How To Select Binoculars That Are Perfect For You Quickly And Easily
Binoculars, also known as field glasses, are essentially two small telescopes mounted side-by-side.
This design allows the user to see a complete three dimensional image through the binoculars because they are able to use both eyes in viewing distant objects.
This as opposed to the image a typical telescope provides, where you must close one eye and focus through a single lens, thereby losing depth perception.
Though every binocular serves the same general purpose, they come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, depending on your specific needs.
Some of the more popular uses include:
- Astronomy - Lugging around a big telescope just to get a quick gaze at the moon or stars is no longer necessary. Binoculars are available for stargazing that have large objective lenses for gathering a lot of light in the dark and also have a built-in adapter for easy mounting on a tripod.
- Birding - If you're bird watching, you need binoculars that are small and compact enough to easily carry in a coat pocket, yet large enough so the lenses gather ample amounts of light. You also want binoculars that provide a wide field-of-view and the ability to focus close in for near observation.
- Hunting - When it comes to hunting, you need a binocular with higher power lenses since long distances are quite often involved in hunting. You also want a housing that can withstand abuse on the trail.
- Marine - For boating use, the construction of the housing is critical. A waterproof housing that can withstand a lot of abuse and an objective lens that allows for a wide field-of-view are essential features.
Other specialty binoculars include long distance viewing, military, kids, night vision, solar viewing, spectator, and travel, as well as a number of specialty applications.
Some of the more widely known manufacturers are:
- Apogee
- Kahles
- Leupold
- Swarovski
- Vanguard
Once you know more about the features you need in your binoculars, you'll be closer to finding the perfect pair of binoculars for you at the absolute lowest price possible.
