>>2814082Mind you that optics are a bit difficult to explain with objective things like specifications and numbers.
I have a pair of Swarovski 10x42 binoculars, and on paper you might not be able to "justify" them over a 10x42 pair from Nikon or Leupold.
If you just want to look at animals during the daytime, you don't need to worry about that, but if you're using them in dim light, you'll notice the difference a lot clearer, something typically appreciated by hunters and serious bird watchers.
I don't want to push you out of your comfort zone, and it certainly seems like sheer lunacy for the everyman to throw a thousand dollars down for a pair of binoculars, but I will say that the money you spend on quality optics isn't wasted. You can get some great deals on secondhand optics too, but in that case you definitely want to try before you buy. I got a very good Swarovski rifle scope used, works brilliantly and I only paid a third of the new price. It's not frightfully expensive to get them serviced either, unless they're absolutely busted.
>>2814136Consider a binocular harnesses. They're either a minimal set of straps like in the picture, a small protective chest pack, or chest rigs so laden with pouches and straps for your gizmos and doodats that you look like an airsoft goober.
I actively use my binoculars when I hunt, so having them in a harness is better than having them on a strap for me. Less load on my neck, they don't swing around, and the little protective bag keeps them protected from bumps and dings while I move. I've got the old Kuiu Pro model, looks like they've made some updates to it since.
