What To Look For
Field binoculars help you scan the landscape and spot distant landmarks and wildlife. Look at the two main numbers on every binoculars, such as 10x50. To keep the field of view wide for scanning, look for a low first number, which refers to the magnification power. William J. Cook, an optical expert who once worked for the U.S. Navy, recommends a power of 7x or 8x for comfortable viewing.
The second number identifies the size of the front lenses, or aperture. If you plan to use binoculars at night, look for large aperture numbers to let in lots of light, such as 40 to 55 mm. If you prefer to keep binoculars mid-sized and lightweight for carrying on long hikes, look for apertures between 30 and 40 mm, as REI's binocular guide recommends.
Common Pitfalls
Don't forget to buy waterproof binoculars for outdoor use, even if you plan to keep them out of the rain. According to Cook, when temperatures fluctuate, binoculars draw in moisture that can cause damage. Make sure you consider eye relief, which refers to how far from your face you can hold a binocular during viewing. This is especially pertinent if you wear glasses that prevent you from holding your face directly to the binocular or if you plan to use the binocular in the sun when you wear sunglasses.
Where To Buy
Local stores such as Best Buy and REI sell binoculars, though selection is limited in some outlets. Canon, Nikon and Olympus also sell binoculars, and their company names guarantee high quality products. Online stores such as Eagle Optics and Binoculars.com have the widest selection, though shoppers may want to get a hands-on feel for binoculars in a store before purchasing.
Cost
While the most expensive models go for several hundred dollars, shoppers on a budget can easily find a binocular for under $100. Cook warns that the price of a binocular is a fair judge of their quality. Most mid-range options cost between $150 and $300, depending on the brand and size.
Comparison Shopping
All binoculars are either traditional Porro prisms or modern roof prisms. Porro prisms have an asymmetrical styling that makes them heavier than roof prisms. They are well-made for field use, as they provide the best depth perception, according to Cook. Meanwhile, roof prisms have a straight design that makes them lightweight and comfortable for carrying long distances. They tend to be pricier than Porro prisms due to the high cost of building their complicated design.
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