If you're going to use them on the water, you should seriously consider somthing with image stabilization -- it makes a huge difference. Gyro is best but expensive, gyro assisted is good and electronic image stabilization is a lot better than nothing. Fujinon, Nikon and Cannon are all good. You can find Cannon 10x30 image stabilized on eBay in the $300-400 range.
I've got a compact 8x24 Bushnell H2O and a 7x50 Nikon. The Nikon gives much brighter, sharper image and works much better in low light conditions. Granted the Nikon's better quality, but a bigger diameter objective lens (50 vs 24mm) gathers a lot more light and works better at dawn, dusk and low light days. The difference is pretty noticeable even on overcast days. I bought the Bushnesll for the kayak and wish I'd spent more to get something with image stabilization.
Whatever you get, make sure it's completely waterproof and nitrogen filled. Otherwise, you'll have issues on the water.
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