I have looked at Nikon Monarchs and find them to be excellent optically, 
fully waterproof, and close focusing.   They come in 8X42 (21.1 oz.), 10X42 (21.5 
oz.) and 8X36 (19.8 oz.) and can be purchased from ABA for under $300.   If 
you want to see them first, I know they are sold by the Cape May Bird 
Observatory at a similar price. 

Paul O'Brien
Rockville, Mont. Co., MD

In a message dated 10/27/06 9:15:36 AM,  writes:


> A friend, who is a casual birder, is looking for advice on buying new
> binoculars.  Here's his message.  What do you think?  Reply either
> privately to me, or on the list.
> 
> ... i've had a hankering for some waterproof
> binoculars that i could use while kayaking/canoeing.  they must be
> submersible.  any ideas how to research this?  i would prefer something
> economical, say less than $200; but might consider something more expensive.
> REI has some for around $150; Audubon Naturalist Soc. for more like $400.
> it would also be best if they were compact (light weight) like my other
> binoculars.
> 
> Thanks,
> Steve
>