Compact, Tough Binoculars?

[Oguruma]

I am searching for a pair of compact, lightweight and tough binoculars, similar in form factor to the M-24 binoculars. I prefer 7-10x magnification, coming in under 1 pound. I would also like some form of rangefinding reticle, but that is more for a "gee-whiz" factor. So far the only ones I have really considered were the civilian version of the M-24 binocular by Weems and Plath (called the Apache), and the IOR B/GA 10x25. My price goal is under $400.

Anybody have any other ideas? Or input on the binoculars I mentioned?

Thanks
Jeremy

 

[secondstoryguy]

Re: Compact, Tough Binoculars?

They don't have the reticle, but I would recommend the Leica Trinovid or Ultravid compacts. I've been using them for years and they are awesome. In fact, they are so light and handy they are pretty much the only binocular I've used.

 

[Yippeekiay]

Re: Compact, Tough Binoculars?

The glass on these is most likely not on par with Leica but they might be worth looking into.
http://www.cameralandny.com/optics/vortex.pl?page=vortexviper8x28rt