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Hi Dave,
The AOE 12x60 binos are very good also (I've looked throught them). In fact I nearly got them instead of the 15x70. They're still on my list of things to buy. They are a VERY good balance between power and portability/usability AND they can be used hand held for longer periods!! A big plus. I would definitely recommend them.
I also have the AOE heavy duty tripod. It is quite good quality, and also quite light (you could take it hiking). It does not compare with a parallelogram or fork mount - but given the price and weight considerations I still rate it a buy. It is NOT useable with 25x100 binos for astronomical use - but just OK for terrestrial. 20x90s would also be too much for astro IMO. It is OK for any of the 20x80 or smaller binos. Bear in mind that adjustments will be somewhat fiddly with this type of mount, as it's really designed as a photo tripod, and doesn't lend itself particularly well for astro work. But it does extend high enough to use standing which is a big plus for me. Works quite well with 15x70s :-) If you can afford one of the more expensive bino mounts then they are certainly better - but not portable. But I assume you don't want to spend that much on the mount... yet!! Making your own is another option to consider if you're handy. Plenty of designs on the web.
For the price of the AOE binos you really can't go wrong IMO. They are great. Just pick a size (or two) and have fun. Personally I would go for something in the 12x60 to 20x80 size (or both of these) in their standard models. These are lighter and therefore more managable, and still great to look through.
Don't forget to let us know what you decide!!!
Nick.
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