9 replies to this topic

[sam84]

Hi,

Just got into astronomy and looking for decent pair of 10x50 binos and found the Helio Lightquest which I'm considering. Does anyone know of any better ones for around £300 price point?

[sevenofnine]

Welcome to C/N! 

 

I am not familiar with the Helio Lightquest so other members may comment. Can you order from the USA without too much financial pain? If so, then consider binoculars from Oberwerk.com. Kevin has a wide selection of binoculars at a variety of price points. He also checks the overall Q/C and collimation of every binocular he sells. The 10x50 Deluxe would be an excellent choice IMO. Best of luck with your decision! 

 

https://oberwerk.com...10x50mm-deluxe/.

Edited by sevenofnine, 03 December 2024 - 05:47 PM.

[Doug Culbertson]

Since you don’t seem to mind IF binoculars, you might take a look at the APM 10x50ED MS as well.

https://www.apm-tele...ries-binoculars

 

FWIW, I found the Helios LightQuest 10x50 at FLO. https://www.firstlig...binoculars.html

[Dale Smith]

Welcome to CN! Oberwerk’s 10x50 EDU, the interim model, is a good choice and should be close to your upper limit, in price. I own the older model, the 10x50 U (Ultra) and find it an excellent binocular.

[sevenofnine]

After looking at the Helios binocular description at FLO, it sure looks like a high quality product. If you have any positive experience with the brand then it's likely a good decision for you. Good luck! 

[doug mc]

Your first choice binocular looks very nice indeed. It also looks like a local purchase for you as well. 

[harbinjer]

I found a review from Steven Tonkin. He had great things to say. I'm guessing you won't find better for the money if that's your limit.  If you can spend $350, the APM ED 10x50s will likely be better.  Hopefully it fits your face and hands well.  

[sam84]

Thx for the recommendations given I'm just doing research on the ones suggested.

Has anyone bought a premium binoculars 2nd hand from ebay? Like a Fujinon Stx. Is it wise to do so?

[glittledale]

i've bought several used binoculars on ebay.  it's gone wonderfully most of the time, but very badly once when the "binocular" turned out to be an envelope stuffed with cardboard.  both ebay and paypal rejected the claim (i'm leaving out details, but the short version is that the system can be gamed).  i would buy only from sellers with a solid reputation - something i forgot to check in that instance. another concern is that the seller might not really understand what they are selling.  having said all this, many of my very favorite binoculars have come from ebay.  in any case, i'd look for a reputable seller who ensures collimation.  

[sam84]

Yeah sorry about that but 9 times out of 10 ebay Is a pleasant experience, I just thought I'd ask due to not knowing how delicate or easily damaged the optics or lenses are on them especially for 2nd hand one. Seen a Fujinon stx for about 400 which is a good deal so thx for the reply.