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As my next step in casual astronomy, I’m looking for a decent pair of binoculars, bought locally if possible.
The 10x50s offered by AstroNZ in Auckland look attractive at $99, but I’m thinking of a more modest magnification like the classic 7×50: easier to hold, and a wider field of view to keep guide-stars and asterisms in view while star-hopping.
I thought there was a dealer in astronomical equipment in Riccarton, and I’ve dealt with Phototools in Loburn beyond Rangiora. Some of the offerings of the big photographic dealers seem to be getting into geek bling – I just want to make the most of my insomnia, not sail single-handed around the world.
I have slight astigmatisms corrected by glasses, but I’m not used to using glasses with binoculars etc. I have a nice little pair of 8x20s, which, like my distance glasses, do help at night, but bigger objectives would be even better. Any thoughts on this, or intermediates like 8×56?
The 10 x 50’s that Astronz sell are very, very light. Almost too light. I would recommend buying ones specifically related for the use you want them for. See Andrew’s comments in link below.
I too have glasses and astigmatisms and I believe this is why I can’t use a telescope. Initially I was wary of buying binoculars in case they didn’t work either. I am stoked that the ones I bought work a treat. (I ordered the 20 x 80’s as I had a spare heavy duty steel framed tripod to carry their weight.) You can ring them to order if you are reluctant to order on line.
If you decide to buy through Astronz; remember to say you were recommended Astronz by CAS that gives CAS a charity donation. Sorry no discount to the person :).
Have fun 🙂
Link to where Andrew talks about binoculars. Not just what each does, but also drawbacks.
I Too have 10*50 from Astronz. I agree with Tracey – they are very light and fine quality. I too have astigmatism but use it without glasses and don’t feel disadvantaged.
8*50 you would love if you like 8*20. 7, 8 or 10 magnification is a matter of personal taste and requirement.
I cant vouch for other retailers but anything from Astronz is reasonably priced and of good quality because this is their philosophy.
Cheers
Terry
Many thanks to Terry and Tracey for these helpful responses. I’m still sniffing around for 7x50s, but they’re not common on land, and marine ones fetch boatie prices. The two I have found provide a dichotomy; any thoughts, particularly on the reputation of the brand and the retailer of the second option – are they well thought of in serious astronomical circles?
Item Option1 Option2 Notes Retailer Photo Warehouse Telescopes NZ Location CHC AKL Can try out and buy local in CHC Brand Nikon Saxon Model Aculon A211 Wide Angle Design Porro Porro Prisms BAK4 BAK4 Coating Multi Multi Field of view @1000 112 119 Nikon go up to 188, for a price and weight Eye relief 17.6mm long Weight 905g 785g Other Aspherical lens for flat field, rubber armoured Price $228 $99
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