by Daniel J. Gansle

Created on: June 12, 2008

A quick trip to your local sporting goods or big-box retail store will prove the wide variety of binoculars available today. Some are compact; some are larger; some have zooming capability while others even sport an on-board digital camera for extra close-up shots.

So how to you choose which pair of binoculars is right for observing animals in nature? Let's begin with some binocular basics.

Binoculars 101
When you're looking to purchase that pair of binoculars for animal watching, you'll first notice the "x by x" measurement (i.e. 8x25). The first number represents the magnification, and the second number represents the diameter of the lenses. For example, a pair of 7x35 binoculars means the image you are viewing is 7x closer, and the lens size is 35 millimeters (mm). The larger the lens diameter, the more light is collected which makes objects seem brighter and crisper. However, the lenses (and the entire pair of binoculars) are bulkier.

Now let's talk field of view. Field of view means how much area you can see through the binoculars and is expressed as "xxx feet @ 1000 yards." For example, 200 feet @ 1000 yards will prove a narrow field of view, whereas 400 feet @ 1000 yards is a much wider field of view and you'll see more area through your lenses.

Cheap Lenses and Lens Clarity
Binoculars can be purchased from $14 to several hundred. A good rule of thumb is the old saying, you get what you pay for. Cheaper binoculars contain subpar lenses and prisms, which affect image clarity and brightness. If you want a cheap pair of binoculars just to have on hand or you're a beginner, cheaper binoculars will do just fine. But if you really want to see the exquisite detail nature has to offer, be willing to pay around $150-$200 for a good pair that will astound you.

Tips for Using Your Binoculars
If you opt for higher-powered lenses, say 16x magnification, keep in mind that the image becomes less stable the higher up you go. In other words, it will easily shake when you're holding the binoculars. If this happens, prop your elbows against your body, or lean on the nearest tree or building for extra support. When you first use the binoculars, remember to adjust the main focus in your one eye so it's clear, then adjust the focus on the other eyepiece by twisting it. You won't have a clear view until you do this.

Using binoculars to observe animals in nature is fun and is practiced by hunters and nature lovers alike. Just make sure you are buying the right binoculars for your own nature watching experience, and you'll enjoy them for years to come.

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