I have had the stabilized Canon IS for about 6 years. When I first got them I thought they were the ant's pants. They are particularly good if the platform you are on is jumping around..a speed boat is a very good example where they really shine over non-stabs. But, I found that if you are stable that the stabilizing function actually slightly degrades the image (probable tiny vibration associated with imperfect rotating bits and bearings).
My current favourites are a second hand pair of basic Steiner Military/Marine rugged 7 x 10 with huge lens and don't require any focusing after you set the diopter corrections for your eyes. Beautiful clear and bright optics and are an absolute pleasure to use. They are short and fat, strong as buggery but would be rather heavy to transport in a nav bag!
Check them on ebay.