Top Tips For Binocular Beginners

Fortunately, binoculars are a simple piece of kit for anyone who wants to be able to see more on their nature walks or birdwatching expeditions, but there are still a few things you should know before you buy a pair of General purpose binoculars.

To help you make a sensible purchase and get the most out of your binoculars, here are some simple top tips:

Buy the best binoculars for your needs

Think carefully about what you’re most likely to use your binoculars for, and this should help you buy a pair that will best suit your needs. From stargazing and birdwatching, to simply exploring your surroundings in greater detail, binoculars can be a wonderful tool for enhancing your visual experience.

Consider what magnification you need

While all lenses have a degree of magnification, knowing how much you’re likely to need, will help you buy a pair within your price range. The greater the level of magnification, the heavier the lenses, and this may mean that you require a tripod to keep them steady when in use.

Think about the terrain

Are you likely to be taking your compact binoculars with you when go rambling? If so, you’ll want to choose a pair that are versatile, lightweight and easy to carry either in a bag, or around your neck.

Make sure your binoculars are comfortable

As it’s likely that you’ll spend a good deal of time with the binoculars fitted against your face when you’re hiking, birdwatching or stargazing, it’s important to choose a pair that are comfortable. Make sure that there’s enough space between the barrels either side of your face, and that your vision isn’t disturbed by the eyecups in any way.

Carefully consider the grip, straps and eyecups when making your choice, as this can have a significant impact on your enjoyment and comfort when using the binoculars.

Train your naked eyes first

It’s not always as easy as it looks, to train the focus of your eyes onto an object or creature in the distance, and it becomes even trickier when the magnification is stronger.

To train your eyes, fix them on whatever it is you want to look at in closer detail, and then bring the binoculars to your face while continuing to stare at the same point. This simple method can be immensely helpful as you get used to using your binoculars when you’re out and about.

Maintain the lenses

Dirty lenses can ruin your chance to spot a rare bird and see it up close, so always clean your lenses before using the binoculars, to make sure you’re always ready for whatever you might see!

Keep them strapped to you

Many brands and models of binocular are sturdy, but a drop from hand height can still damage them beyond repair. To avoid dropping them when you’re scrambling over stiles or running down muddy hillsides in hot pursuit of a rare bird, try to keep the strap securely fastened around your neck, regardless of how tightly you might be gripping them.

Don’t forget to adjust the diopter

This feature is available on all binoculars, and helps you make up for the difference in vision between both eyes. The majority of people have differing vision strengths in their eyes, but by adjusting the dial manually, you can maintain excellent vision at all times.

Binoculars are an easy device to use for anyone, but care should be taken when choosing the right pair for your needs, and you should protect them well by keeping them in their case and hanging them around your neck when you’re out and about.