I'm going to let you all in on a little secret. You don't have to carry around a full-sized pair of binoculars in order to have bright and clear images of the birds you are watching. I think that mid-sized binoculars are the future of birding. They are smaller and lighter then full-sized models while still providing great views. The quality of glass being used by optics manufacturers is such that they are able to get a lot of brightness out of smaller & lighter lenses and prisms.
I have recently purchased some of the new Vortex Fury 8x32 binoculars and have been really impressed with them. The 8x32 is smaller and almost 4oz lighter then the 8x42 model. Plus, the 8x32 offers a wider field of view while maintaining a close focus that is under 5 feet. The Fury also has a diopter adjustment that rides behind the focus wheel making it easy to reach and adjust.
Come on in to The Wild Bird and give the 8x32 a try. Of course, I also carry the full-sized Fury if you are often out in low light conditions and need a little more light gathering ability.
