So, am thinking I'm about to invest in one of the 'Big Three' as Leica, Swaro and Zeiss seem to be known. Should I also consider Nikon HG-L?

They're a good bit cheaper than the other three (at least here in the UK), are they in the same league?

I will try any before I make a purchase but I thought I'd canvas opinion here too.

Any other thoughts about the relative merits of each of the above would be gratfeully received.

I want them for general birding and am thinking of the 8x42 options of each.

Thanks in advance