I was at the competitor in Owatonna, MN, this weekend and looked over the binoculars. I was trying to avoid "Made in China" optics and noticed some really nice ones made in Japan in my price range.
The following models looked to be nearly identical except for cosmetic differences. They all said "Made in Japan" in the exact same text and texture of the printing and in the same place. All had the same focusing and individual eye mechanism.
competitor XT 10x42
Leupold Wind River Cascades 10x42
Burris Signature Select
I called Burris Optics today and an employee said theirs are probably made by Light Optical Works in Japan. Are the others made in the same place also? I have a LOW made Weaver riflescope that is perfect. competitor won't say where theirs are made. I have contacted Leupold by e-mail and am waiting for a reply.