Choosing the right binoculars for the right purpose

Binocular Magnifications and their applications
Figure 4.1 Binoculars Magnifications and their Applications

Astronomy

Astronomy binoculars are generally larger in size due to its wide aperture size. Often you see that the objective lens of an astronomy binoculars are of 50mm or more, this is so that it could gather enough light in dark skies. As some of the larger astronomy binoculars will be tad difficult to hold with hands, it would be best to consider getting yourself a stable tripod for comfortable viewing. Having a tripod would help to ensure you to get steady images especially in very high magnifications.




Birdwatching

When choosing a pair of birdwatching/birding binoculars, it is essential to choose a binoculars with large aperture. This is so because you would be able to view surroundings in a larger field of view with these binoculars, making the task of spotting birds easier. A mid-sized objective lens of around 40mm range should do the job well. The magnification of a binoculars also plays an important part in determining an ideal birdwatching binoculars. With higher magnification, users would be able to view birds in better close-up views or further distances. Magnifications from the range of 8x to 12x is sufficient for a good birdviewing binoculars. As a guide, a nice balance between magnification and aperture for the best birdwatching binoculars would be a steady 8 x 40 binoculars.




Hunting

Every hunters have their own different perception of a good hunting binoculars. Generally, hunters would opt for a standard 8 - 10x magnification with around 40mm aperture range for easy tracking and surveying. Higher magnifications would be beneficial in wide open areas and for long distance aiming. There are also hunters who would opt for a lightweight and portable binoculars for better movement during hunting sessions, but that often means that the binoculars have a smaller objective lens and resulting dimmer images.




Compact

Compact binoculars make an excellent choice for simply bringing around to sightseeing, nature or wildlife observation, camping and travelling. As such, the binoculars should be lightweight and compact enough to easily fit into pockets, bags or luggage. Ideally, the binoculars should be rugged, durable and water-resistant to be used in different weather conditions. Generally, binoculars with 7 - 8x magnification range are suitable for general use and travel, as anything greater will result in unstable images. Objective lenses of 25 - 35mm range will keep them compact while maintaining sufficient level of light-gathering capacity in the day time. If using binoculars in dawn or dusk, you would want objective lenses with 40-50mm range, but keep in mind that the larger the objective lenses, the bulkier the binoculars will be.



Spectator

Generally, avid sports fans and event-goers would usually opt for binoculars with lower magnifications for easier tracking and wider field of view. As spectator or sporting events are usually held in brightly-lit areas, binoculars with small-to-mid sized aperture are usually suffice for bright, clear views. Having a small, compact binoculars is also a plus for users as they are easier to be kept and handle especially in crowded events.



Marine / Boating

It is important to note several key aspects in choosing a good marine binoculars. As you would be in close proximity to waters, it is advisable to get a pair of binoculars that is waterproof, tightly sealed with nitrogen. Pick a pair with high light gathering capacity or large objective lens. Objective lens over the size of 40mm is sufficient enough to yield bright images. Choose binoculars with lower magnification for marine/boating purposes as they would result in less image shakiness as opposed to those with high magnifications. This is especially true when you are in a moving boat with continuous wave motions. Experts believe that a good marine binoculars have a balanced 7x50 specifications range. As water conditions may be rough, it is also recommended to get an Image Stabilization binoculars to counter the shakiness.





Binoculars Testing and Care

Binoculars Testing and Care