How to Shop for Optic Accessories

The world of high-tech optics is continually evolving, and along with new, feature-rich cameras, binoculars, telescopes and other optics come some interesting accessories. Enhance the quality of photography, wildlife observation or astronomical viewing with lens, filter and extension add-ons. Secure your instrument for comfortable, steady viewing with a quality tripod, or find the right cleaning supplies for delicate lens and digital glass materials. Accessories make the most of your optics.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Model numbers

Shop for Optical Lens Accessories

1. Compare the quality of removable eyepieces for telescopes and cameras. Superior quality and higher price will mean multiple lenses to correct for the five major sight aberrations. Shop for eyepieces that tout a double-sided, anti-glare protective coating on all lenses and those that promise the greatest eye relief.
2. Buy photographic or astronomical color lens filters to create effects or enhance contrast and celestial viewing. Select single filters for specific visual objectives, or consider a manufacturer's set for versatility.
3. Turn your camera into a telescope or vice versa when you buy a T-mount and camera adapter that allows you to attach a telescope eyepiece to a camera. Approach a dealer with your instrument's model number to find compatible pieces.

Shop for Structural and Maintenance Accessories

4. Shop for tripods with your optical instrument in mind. Binocular viewing requires a more upright standing posture than other optics and needs a taller tripod. You should also take into consideration the weight of the instrument when browsing for a tripod.
5. Look for cleaning and carrying supplies for your optic. You should search for cleaning products that are non-toxic and won't leave a residue. You also need to choose optic and lens cases that will protect your instrument and accessories from shock and will keep dust and moisture out.

Tips & Warnings

• Optic devices that can be enhanced by additional lenses or other accessories include: binoculars, camcorders, digital, optical and cell-phone cameras, microscopes, night-vision scopes, spotting scopes and telescopes.
• Shop for optics accessories online or at a camera or optics shop.
• "Eye relief" involves the relationship between the eye, the telescope's "eye" lens and the viewing field. This is an important aspect for comfortable use of the instrument, and more expensive lenses usually incorporate more generous eye relief.
• Not all accessories are compatible with all optics. You can avoid purchasing the wrong part for your optical lens by consulting your owner's manual, checking the accessory packaging or consulting with a knowledgeable optics salesperson.

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