Q1: It looks like Audubon used an identical form factor for their more economical 6 x 16. Are the optics really night and day between the Nikon and Audubon? I like the form factor but feel that the optics in my current unit are very flare-prone and there is significant distortion at the corners. I would consider an upgrade to the 5 x15 or more likely the 7 x 15 if its really a marked improvement. Thanks,

A: The optics in the Nikon are going to be of a higher quality glass so the image would be much clearer in a Nikon when compared to a Audubon.          When comparing the 5x15 monocular and the 7x15 monoculars from Nikon, the 7x15 would be better for overall general use because its focusing distance can reach farther, but it can still focus on things that are as close as 2 ft.