I have the 8X42's and like them a lot. They've taken a beating out in the woods and still work great.

Tom is right about the harness. Get one. They're the best investment I've made besides the Nikon's and my Lone Wolf stand. I've shot plenty of game with the harness on. Never bothered me a bit. You just simply adjust them to suit.

Hmmm, now y'all got me thinking about the 8's. They would be better for the home place, woods hunting, but I was considering the 10's just for the distances out there. I've used both over the years, and I've learned that good 8's are better than poor 10's, but I don't think that's the nature of the choice here.

I don't think any of our party has a spotting scope, either. Maybe I can convince one of them to buy one before the trip...    

Decisions, decisions!

I love mine....paid $232 years ago and it was a great price at that time. Great glass at a super price.

I live out West and sometimes 10's are not enough.....They work great in combo with a good spotting scope.....Out here you need to find the critter, sometimes a mile away then figure out how to get in front of it or close enough to take it.

After you get past 8 power, the shaky hand syndrome seems to be an issue as well 8^).  We have both Nikon and Leupold at our local Walmart and there is little difference that I can detect in the brightness area, but I like the 8X42 cause I'm a little shaky.  Both Nikon and Leupold are top notch.

Don,
I haven't had a problem with shooting by 64" LB with the crooked horn harness. Everyone has their own comfort zone though. Stick with what works for you.

I loved my  10x42. Wish whoever stole them would give them back.   :(

I have the 10X42 and find them clear and bright. But I find them a bit shaky for me to hand hold, you need to get solid. I really think I would have preferred the 8X42. Great Glass Though. I find myself still using my older 7X35 Redfields most of the time.

I think I'll go ahead with the 10's for this trip, since I'll be glassing long distances. I have some good 8 power compact Nikons already, so that gives me more options.

I'll get the harness, too. Thanks to everyone for your input.

Don

i like mine!

Be sure to check around for Nikon rebates.
They usually have them on a number of products.

Here's an example:

http://www.opticsplanet.net/nikon-rebate.html#1

Lost Arra, that cinches it for sure! opticsplanet has the best price, free shipping, AND a $50 rebate! Thanks very much for the information- I don't know if I would have found that on my own when I ordered. Glad I waited until this morning!!

Whoops- just went to order, and found that the rebate is already included in the $189.95 price. Still the best deal around.

And yet another whoops- the price is now $215.95. Placed my order in a hurry, before inflation hits again! I must have looked at the 8X42 price this morning, but I'm sure it was for the 10's the first time I looked.

Law of the Wild: He who hesitates is lunch!!