Selecting
the right binocular is a matter of picking the best combination
of features for your particular needs, including magnification,
bulk and weight, brightness, field of view, optical quality, and
cost.
Size : Binocular sizes are
expressed with two numbers: 7x35, 10x50, etc. The first number is
the magnification (or power), the second is the aperture, or
diameter of the objective (front) lenses in millimeters. For
example, 7x35 binoculars provide 7-times magnification and have
35mm objective lenses. For a given magnification, larger
objective lenses yield a brighter image in dim light, but also
result in a bulkier, heavier binocular.
Power :The
higher the power, the "shakier" the image will be,
because small hand movements get magnified. Therefore, its
recommended a binocular of moderate 7x or 8x magnification unless
you have a specific need for more power. Lower-power binoculars
also usually offer a wider field of view, allowing you to take in
more of a scene at one time.
What Will You Do With it?
Hiking If you hike or travel a lot, you’ll want a binocular
that is compact and lightweight, perhaps even weatherproof. An
8x24 or 10x25 would be a good choice.
Birding The most popular models for bird watching are 8x40 and
8x42. They’re small and nimble, offer steady hand-held
views, and have sufficient light grasp to provide bright,
well-resolved images. If you plan to study birds at close range,
look for a binocular with a near-focus distance of a few feet.
Astronomy For stargazing, light grasp is the most important
factor. Choose a binocular with at least a 50mm aperture. A 7x50
model is easily hand-held and provides nice, wide-field views
of starry swaths. The higher-power 10x50 is also popular, and in
fact is preferable to the 7x50 where sky glow is a problem. A
tripod is recommended for a steady view, however.
"Giant" binoculars of 70mm, 80mm, or 100mm aperture
will reveal fainter deep-sky objects and more subtle detail. If
you can afford the higher price (and a good tripod) and don’t
mind the extra bulk, you’ll be rewarded nightly with
incredible views.
Of course, other factors should play into your buying decision
too, such as eye relief, optical coatings, and mechanical
construction email us for more info.