Replacing 8.5x56 Nikon Binos

[Breddoch]

I have been using a pair of 8.5x56 Nikon Monarchs for about 10 years. They have served me well but I am really itching to upgrade. I’m thinking of sticking with an 8x56 configuration. Most of my hunting is in MS but I usually get out west for one Hunt every year or every other year. I like the light gathering and field of view of the 56.

I am in no hurry and will keep an eye on the classifieds for a used pair before I run out and buy new.

Anyone have recommendations for an upgrade or strong enough feelings to talk me out of the 8x56?

 

[Lionhound1975]

I have the Meostar 8x56 and it is an excellent low light glass. About the only thing that is going to be considerable brighter is going to be a Zeiss HT 8x54 but that is well north of $2000. For the money the Meostar hits way higher than its price and puts it up in the SLC territory at half the price. I compared the Meostar 8x56 to a Zeiss Conquest 8x56 and the Conquest image was a little brighter but to my eyes the Meostar had better resolution and handled glare and stray light much better.

The 8x56 is going to be about the brightest configuration although a 10x56 will let you see more detail in the low light due to the magnification, but the image wont be as bright as the 8x all things considered like same make/model.

The Meostar 8x56 is the brightest low light bino I have although I have a Meostar 7x42 which is a very good low light bino and a Blaser Primus 8x42 which is excellent in low light.