What To Look For
Monoculars, also called spotting scopes, are basically a small, handheld, low-powered telescope, according to the website Optics Planet. Monoculars are excellent for bird watchers to carry with them at all times as they are so compact. In shopping for a monocular the first number is the amount of magnification. The higher the number the more difficult it is to handle, therefore is the particular instance more is not necessarily better. The most practical magnification for a monocular is 5x or 6x, giving you're a wide field of vision and making it easier to steady. The second number of a monocular is the objective size of the size of the front lens. Keep in mind when shopping for a monocular that the larger the second number the heavier the monocular will be. To keep it smaller and more compact a 5 by 15 monocular is the most practical and measures approximately no larger than your thumb.
Common Pitfalls
The basic concept of carrying a monocular as opposed to binoculars is the compact size and weight. Avoid a small field of vision which corresponds with the higher magnification. The wider the field of vision the smaller the magnification the more compact the monocular. Avoid lens coatings that are not fully multi-coated which gives you the brightest image. Also check the eye relief or the distance your eye is from the eyepiece, and the close focus which is the minimum distance the monocular will focus on an object. If you wear glasses it is best to not forget to consider the appropriate eye relief; and opt for close focus measured in inches as opposed to yards.
Where To Buy
Optical stores and camera specialty stores are excellent places to shop for a monocular and you can generally receive professional assistance with your selection. Shopping online gives you a chance to compare prices and get the best value for your money. Outside outfitters and sporting goods stores are another option where you may receive trained personnel to assist you with your purchase. Discount and department stores will carry the monocular in their sporting goods section.
Cost
According to the website Trails, a good monocular for beginners costs approximately $100 whereas the higher-end models can be priced more in the $500 range. The Trekker Monocular and the Orion 10 by 42 Waterproof Monocular are both priced at approximately $50. The Brunton Eterna Monocular has an estimated price of $98 and is rated a good value for the money. The Leica 8x20 Monovid Monocular is a high-end model that sells for approximately $500.
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