What To Look For
The different types of binoculars are graded by a pair of numbers such as 7x35, 8x42 and 10x50. The first number corresponds to the magnifying rate of the binoculars and the second is the diameter of the objective lens or the front lens in millimeters. The best birdwatching binoculars have a lower magnification allowing for a wider field of vision (determined by the eyepiece design) and a brighter image. Higher magnification binoculars are generally used to view birds from a distance such as raptors and shorebirds or less active birds such as waterfowl. Choose lightweight binoculars for birdwatching that have a lens size between 30 mm to 50 mm. The smallest is 30 mm but still ideal for any birder. The lens coating is another feature to be considered in buying birdwatching binoculars. The lens coating improves image brightness and the fully multicoated lens will give you optimum image brightness. Fully multicoated means all optical components are coated with antireflective materials while multicoated binoculars may only have a single antireflective coated component, according to the website Celestron.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid lens sizes smaller than 30 mm; they are lightweight but allow in less light making it undesirable for low-light conditions such as wooded areas. Lower magnification is best for beginning birders as the field of vision is wider allowing for easier bird tracking. Inexpensive binoculars sacrifice image sharpness for a wider field of vision, so sometimes it's better to opt for higher magnification in a better quality birdwatching binoculars. Avoid purchasing binoculars where the lens is not coated as the image brightness will be inferior.
Where To Buy
Optic specialty stores carry the high-end, better quality binoculars that are best for birdwatching. Sporting goods and outside outfitters also carry birdwatching binoculars and generally have trained personnel who can assist the beginner in what to look for in good binoculars. Purchasing online is an option for gaining more knowledge regarding the appropriate binoculars for your birding needs. You may check out discount and department stores; however, these may not meet specific standards for good birdwatching binoculars.
Cost
Nikon offers a variety of models that are rated best binoculars by value for birdwatching, according to the website Birdwatching-Bliss and are priced anywhere from $95 to $280. Nikon also has the Monarch line of binoculars that are in the mid-price range of about $200 to $500 and are lightweight and waterproof. Higher-end models will run from approximately $500 to $1,000 and include the Zeiss Victory FL 8x42 model.
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