How much of a difference does objective lens size really make on binoculars?

[ck40711]

So I have a pair of Vortex Vulture 8.5x50 that I have always sworn by. But after reading some post on here, I am toying with the idea of trying to sell them and get a pair of 8x56 Vulture's instead for extra clarity and light gathering. My question is do you think I will see a noticeable difference going from a 8.5x objective to a 8x as well as a 50 objective lens to a 56? Or is it so minimal of a diffence that I do better just saving my money and keeping what I have? Thanks

Casey

[jerp]

I think a 50mm objective lens is more than adequate. Just as important is the size of the ocular lens (the one next to your eye.) Bigger ocular lenses not only let in more light, but they are more comfortable to look through for long periods - less eye strain. I have some 8x50 Leicas and the ocular lens is huge. They really bring in alot of light but they are pretty heavy.

[old killer]

The 8.5 is the ocular lens and tells you the amount of magnification. The 50 is the objective lense and does determine the amount of light allowed to the ocular lense.
Your eye will not see the additional light as brighter. The eye gathers light to a factor of 5, that is your objective lens divided by the power, anything more does not help. 8x42 work well, 10x50 work well, much more than 10X and you will perceive too much movement or shaking.
Your 8.5x50 were developed to use in IBO tournaments when 8X was max allowed. They would allow 8.5.
The only way to see better than your 8.5x50 is to buy optics with better glass.

[Black Ice]

The 8.5 is the ocular lens and tells you the amount of magnification. The 50 is the objective lense and does determine the amount of light allowed to the ocular lense.
Your eye will not see the additional light as brighter. The eye gathers light to a factor of 5, that is your objective lens divided by the power, anything more does not help. 8x42 work well, 10x50 work well, much more than 10X and you will perceive too much movement or shaking.
Your 8.5x50 were developed to use in IBO tournaments when 8X was max allowed. They would allow 8.5.
The only way to see better than your 8.5x50 is to buy optics with better glass.

Wow I just got taken to school. Thanks for the info!

[Woody ETex]

I got bushnells 10x42 "Chuck Adams" editions, must say that they are friggin awesome!!!!!! light, powerful, EASILY focused... and if they get dropped, I'm not out to much money... But I am thinking NIGHT VISION next!