Important Factors To See Before You Buy A Birding Binocular
Important tips before you buy:
Weight:
To hold the binoculars properly it’s better to buy a lighter binocular. Easier to hold better the view.
Exit Pupil:
This is the size of the image at the focusing point of the binocular. It is computed by dividing the objective size by the magnification. The exit pupil of an 8×40 binocular is 5mm (40/8). A larger exit pupil means a brighter image. Binoculars over 3mm are considered good for daytime birding and anything over 7mm is a waste.
Eye relief:
Eye relief is the distance from the rear eyepiece lens to where the image is formed. Eyeglass wearers should look for binoculars with at least 15mm of eye-relief and have eye-cups that can be folded down. This will allow them to enjoy bird-watching.
Close Focus:
Good birding binoculars should have a close focus of 10 feet or less otherwise you may find yourself walking backwards to try and see something. How close a binocular focuses depends on how it is made rather than on its power.
Body Design:
There are two basic types. i) Porro prism Binoculars and, ii) Roof prism binoculars. Roof prisms are lighter, rugged, easier to maintain and usually waterproof. Porro prism binoculars are cheaper, Optical quality is not markedly different though roof prisms being more expensive usually have better coating.
Binoculars are what makes bird-watching pleasurable – so invest in the best that you can afford, they are sure to give you years of memorable moments.
