Beware of poorly controlled internal reflections. I have two Pentax binoculars, one bought (8x56DCF), one received as a gift (10x50PCF.) Both have very low image contrast, especially when pointed toward or near a light source such as the sun or a street light at night, apparently due to shiny, unflocced, interior tubes. Both price out at nearly triple your preferred price point. If a major name such as Pentax can produce such junk, off brands at a third the price are
really suspect.
I look for three main qualities in binoculars: resolution, contrast, and ruggedness. My Pentax fail on the contrast and ruggedness. Be prepared to buy aftermarket cases for low cost binoculars. My Pentax optics were supplied, from the manufacturer, with nearly useless soft vinyl "cases." My 8x56DCF broke rather early on while stowed in a gear box. It was a wishbone break where the tubes below the focus and hinge were forced together. Pentax repaired, or replaced, the binoculars for little more than shipping costs. Both my Pentax 10x50PCF and Pentax 8x56DCF now live in
Doskocil Deluxe Two Pistol Cases which I bought, used, at $20-$30.
