Binoculars

[phil]

I've been thinking for a while now about getting a good set of binoculars. I keep hearing great things about Leicas, but that's probably just because my buddy can get a great deal on them.
I want something that I can use for spotting deer and predators, so high power is a must. I'm thinking fixed power, or maybe the new Leupold switch power. What do you guys think? Any recommendations?
I don't really have a budget - I figure one good pair of bino's should last for many years if properly cared for, so I am definitely thinking high-end.

[300WEATHERBYBOISE]

I am no expert on binoculars but have compared the higher priced Leicas, Swarovskis & Zeiss models. From what I saw and talking to the guys at Cabelas and other sporting goods stores the Swarovskis have equivalent glass for 10-20% less money.   

[weatherby_magnum]

There are only two pairs of binos you should be considering in my opinion. Thats the Swarovski 10 x 42 ELs and the Leica 10 x 42 Ultravids.  If you are after a bit more versatility Leica has introduced a new pair, the Leica, Duovid 8 + 12 x 42, giving an 8-12 power similar to what you get with Leupold. I have tested all top end models and can only recommend Swarovski or Leica. I ended up with the Leica Ultravid 8 x 32 as I am in Australia and wanted an Australiuan / African set of Binos. For me, hunting in New Zealand or Mongolia or other long distance locations would better suit the 10 power models....  If you can get a good deal on Leica why wait any longer. Leica also have the highest light transmission rating...   

[phil]

Ok, so Leica it is.
But is 10 power really high enough? I like hunting Coyotes and my buddy and I hunt them in California Valley - its a valley about 8 miles across by 30+ miles long. All flat with little vegetation. I'd like to be able to spot them a long way off to see if we are getting response to the calls. Is a higher power warranted?

[John]

10X is just right for binoculars. You will find it starts to get difficult to hold anything larger steady for long periods of time.  If you need more power than a 10X you might want to look into a spotting scope.

[skipper]

I use 10X for Binoculars, but i have 24 or 25 X on my rifle, I thinks that the solotion

I have a Zeiss Victory 10X56 with floride FL and lotutec, that reflect water from the glass, not that i like huntin in rain 

[Greenheadjed]

I have used Leica, several Zeiss models, 10 power SLC Swarovski, 15 power SLC Swarovski, and 10 power EL Swarovski bonoculars and my absolute favorite are the EL 10X42 Swarovski's.  I can glass all day without the headache that some glasses give me.