Light weight Binos

[Wacko]

Anyone got experience with more budget-oriented ($200–$500) options in the compact-ish class? E.g., 10x30s or 8x30s from the Opticron Explorer, Hawke Frontier, or Nikon Monarch M7 lines?

(I'm looking for something lighter / smaller than my hefty 12x50s to bring on hunts when I know I won't need excellent glass or low-light performance. But if there's a major drop-off in performance once you go below the ~$500 mark, then I'll probably just save up for a Maven B.3, Opticron Traveler, or something similar.)

I personally took a chance on the vortex diamondback hd 8x32's. I carry them with a rick young harness. On sale right now on Midway usa for $209.99. For the money I find them quite excellent...I use them much more than my more expensive binos...compact, light, bright, still a 4mm exit pupil, great color contrast....2 years in and not interested in "more"...

I'm no glass snob...but I'd have a hard time spending more "on the chance" I might get better glass than these have....I'm sure once you spend a bunch more they will be better...

YMMV