I have an opportunity to buy a pair of Zeiss 8x20 Conquest's for about half price.I'm almost ready to spring for them, but wanted to know if any of you have used them.Are they worth $280? I "need" new binocs anyhow, and thought this might be a heck of a deal.Any thoughts?

Gimme your contact. I'll buy them!

Killdeer

I take it they're worth the price then?  

Zeiss is top shelf glass. If you like compacts that is a good price if they are new.

You will look long and hard before you find better glass than Zeiss.

Excellent glass!  8x20 is just right for a compact binoc too.

Zeiss is great, and it depends on what you want them for.........a binocular guy will tell you magnification x 5 is optimal. If you are looking to spot an animal on a hillside, or pick out a patch of fur in a bush, you would be better off with 6x30, 7x35 etc.

Just realized that they ar 20mm objectives.  I want 30 mm.

Zeiss is premier glass, but I've talked to people who were disappointed with the 8x20's.  Premier glass does not make up for 20mm objectives.  That's why many have settled on 30mm or 32mm for smaller glasses; they are a pretty reasonable compromise.  If you are set on an actual pocket binoc, these are a fine deal at that price.  If that price is available for multiple binocs, you would likely make a lot of people here happy by posting the info.

I have Zeiss compacts & love them, they are fantastic glasses. I'd buy them if I were you.
Frank

I agree with JockC and Bjorn. That is a good price,but you have to figure out what you want to use them for. The more magnification you have at lower objectives gives you less light gathering and field of view. I bought a pair of 10X40 Zeiss not understanding a lot of this,and ended up not being able to hold them steady. I still have the Zeiss,but ended up getting some Steiner 8X56. I use them both for different stuff.

I got away from the compacts and bought zeiss 8x30"s. I love them.  It was worth the money.

Zeiss is a good company, but Conquests are not their high end glass.  8x20 IMO is not a good combination for low light conditions, regardless  of the manufacturer.  8x30 or 8x32s are much better.

8x20 are good for looking for shed antlers or stuff like that during good lighting, but for hunting during prime time evening or mornings they just don't let in enough light for my taste. Mike

I would have no use for 8X20s at any price.

I'm not sure I would agree completely with Ground Hunter, as i carry a pair in the side pocket of my van (yeah, a socker mom van   :rolleyes:  ), but not for sitting or even walking in the woods. My 8 x 50's were definitely too big and heavy, but 8 x 40s sure are brighter and faster to use than the 20mm.

I'm not a fan of the compacts.  Leupold makes a small model Yosemite that fits in your hand well.  6x30 and 8x30.            

I have the Vortex Vanquish 8x26 compacts.  Clear, compact, and good quality for the $$.  They have the same warranty as their high end models too.

I have a pair of Leopold Katmai 6x30-under 300 dollars. Perfect for spotting hogs etc in their beds.