I agree, 8s are a better all around magnification (though I actually own more 10s than anything else). Really more of a personal preference as to magnification, as long as you don't go over 10. That's the limit for most folks when it comes to holding things steady and, as I well know, as we get older it does get harder to steady a binocular. Just no way I will part with my 10s, but, then, I have plenty of 8s and a few 7s, too.
A lot depends on how much experience you have using binoculars, too. 8s make a lot more sense for a first set of binoculars - 8s are easier to steady and the wider field of view makes finding your target quicker and easier. Moreover, there is nothing that can be seen with a 10x that can't also be seen equally well with an 8x for hunting purposes. If you actually want to start counting points on a rack at 100 plus yards, you'll need a spotting scope, anyway, not a binocular. Going to a 10x won't solve that problem.
I'm with Iowegan on the 7x as a binocular magnification. Unfortunately, the 7x has dropped out of popularity to the point of almost disappearing. I love my 7x binos, but darn few 7s made, anymore and that's a shame. 8x is a great compromise between a 7x and 10x and that's why it is now the most sold binocular magnification.
I love Nikons -always a great buy for your binocular dollar. I have the Monarch 3 10x42 and use it all the time for birdwatching, wildlife watching and even at the range to score pistol targets out to 50 yards. Ca't go wrong with the Monarch.
