[khyryk]

First get 7x50 or 10x50 binoculars and if you remain interested in observation, move onto an 8 inch dob reflector as your first telescope. I got the Zhumell Z8 for $400 years ago when it considered to be the best deal around, but it might not be sold anymore. The usual options would be from Orion, Apertura, Sky-Watcher, Explore Scientific, etc. for $400-550.

[jtbayly]

In my own personal experience, trying to use binoculars without a tripod is infuriating.

[mcguire]

Agreed. I'm not stable enough to look at wildlife through binoculars.