Swift Audubon 820 Binocular

Pros: Superb optics, waterproof, reasonable price
Cons: Somewhat big, slow focus

After quite a bit of research I recently purchased a pair of Swift Audubon ED binoculars. This is my fourth pair of binoculars, which I use primarily for birding. After looking through as many binoculars as I could get my hands on, and reading as much ...

Pros: Clear and bright; waterproof; good price
Cons: None

I am an avid birder and did a lot of research before buying this binocular. I have looked through many binoculars and this is the best for the money. You would have to spend more than twice the amount that the Audubon costs to see much improvement in...

Pros: Great optics.
Cons: In first pair I purchased a prism soon broke loose.

It's amazing that it's possible to buy such binoculars so cheaply. Images are bright, contrasty, and clear. My only criticism is that the first pair I received soon busted loose a prism. This was really an appalling lapse in quality control. However, Swift immediately replaced the defective binoculars with new ones. I mean, the whole exchange took only a few days.

Pros: Superb quality at a reasonable price
Cons: They don't advertise enough

I have owned the swift audubon for 6 years and have had nothing but great results. I have used and abused the audubons in hunting trips and am amazed at the clarity at dusk and dawn light for such a medium priced binocular. Several friends have put away Nikons and Stieners to use Swifts. If you can go to a store and compare Swift with others, do so. You won't believe your eyes. And your wallet will thank you.

Pros: Optical quality, field of view, relative price, weight, and rubber armor.
Cons: Fittings are cheesy and waterproofing yet to be tested.

I'll match the Swift 820 ED's against any glass that is out there for optical quality.

To give you optics and handling of this quality you have to expect that they cut somewhere. The fittings are less than deluxe....all plastic




But what a picture. Fantastic color, contrast and sharpness.

Pros: Super features and reasonable priced
Cons: Not as compact as a roof prism

First of all I have the non-ED, "extra dispersal" version of this binocular. I have had my Swift Audubon 820 for over 3 years and have been very pleased with it. I work as a wildlife biologist and I take it everywhere. They work well in all kinds of weather and outdoor conditions. I have taken them in the desert, through dense vegetation, and days of mist. The lenses hold up very well and are very clear. The wide field of view is also very good. The power combination of 8.5 x 44 is super for birding. The cost of this binocular is very reasonable when compared with higher-end binoculars such as Bausch & Lomb. I did a lot of research before I decided on this binocular and I have not regretted my desicion since. Overall the binocular is well put together piece of equipment.