What To Look For
Binoculars come in three size categories: standard, compact and pocket. Standard binoculars are the most powerful and clear, but are often rather heavy and not appropriate for long hikes where pack load matters. Compact binoculars are somewhat smaller but strive to give the same magnification as standard binoculars. Pocket binoculars are very small but you sacrifice some power and clarity. Binocular power is measured by magnification. Levels of eight to 10-times magnification are the most popular with birdwatchers and hunters. For clarity, lens coatings can improve the color of the image in your binoculars, and protect your eyes from UV rays. Among all the optics brands, Nikon and Canon have excellent reputations among birders and sportsmen.
Common Pitfalls
If you are uncomfortable carrying the weight of a good pair of binoculars, they won´t be much use to you in the field. Choose a pair that are light enough to carry comfortably around your neck. Lower end binoculars are often damaged by water, so if you´ll be using yours outdoors, opt for a waterproof pair. When looking at binoculars, you´ll see designations of magnification and lens size. An 8x42 pair, for example, is 8 times magnification with a 42 mm lens. As magnification increases, steadiness wanes, and those higher than 10 will likely require a tripod to keep the image steady. The higher the second number is, the wider the lens, and the more light it lets in. A wider lens will give you increased clarity and more visibility in the early morning and evening when sunlight is lowest.
Where To Buy
You can buy quality binoculars at sports shops and outdoor retailers like Cabela´s and REI. Camera shops like Wolf and local Nikon dealers often carry high-quality binoculars as well, and can order models not in stock for you. If you test several pairs and cannot find precisely what you are looking for, online general merchants like Amazon.com and sporting outlets such as REI.com carry many options.
Cost
You can find binoculars, especially the pocket sized, lower magnification variety, for about $50. Large standard-size binoculars can be found for about $100. For high-quality, waterproof binoculars with between 8 and 10 times magnification, you can expect to invest between $300 and $600.
Comparison Shopping
Aside from the primary manufacturers like Nikon and Canon, there are some smaller name brands that are known for creating quality binoculars. Pentax, Bushnell, and Steiner all have powerful, lightweight binoculars that birders and hunters have reviewed positively over the years. Steiner produces specialty marine binoculars with high-quality glass designed for use on the open water. Pentax has a line of binoculars designed for examining small insects, and has adjustable right and left lenses for maximum focus and image quality.
Accessories
A comfortable strap is paramount to getting the most out of your investment. If your binoculars are somewhat heavy, get a padded strap, or one long enough to hang across your chest rather than off your neck. If you are traveling overland with your binoculars, use a case designed to keep them secure and protected from impact and pressure. Carry special lens cleaning clothes or papers to wipe your optics without scratching the coating or damaging the element. Avoid using clothing or any other cloth to clean your lenses.
Insider Tips
The image in your binoculars should be steady and clear at the distances and light conditions you most commonly work under. It´s not worth it to buy a pair of 12-times magnification binoculars if the image is unstable and useless. Not all binoculars are created equal, however, and you can find high magnification models that are quite steady. Test as many as you can in different lights and at various distances. Once you decide on a pair and make your purchase, keep them clean and in their case whenever they are not in use. Use only lens cloths and manufacturer-approved cleaning solutions to extend the life of your binoculars. Properly cared for, your first good pair of binoculars might be your last.
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