Need suggestions for a camera that is "rugged"!!!

[lmtharp630]

My husband is deploying to the sandbox and he would like a camera to take with him. We dont want to spend all that much money on it because it could end up getting broken. Can anyone suggest a certain model that could withstand the harsh conditions my husband is going to face?

Conditions of use will include:
HOT weather, sweat, sand (that is more like dust) and rough handling to include possible dropping.

Preferable features:
preferably under $200; good optical zoom; compact; sturdy; good picture quality.

It would also be great if it could either take AA batteries (which Im not sure if any do anymore) or the extra rechargable batteries aren't very expensive.

Thanks for the help!

[OsmosisStudios]

No AA battery cameras, but you're also unlikely to find much under $200. You've got a few options: Olympus has 2 models (one of which is possibly under your budget limit). Your best option though is the new Nikon 100AW.

[lmtharp630]

It doesn't HAVE to be under $200, that is just perferable. As he might break it with normal day to day movement, so I would want something that is easily replacebable.

[mbrobich]

Fuji also a XP30 camera that is both drop, freeze, sand and water proof.

[mrteacherdude]

The Fuji that mbrobich mentioned looks intriguing. I was originally thinking something like the Canon Powershot D10, but it is a little pricier, older, and only has a 3x zoom. From personal experience though I know they are rugged and one can get good photos.

The following may help you read about the Fuji if you haven't already found something:

Fujifilm FinePix XP30 Review

If you scroll down the page a bit, there is a link for "Main Rivals." That page has a list of other rugged cameras that are comparable. However, the one that OsmosisStudios mentioned is not there. Also, as he suggested, AA batteries is likely to be a problem. Perhaps the vehicles he will be associated with will have power ports so he can plug in an inverter to charge the camera battery?

[sk66]

Originally Posted by mrteacherdude

The Fuji that mbrobich mentioned looks intriguing. I was originally thinking something like the Canon Powershot D10, but it is a little pricier, older, and only has a 3x zoom. From personal experience though I know they are rugged and one can get good photos.

The following may help you read about the Fuji if you haven't already found something:

Fujifilm FinePix XP30 Review

If you scroll down the page a bit, there is a link for "Main Rivals." That page has a list of other rugged cameras that are comparable. However, the one that OsmosisStudios mentioned is not there. Also, as he suggested, AA batteries is likely to be a problem. Perhaps the vehicles he will be associated with will have power ports so he can plug in an inverter to charge the camera battery?

from that page: I'd get the sony or pentax...I own the olympus.