I prefer full sized binos in either 8x or 10x. The full size will gather light better and reduce eye fatigue if you glass a lot. With your budget, I'd look at Leupold, Vortex, and some of upper level Nikons. If you're current or prior military, or a first responder, many companies offer discounts. Vortex, Europtic, Experticity all offer good discounts and I'm sure there are others.