Fujinon is a excellent binocular, and I have never had a problem with Steiners. But I would like to point out a couple notes. Do look at Alpen, excellent warranty, any problem, (including dropping from the bridge to main deck) and Alpen will repair or replace, life time warranty, no matter how old they are.
Second item is about West Marine (or other box marine store) binoculars. I have used a couple really good West Marine sets, and it was always confusing to find some good, some bad ones. Until it was explained to me…It is all about quaility control. Companies such as Fujinon and Steiner will not let a set binoculars out of the factory unless they meet a certain level of quality. West Marine (and other brands) quality control is not as high. SO…if you want decent quality without paying the cost, go to your local West Marine store and open and try out each set of binoculars they have there, odds are good, that at least one set will have very good (as good as Fujinon or Steiner) optics. May have to open a lot of boxes, And of course you have to find a helpful store clerk, But it is possible to get a very good set from West Marine (or other store such as Sears or Boaters World). Or just bite the bullet and pay for Fujinons. The cost is not that bad when you consider how useful a[U] good[/U] set of binoculars are.