50mm vs 85mm

How would results differ for each of these two lenses? Would both be suited for outdoor photography as well?

The angle of view between the two wouldn't be that much different. The 50mm, because it's a bit wider, would probably be better suited for most landscape shots than the 85. The 85mm would do better for natural looking portraits.

I'm definitely looking for more of a portrait type lens. Is the lens good for general use as well? Thanks for the information.

You're using a D70, right? What a memory... or not... I'll find out...

If that's the case, then the effective focal length of a 50 is really 75 and an 85 is really about a 130. The 85-105 range is classic for portraits, and a 50 would be closest to that. When you get to 130, that's still a very usable range but more for head and shoulders, or if you have more distance between yourself and the subject. A fast 85 prime (on a DSLR) is great at a concert when you can get pretty close to the stage. I'd vote for a 50 as long as you're using it on the DSLR. If it's film it's still a good choice - Henri Cartier-Bresson probably shot 97% of the time with a 50.