liked them, but they are nowhere near the Vortex, specifically speaking the clarity of the glass. On my last hunting trip out west I spent hours each day looking through these without eye strain, viewing animals (deer) out to 2 miles without problem. I haven't had to use the warranty yet, but do your research and you'll conclude that Vortex comes in #1 there too. The only complaint that I would have is that the little rubber lens caps that they come with don't like to stay on. In my opinion, the Vortex 12X50 Diamondback maximizes your money spent.