The Carson XM are noticably better then the Bushnell Legends and WAY brighter and clearer than the Nikon Monarchs. I sold the 8x42 pair to a friend and as soon as I get some extra cash I am buying another pair in 10x50. Do a search on this forum for "Carson" and also since you bow hunt go to http://www.archerytalk.com - www.archerytalk.com and do a search for "Carson" this is how I found them from fellow bow hunters. . Also click and read this review from a bird watchers forum review . http://www.naturephotographers.net/articles0404/je0404-1.html - http://www.naturephotographers.net/articles0404/je0404-1.htm l
As far as roof prisms go in their price range and even for a more money Carson XMs cant be beat. I compared them to Pentax DCF HRII,Nikon Monarchs, Bushnell Legends, and some Windrivers and none were as good as the Carsons.
I have the Swift Audubon ED glass poro's and they are beyond words for the money. But some people dont like the poro bulk although weight is not an issue since the Audubons are only about 24.5 oz.they have short eye relief for people that wear glasses that can be a problem. My Carsons were not quite up to my Swifts (which can hold their own to much much more expensive glass) but they are not very far behind. In fact dare I say that the Carson XMs are just about the same as the Pentax DCF SP I think in optical performance and a lot cheaper. I know that I really like my Weaver Grand Slam 10.5X45 binoculars and they cost much more than my Carsons did, and the Carsons are in my opionon much better binoculars. True the binoculars themselves are made in China but they have Japaneese glass and a warranty that is awsome. I think the Carsons are the best kept secret out there.
Now if your willing to spend a little bit more money and you dont wear glasses (not enough eye relief) and dont mind the width of poro glasses check out the Swift Audubons. Do a check for them as well on this forum they are truely beyond words of praise for the money, Also check out this review:
http://betterviewdesired.com/audubon/audubon.html - http://betterviewdesired.com/audubon/audubon.html
Also, the Audubons in non ED are very good and a little cheaper BUT they do weigh more at 29 oz.
Again, of the roof prisms that you are looking at the Carson is the way to go. You might want to check out the Alpen Shasta Ridge series which I think is better than the Nikons and right up there with the Bushnell Legends and Alpen is a big supporter of Archery events. The Alpen Apex line is very good but not any better than the Carson XM and cost more.
Good luck and keep us posted on what you decide.
AC
------------- If You're In A Fair Fight, You Didn't Plan It Properly
- Anonymous
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