Im looking to upgrade my 7x35 binoculars to 10x50's.For use on spotting DSO's.Im getting older and my eyes are too. Are the second binoculars really worth the xtra $-
http://www.telescope.com/control/binoculars/astronomical-binoculars/orion-ultraview-10x50-wide-angle-binoculars and why? Or any other suggestion's?
2010-10-23T10:46:32Z
Thanks PhotonX but these would be an aid for my telescope viewing.
Raymond2010-10-23T09:06:16Z
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I suspect that you mean Deep Sky Objects (and not the Dallas Symphony Orchestra).
As binoculars (as long as you get good quality optics) they are certainly worth it. The 50 mm aperture will double light gathering (giving you an increase of 3/4 of a magnitude and resolution improved by 40%).
However, they will be heavier and your arms are also getting older (if you got them at the same time as your eyes). Consider getting a "pod" (tripod or monopod). The tripod will provide the greatest steadiness but gets clumsy when trying to track an object. The monopod is less steady, but provides greater flexibility (However, you cannot let go of the monopod without getting that awful CLANCK-CRASH sound as the binoculars hit the pavement).
I have a pair of Minolta 10x50s, and would gladly trade them for a pair of 7x50 for sky viewing. As another poster said, hard to hold the 10x50 steady enough for truly enjoyable stargazing. Nice for watching the birds in early morning light, though.
You could move up to a big set of stargazers, maybe 25x100 and a parallelogram mount and tripod, but that depends on your budget. Before you know it you're getting into telescope land. You definitely wouldn't be using these hand held. But that's where I'd put the money toward, vs the 10x50s. Just my opinion, your mileage may vary.
Like others have said 10x50s seem a little too shaky looking through them in my opinion. Oberwerk has a new set of binoculars that are 9x60. These seem like they would be excellent. The right magnification with the right feild of view, a good balance.
Ya right your really going to use them to spot human game, make sure you prepare and plan it through man dont leave anything behind and always watch the watchers, humans are curious little buggers never forget that.