[Note, this review is for the 8x42 model of these binoculars].

When looking for a good pair of birdwatching binoculars, you can do a lot worse than look to Opticron. They won't break the bank to the degree of some of the top brands such as Nikon, Ziess and Swarovski, but provide great, mid-price bins that will do for most circumstances.

These binoculars are a marvel for the price, giving a clear, crisp image through good quality glass, and perform reasonably well even in low light. I wear glasses, and the twist-down eyecups work brilliantly, with long eye relief providing a great viewing experience without ever being tempted to remove my specs.

These are nitrogen-filled, meaning they're supposedly waterproof up to 3m. While I have yet to experiment with dunking them into water, it's great to not have to worry about getting them caught in a downpour, and to be be able to give them a good wash should they get dirty.

The binoculars also have a very good close focus of under 3m, meaning they're great for getting better views of such animals as dragonflies and butterflies.

The focus wheel took a bit of getting used to, as it's slightly on the stiff side, but now feels like second nature. The weight of 682g is fairly light and usually barely noticeable, although after a long day they do occasionally cause a bit of a pull on the neck, but this is unavoidable with binoculars of this size. The rubber coating gives a good, natural grip as you use the binoculars.

While you will undoubtedly get a better view through more expensive binoculars, these are fantastic for <£400. I've had mine for nearly two years now and never regretted it. If you're tempted to by a top pair of a Swarovskis or similar, at least try out a pair of Opticron BGA SEs first, to see if the top end bins are really worth the £500+ price difference!