The different types of binoculars have different purposes. There are binoculars designed for hunters or bird watchers, and there are also those designed to be used even when the environment is dark. Some other types of binoculars are used by marine professionals, while other binoculars are used by astronomers and astronomers. If you are considering purchasing your own binoculars, the following tips will be able to guide you through the things you need to know.
Binocular specifications
The first thing you should know about binoculars is your increase specification. The increase factor is indicated by the number that is written with ‘X’. It is an indication of how close the objects seen under the viewfinder would seem. For example, a binocular with a 10x magnification factor will allow you to see objects ten times closer. Typically, good binoculars that are suitable for general use have a magnification factor of 7x to 12x. A binocular with a higher increase factor should be used with a tripod. For long -range hunting, get a couple of binoculars with a high increase, but it is intended to watch a football match from high seats, it is better to choose a couple of binoculars with a lower increase. The reason for this is related to the field of view which is discussed below.
Field of view refers to the area you see through the binoculars, where a larger field of view reveals a larger area for you to see. This specification is generally expressed in degrees. When their binoculars have a low increase, it tends to see more clear images with a broader field of vision, so this is perfect to see a football match from high seats. On the other hand, with greater increase, the images they sell tend to be more faint and their field of vision is narrower. This type of binoculars is the perfect one if you intend to carry out a long-range hunting activity or spot birds at greater distances.
Another binocular specification to be familiar with is the objective lens diameter, which describes the size of the lens. This is generally indicated in the second two digits after the increase factor. This is a crucial specification because it determines the amount of light that enters through binoculars. For example, if you will be using your telescope in low light conditions, choose binoculars with a larger objective lens diameter. The biggest lenses are also better to be used if you intend to see birds. This is because larger lenses also have a wider field of view, which is great for finding and following the birds you want to watch. However, a five ratio between the increase and diameter of the target lens, such as 7×35, is considered ideal.
In addition to the diameter of the lens, also take note of the quality of the lens and its coating. The former ensures that you can see an image with better contrast, while the latter paves the way for maximum light to enter. Some of the best lenses work well in low light conditions because they transmit more light. These are the type of lenses that you should look for if you are interested in astronomy to allow you to see faint objects such as nebulae and galaxies.
Glass lenses also provide a better image quality, but they can be more expensive than plastic lenses. A pair of binoculars made with ED or extra-low dispersion glass produces the highest quality images. While glass lenses tend to reflect part of the light that enters, this is often compensated with the proper coating. Lens coating is often classified as C, FC, MC and FMC, with C usually being the cheapest variant.
- C indicates a single coating layer, without guarantee, which is covered by the entire surface.
- FC indicates that the entire glass surface of the lens is covered.
- MC indicates that there are certain portions on the lens surface with multiple coatings.
- FMC indicates that the entire glass surface of the lens is covered with multiple layers.
- Weight
Keep in mind that the larger the lens diameter, the heavier your binoculars will be. In general, standard size binoculars have an objective lens diameter of 30mm or more, while compact size binoculars have a smaller diameter. Apart from this, most large binoculars also weigh more than those with a low increase factor. If you plan to travel long distances, the weight of binocular heavy ones that hang from your neck can be a load.
Other factors to consider
- Waterproof or water resistant
In addition to the specifications of the binoculars, they must consider other special characteristics, as if it is waterproof or water resistant. The former is perfect if you intend to go whitewater rafting or skiing, where your binoculars tend to get wet most of the time. On the contrary, a water resistant pair is already enough if it does not plan to use its binoculars in adverse climatic conditions.
First -line binoculars are often more expensive than others. This is because they tend to be more durable and also produce higher quality images. But you do not have to worry because there are cheaper binoculars that will perfectly suit your needs. The important thing is to obtain the best torque within its established budget.
In order to buy the appropriate binoculars for their purpose, you must observe well the properties of the binoculars, such as their increase, the quality of the lens, the lining and the diameter, as well as their field of vision. Apart from this, also consider the weight of binoculars and other special characteristics, as if it is water resistant or not. Choose the binocular specifications according to the use you are going to give and you will surely end up buying the appropriate binoculars for you.