Since the OP's father already purchased a pair of binoculars and this thread will serve to help anyone else with the same questions, one thing to keep in mind is fit and function. Everyone likes to compare glass which is of course very important as looking at things is the main reason for binoculars. You also want to look at diopter function, weight, fit in the hand and eyecup comfort.
I sent in an old pair of Leupold binoculars that they could not repair and received a pair of the BX binoculars in exchange. I had read the eyecups were not comfortable but they were essentially free or I could upgrade to a higher model by paying the difference. I'm glad I didn't upgrade because the eyecups absolutely suck. The glass is ok but I cannot get over the eyecups and I am not a picky person.
Someone suggested checking the birding sites. That is an excellent idea. Those people live in their binoculars and the reviews are very comprehensive.