Yes they are John, I birded for a few years with 10x50. The advantage is they should give a nice bright image for the price and in the hide when you can rest your elbows you will gain a little more than actually mag then say an 8x, which is what I now use.
Although like Pete I now use 8x42 there's not much in it IMO unless you have unusually unsteady hands.
Just stay away from zoom binoculars with small objectives like they sell in Argos (things with specifications like 8-40x30) and you can't go far wrong.
John I have always been an 8 x 42 man. This is the standard size but others go for 7 x 42 or 8 x 32 but for me given the amount of money and I can only afford one pair I like the jack of all trades idea. I would have thought 10 x 50 would be lower field of view and although more magnification would be subject to hand shake and be heavy. So if you have not bought them I would stick to 8 x 42 and push the boat out buy the best you can afford. Also handling is very important and this is an individual thing so try lots out till you find your perfect soulmate bins.
