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Vision Quest
Sep 30, 2008
By: Thomas McIntyre
Not all optics are created equal
Sparks Will Fly
Sep 30, 2008
Lighters that strike a perfect balance between classic and cool
Birds of Play
Sep 30, 2008
Antique illustrations come to life on modern upholstery
Dig In
Sep 30, 2008
Fall Must-haves for beautiful tulips come spring
It's All in the Details
Aug 08, 2008
Whether it's a new watch or a vintage tie, it's the little things that make a sharp dresser
Old Car Heaven
Aug 08, 2008
By: Keith Thomson
An Alabama attorney wants to put you in the driver's seats of his classics
Natural Beauty
Aug 08, 2008
By: Allston McCrady
A designer casts distinctive jewelry from found island objects
Take the Party Outside
Jun 13, 2008
By: Carter Worrell
A few ideas for a summer soiree
Gear Up for Summer
Apr 21, 2008
By: Carter Worrell
The hottest new products for the river, the beach, the boat, the green, and the garden
Colorful Obsessions - Radiant Reds
Jan 07, 2008
By: Carter Worrell
Radiant Reds
Colorful Obsessions - Wonderous Whites
Jan 07, 2008
By: Carter Worrell
Wonderous Whites
Colorful Obsessions - Punchy Pinks
Jan 07, 2008
By: Carter Worrell
Punchy Pinks
Holiday Gift Guide
Nov 07, 2007
By: Carter Worell
Great Finds For Every Man
Autumn Gems
Sep 24, 2007
By: Carter Worrell
You won’t have to dive deep for this season’s oysters and pearls
page: 1 2

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Vision Quest

By: Thomas McIntyre
September 30, 2008

The Fan: Swarovski Habicht Pocket Tyrol 8x20B. $887.78; swarovskioptik.com
credit: John Lawton
Field optics can be as varied as wine grapes. As you might drink rosé in summer and Pinot Noir in winter, you do indeed want optics appropriate for every season: football, hunting, birding, and boating.

Whatever the endeavor, selecting the right binoculars or spotting scope is less a question of price (although it’s relevant) than of several particular characteristics, such as waterproofing, fogproofing, resolution, and the quality of “little things” such as eyecups, bridges, focus, and armor. Our top four picks passed the test on all counts.