How to Choose Binoculars

Binoculars come in many sizes and shapes, and prices vary from less than $50 to well over $1,000.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Binoculars Cases
• Lens Cleaner
• Binoculars
• Binoculars Harnesses
• Binoculars Straps

1. Determine the purpose for which you will use the binoculars. Binoculars toted to an occasional sporting event do not need to be as finely crafted as binoculars for birding.
2. Go to the nearest camera, optics or sporting goods store and explain to the sales representative the intended use of the binoculars.
3. Handle a variety of brands and models. Note how heavy and comfortable they are in your hand and how easily and finely they focus. If necessary, ask whether they can be used by persons wearing eyeglasses.
4. Take several pairs outside, if permissible, and try them in various levels of light, including full sun and shade.
5. Focus binoculars as far as you can in both directions, and check clarity of objects in the short and long view.
6. Ask about warranties.
7. Shop around for a good price once you have decided on the binoculars you want. Expensive binoculars often can be found at discount camera or optical stores for hundreds of dollars off the suggested retail price.

Tips & Warnings

• On binoculars, the "formula" is made up of the numbers that tell you the magnifying power and the diameter of the objective lenses. Thus, 7 x 35 indicates that the binocular magnifies seven times and that the diameter of the front lenses is 35 millimeters.
• To get the diameter of the exit pupils, which indicates how much light reaches your eye, divide the diameter of the objective lens by the power of the binoculars. A figure of 4 or 5 provides acceptable brightness.
• Check to be sure that the company warranty applies no matter where you purchase the binoculars.
• Binoculars with straps worn around the neck can cause neck pain. Check on alternative methods, such as harnesses, for carrying.
• If you are going to use binoculars in a location where they may become wet or catch sea spray, consider purchasing rubber-armored binoculars.
• Buy binoculars with coated lenses.

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