Mounted or supported - I love my Andrews COmm's 80m * 20 magnification fully multi-coated triplets - around $220.
For strenght I would advise the lowest possible to give the widest field of view.
You want good focus, light grasp and faithful colour re-production - magnification doesn't warrant even 1% considerations - its a null issue.
I also tried some 70 mm * 15 magnification - much lighter, but teh triplets are a far superior monsters!
http://www.andrewscom.com.au/site-section-11.htm
http://www.andrewscom.com.au/images/...80_triplet.jpg
Giant 20 X 80
TRIPLET binoculars
$219.00 AUD
Why pay over triple for triplets elsewhere?
Yes, THREE objective lens for extra sharp contrast/sharpness!
- Broadband fully multicoated (BBFMC) to level IV on all BAK4 prisms and objective lens
- Rubberised body weighs only 2kg
- Built-in stainless steel balance adj./mounting bar and bracket
- Right ocular diopter adjustment
- Soft nylon case included!