tjroadster

Have narrowed down our binocular choices for upcoming Alaskan cruise to the following:

 

Plan to get two pair. First pair will be a Zen-Ray VISTA 8X42 (for my better half)

 

Can't decide on second pair. It is between the following:

 

Zen-Ray VISTA 10X42

2010 ZRS HD (SUMMIT) 10X42

 

The SUMMIT is about $75 more than the VISTA. I would like to get input on whether it is worth the extra $75.

Having owned both, I think summit is better built of the two models. It's slightly more compact than VISTA. The rubber armor is smoother. My wife thinks the summit is slightly lighter. To my eyes, both VISTA and SUMMIT are very clear and bright. But more experienced people may be able to tell the subtle difference between these two.

Has anyone use binoculars on the tripod? We are considering this adapter. Not sure it is really necessary.

 

http://www.zen-ray.com/shop/tripodadapter.html

it's easy enough for me to hold the ZRS HD steady with hand. I will be curious too whether the tripod adapter is needed for this.

Just splurged and ordered the 8 x 42 Nikon Monarch from Amazon yesterday. Also ordered the Alaska Cruise Handbook (Mile by Mile Guide). It seems like everything else about this vacation is a splurge also. Ha! Can't wait to go!

congratulations. It took us a while to finally decide to get our zen-ray ZRS binoculars. It turns out to be one of the best decisions we have made. Even before the trip, we have used them in many different outings. cannot wait to take them to Alaska.

I really like my Zen-ray ZRS HD binoculars, very crisp and bright. I am considering buying another pair soon. Initially, i am not sure whether I should buy it online based on the reviews here. Since they have 30-day return guarrantee, I decided to give it a try. Well, so far I am very impressed