Binoculars for Bird Watching - Everything you need

Handy Hints

There is a wide range of binoculars on the market and it can be very confusing to the first time buyer. Here are a few things to think about.

Cost

Decide how much you can afford. But remember that if you buy cheap binoculars that don't work well for you, you will be buying another pair soon! Quality binoculars will last you a lifetime and will definitely enhance your enjoyment of bird watching. Here are some things to think about:

Weight

How long will you have them around your neck before they feel too heavy? Get a good wide strap as this helps spread the load.

Specification

Binoculars are marked to show their magnification and their objective lens measurement (e.g. 8 x 30). The first number means the number of times that the image is magnified and the second number is the size of the objective lens (the ones nearest the bird). The bigger the first number the 'closer' you see the bird (but the narrower the width of what you see). The bigger the last number the more light gets in and the brighter the image (but more expensive the bins).

Lower magnification binoculars have a wider field of view, which allows you to find birds faster and more easily. Higher magnification can make a big difference in discerning the field marks of distant birds. I would recommend a range between 8 - 10 magnification and 30 - 50 objective lens. I personally use 10x 50 binoculars.

Quality

The higher the quality the higher the cost. But if the budget is tight try to get a good second hand pair from your supplier or look on eBay.

Features

Decide what other features are most important to you. To many birders, a wide field of view is essential for finding birds quickly. To others, depth of field or quickness of focusing might be more important. Some binoculars have 'zoom' to alter the magnification. To me, the bottom line is always image quality--nothing can compensate for an image that is not sharp and clear.

Spectacles

If you wear spectacles (or share your bins someone who does), pay special attention to the eyecups. In general, turn-and-lock eyecups are far better than rubber eyecups (which tend to crack from frequent folding). Make sure that you can see a clear image without any of the edges going black (vignetting).

Field Testing

There's no substitute for testing binoculars with your own eyes and hands. If possible, find a store that will allow you to test many models side by side before you buy.

Recommended Suppliers

I would recommend 'In Focus' as they specialise in selling optical equipment for bird watching. I have always found their staff to be very knowledgeable about bird watching and the products that they sell and helpful in suggesting what you should consider. They have outlets at several bird reserves, will let you try before you buy and have a good after sales and repairs service. They have a website and mail order service and their selection of binoculars can be viewed by following this link: In Focus.

I would also recommend Bristol Cameras who have a good range at keen prices--I have used them and they delivered quickly. You can also purchase them from my Online Store.