Carson 3D Series 8x42mm High Definition Binoculars with ED Glass - Black (TD-842ED)

I purchased two pairs of the Carson 3D 10x42 binoculars for my husband and I. We use binoculars casually, we're not hunters or serious birders. We photograph birds and wildlife for a hobby, and binoculars allow us to see birds at a distance more easily than through our cameras. After a month of researching various brands and reading numerous reviews, I settled on the Carson 3D's. The binoculars checked all of the technical boxes: ED glass, fully multi coated, phase corrected, dielectric coating, nitrogen purged. Not having a local retailer to actually try them, I worried a little about the quality of the view through them, but reviewers were very enthusiastic and positive about the image quality, so I took a chance. We haven't been disappointed. Compared to our old Nikon Action binoculars, the view is brighter and higher resolution. I admit I have no experience with higher quality binoculars for comparison, but I do know quality optics from using Zeiss and Canon L series lenses on my cameras. The Carson 3D binoculars are well worth the money and I have no problem believing the reviewers who stated they compare favorably to higher priced binoculars. They appear to be well made, are comfortable to hold, and not very heavy. If I could find one thing to nitpick, it would be the case. My husband likes that it stays attached and flips down, I find it a bit cumbersome. Other than that, we're very pleased with the purchase.