ex-bro in law got a pair of Pentax last month.... seems like he's happy with them.
Pentax 62555 8x42 DCF CS Binoculars (Black)
I know they're above your price-point, but
this comparison might help.
little bit cheaper at B&H, but they don't have free shipping..... >read the reviews<
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...Binocular.html