thebinocularsguide

[thebinocularsguide]

Essential And Nonessential Telescope Accessories

Telescopes are instruments used primarily to study the stars and other heavenly bodies, but they also have other diverse applications such as rifle scopes. There are numerous telescope accessories in the market with some being essential to the mechanism of the telescope, and others being luxury additions. Mounts and tripods are some of the essential telescope accessories. Interestingly though, there are telescopes that do not come with the tripod and mount. Below is a list of telescope accessories that any stargazing enthusiast should have in their possession.

List Of Telescope Accessories

Mirror Images:

Mirror Images

Image orientation doesn’t really matter in astronomy. Telescopes usually present upside-down or inverted images. This has been a challenge right from the days of Galileo who invented the first telescope. Advances in technology have resulted in prism diagonals that are used to right the image. When Cassegrain and refractor telescopes are paired up with the standard 90° star diagonal the resulting image is usually mirror reversed and right-side-up. This presents problems pertaining to the use of star charts. This problem is also corrected using the erecting prisms. Erecting prisms, however, do not work with refractor telescopes.

Prisms are therefore an essential telescope accessory since a telescope user will run into mirror images at some point. However, mirror images become a problem only when you intend to use printed materials as navigation aids. There are computerized telescopes that are able to flip the mirror images and are therefore easier to use especially when tracking planets and constellations.

Barlow Lenses:

Barlow Lenses

Astronomy telescopes have objective lenses which help in the gathering of light and the creation of a well focused and sharp image. The telescope’s eyepiece magnifies the object to be viewed and is composed of several lenses. Older telescopes used to have a relay system which was used for correcting mirrored images. As a result, these telescopes used to be quite long. Currently, erecting prisms have replaced the relay system resulting in shorter and more powerful telescopes.

Barrow lenses are vital telescope accessories since they increase the focal length of the primary mirror or objective lens. They also double or triple the magnification power of the eyepiece. Achromatic lenses are double layered glass used as objective lenses in most telescopes. They eliminated rainbow images as well as the distorted ones. The distortion is usually associated with non-achromatic lenses.

According to the American Astronomical Society (AAS), superior telescopes are not necessarily designated by the power of the objective lens. Astronomers pay little attention to a telescope’s magnification power. Apart from being able to identify achromatic lenses, it is also vital that your telescope is equipped with an optical coating. This allows for maximum light intake which directly impacts the clarity of the image to be viewed.

Telescope Eyepieces:

Telescope Filters

The eyepiece in a telescope has to gather as much light as possible if you are to view clear images. This telescope accessory is governed by the telescope’s f-ratio. Telescopes bearing an f-ratio of f/10 are able to produce a clear image without the use of a specific eyepiece. However, telescopes that bear a rating of f/4 will need a special kind of eyepiece. The eye relief is an important aspect when shopping for a telescope eyepiece. It is the distance that separates the eyepiece lens and your eye. By and large, the eye relief determines whether or not you are able to have a good field of view. If you wear eyeglasses, the recommended eye relief is 15mm. The field of view of the eyepiece is calculated from the eyepiece’s apparent view divided by the magnification of the eyepiece. Magnification of the eyepiece may not be all that important when buying an eyepiece for your telescope; however, it has to be considered nonetheless.

Once you have a good idea of the magnification level that you desire, then figuring out the focal length of the eyepiece becomes rather easy. The eyepiece is indeed one of the most important telescope accessories as it houses the aperture which lets in light for a clear image. The exit pupil and power/inch are two important factors that determine the size of the aperture. The amount of light rays leaving the eyepiece is what forms the exit pupil.

Telescope Filters:

Telescope Filters

These telescope accessories are purchased along with the eyepieces. Telescope filters are not vital to the functioning of the telescope. They are screwed onto the eyepiece barrel and greatly enhance the stargazing experience. There are three main types of telescope filters; light-pollution filter, colored filter and moon filter.  Colored filters are responsible for enhancing planetary and lunar details. They have varying colors which greatly reduce wavelength distortion that usually results in blurred images. Light pollution filters block out sodium and mercury vapor and allow in oxygen III and hydrogen beta which are wavelengths from deep space. The moon filter accentuates lunar details by limiting lunar light.

Solar filters enable the risk-free observation of the sun by filtering out approximately 99.9 percent of solar light. You get to view the blazing sun without risking serious damage to the eyes or even blindness. Variable-polarizing filters function just like a dimmer switch. They lessen the amount of light coming in from overly bright cosmological bodies by as much as 40 percent. They are equipped with a rotating filter. Generally, filters are best suited for people who are interested in studying the sun or anyone who wishes to observe the stars more closely.

Telescope Mountings:

Telescope Mountings

Amateur telescopes are usually mounted with equatorial and altazimuth mounts. As mentioned previously, mounts are vital telescope accessories. Observing the different constellations and other cosmological bodies would be virtually impossible without the support of the mounts. The Dobsonian mount is categorized under altazimuth mounts. It is wooden and quite sturdy. Altazimuth mounts are synonymous with amateur astronomers. They have horizontal and vertical motion axes also known as azimuth and altitude respectively. Its build is similar to a typical camera tripod. They are cheap and easy to use.

Equatorial mounts, on the other hand, are used extensively by professionals and hobbyists. They can be motorized for automated sky tracking. Some telescope accessories are a must-have while others are just fun to have. The non-vital telescope accessories can be acquired in any order, and it would depend on your passion and level of knowledge in astronomy.

The post Essential And Nonessential Telescope Accessories appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr

[thebinocularsguide]

Vintage Opera Glasses – Look Marvelous And See Clearly

Vintage Opera Glasses

If you have ever been stuck in the “nosebleed section” at a concert or other performance, you know how frustrating it is to strain to see the action.

Whether you are at a concert, an opera, a ballet performance or a Broadway show, sitting far away from the stage can diminish your enjoyment of the event. Opera glasses are a stylish and effective way to get you closer to the main event without having to pay for seats that are more expensive.

Opera glasses are like the more refined cousins of binoculars. Whereas binoculars are associated with sports and the outdoors, opera glasses are better suited for indoor conditions. The magnification of opera glasses is a bit weaker than sport binoculars: usually approximately three times magnification. Unlike binoculars that typically come in black or olive drab, opera glasses come in endless colors and myriad styles to complement what you (or your date) are wearing.

Vintage Opera Glasses

Some of the most impressive opera glasses are those from long-past eras. Vintage Opera glasses bring to mind simpler times when, instead of crowding around a television, those interested in culture attended live shows. The women brought along their long-stemmed, brightly colored opera glasses and daintily held them to their eyes. The men sported equally elegant eyepieces, perhaps with a chain to keep them close at hand.

The elegant styles of yesteryear can still be found today. Vintage Opera glasses are extremely popular among those who want to bring back some of the glamour of previous decades. Vintage or retro styles of opera glasses tend to be ornate and sport decorative flourishes, as opposed to the more streamlined modern styles. They may include mother of pearl accents or even semi-precious stones or jewels. Their colors range from classic white or sophisticated black to playful reds, purples and other jewel tones.

Brass Binocular Mother of Pearl – Antique Opera Binocular By NauticalMart

For your next date night, consider taking in a stage show just like the sophisticated people of the past. It is a romantic way to spend an evening and a wonderful excuse to dress up. A great pair of vintage Opera glasses is the perfect accessory to top off a formal outfit. They go particularly well with fancy gowns and 1930s-style suits. You and your significant other can dress up and head off to the symphony, ballet or opera. Even if you cannot sit in the first few rows you will not miss a moment of the action.

The post Vintage Opera Glasses – Look Marvelous And See Clearly appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr

[thebinocularsguide]

Carson VP Series Full Sized and Compact Waterproof and Fogproof Binoculars

Carson is famous for designing high quality binoculars that gives you the best value for your money. The VP series is not an exception. The VP Series from Carson are usually phase coated and both fog and water proof! This gives them the ability to be usefully in adverse climatic conditions without the fear of ruining them.

These stylish and sleek binoculars all feature fully multi-coated optics and BAK4 prism’s optics for crystal clear viewing and crispy sharp images. The Carson VP series full sized, compact fog and waterproof binoculars are the ideal choice for hunters, bird watchers, hikers, campers, and participants of various sporting activities. Each VP series binoculars comes with a neck strap, pouch , lens covers and cloth.

In a hurry? Read other reviews and price on Amazon

Key features of the Carson VP Series Full Sized and Compact Waterproof and Fogproof Binoculars

Wide field of view – The Carson VP series family gives you a very wide field of view of about 273 at an amazing 1,000 yards. The minimum focus of these binoculars is a whooping 9.8 feet and an extra eye relief of 16.5mm. At this field of view, you get a crystal clear image projection.

A 10x zoom objective lens with a diameter of 25mm – This is the cream of the binoculars. The 10x magnification allows you to get a clear image of object that a far away.

Fully Multi-coated and phased to give your binoculars additional protection for durability.

BAK-4 Prisms -This BAK-4 prism will make sure that you get crispy ,crystal clear images with high quality eyepieces, wide field curvature, high quality internal light baffling and prism housing.

Waterproof -This binoculars is waterproof, with the Carson VP series, rain will not prevent you from participating in your outdoor hobbies such as birding, hiking or hunting.

Fog proof – These binoculars are amazing, they are fog proof, you don’t have to worry about using them during foggy weather, they will work just fine. This feature is especially use full to the hunters, hikers and campers who understant the importance of a clear view during foggy weather

Say goodbye to fog and rain restricted binoculars viewing

With the new Carson VP series full sized water proof and fog proof binoculars, you will have the ability to participate in your favourate outdoor activity without any climatic restrictions. This binoculars is both water and fog proof, allowing you to get crystal clear veiwing event in foggy weather conditions. Give these binoculars a try and step up your hunting game. The deers will not outsmart you even if its raining or foggy, you will always have a clear shot!

Find more reviews and price on Amazon

amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_enable_interest_ads = "true"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "thebinocularsguide-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "auto"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_fallback_mode = {"type":"search","value":"carson binoculars"}; amzn_assoc_default_category = "All"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "6e4d6862a1f21c7c7c47b62007759617";

The post Carson VP Series Full Sized and Compact Waterproof and Fogproof Binoculars appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr

[thebinocularsguide]

Carson 3D ED Binocular Review – As Good As They Say?

See what others users say…

Carson 3D Series High-Definition Waterproof Binoculars with ED Glass

The post Carson 3D ED Binocular Review – As Good As They Say? appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr

[thebinocularsguide]

Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB Waterproof/Fogproof Binoculars

Introduction to the Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB Waterproof/Fogproof Binoculars Review

  Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB Waterproof/Fogproof Binoculars

The world is a beautiful place full of breath taking sceneries and places to have extreme adventure. To really enjoy this beauty you need a great pair of binoculars to complement your adventure. Binoculars that won’t give in to the extremities of nature or to the varying weather cycles while at the same time giving to you vivid natural viewing experience. The Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB Waterproof/Fogproof binoculars are perfect for you.

  The brighter the better

Reflection in binoculars is the leading cause of loss of light. Nikon tackled this reflection issue with multilayer-coated lenses. This lenses ensure that Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB has higher light transmittance across the entire visible light spectrum. The end result, a clearer and more natural view that mimics the experience of viewing with the naked eye.

So light yet so durable

Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB is built with extreme adventures in mind. Its durability is due to the fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate resin that makes it light enough to make portability a non-issue but also durable to withstand your adventure demands.

Comfort even in the woods

Having adventures in the woods does not have to be uncomfortable. Nikon took the time to consider your viewing comfort with two distinct features. High-Eye point Design is a feature that provides a clear field of view even when the user is wearing eyeglasses. This design leaves enough space between the eye and the eyepiece to ensure maximum comfort. If you like adjusting the eye relief of your binoculars, the Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB has got you covered. The binoculars comes equipped with turn-and-slide multi-click rubber eye-cups which allow you to adjust the eye relief to your heart’s desire or in this case, your eye’s desire. All this to ensure viewing comfort at its best.

Come rain, come fog

The Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB Waterproof/Fogproof as the name suggest is both waterproof and fogproof. This is achieved by filling Nitrogen into the binoculars and sealing the O-ring completely. Forget the weather forecast, with this binoculars, its always a good day for viewing.

Bottom Line

Nikon gave its best of effort in this latest iteration of Prostaff with well thought features that undoubtedly enhance the viewing experience. If you are the adventurers type or simply looking for quality binoculars that are waterproof, fogproof with clear and bright viewing experience while at the same time maintaining a light weight and durable design, you certainly won’t go wrong with the Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB Waterproof/Fogproof.

See pricing on Amazon

The post Nikon Prostaff 5 10×50 ATB Waterproof/Fogproof Binoculars appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr

[thebinocularsguide]

The Best Hunting Binoculars Reviews and Buying Guide 2016

Introduction

When you’re out hunting, a great pair of binoculars can help you augment your vision, keep an eye out for threats, make sure that you know the difference between male and female animals and ensure fewer mistakes when you zero in on potential targets. It is little wonder, then, that when it comes to equipment that gets the job done, many hunting enthusiasts put their hunting binoculars right up there alongside their rifles.

You certainly couldn’t go wrong if you were willing to drop $3,000 on a pair of Leica Geovid 10 x 42 HD Laser Rangefinder binoculars or a pair of Swarovski EL. Barring such extravagances, though, you do need to put in a bit of homework to know how to locate the best unit for your usage. Here is a list that is constantly getting great feedback from folks in the field.

Binoculars Comparison Guide

BinocularsField of View (@1,000 Yards)WeightEye ReliefReviews Zeiss Terra ED 8×42 Binoculars375 Feet1.59 Pounds18mm Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 Binoculars330 Feet1.34 Pounds19.5mm Vortex Diamondback 8×42 Binoculars420 Feet1.58 Pounds18mm Carson 3D Series HD Binoculars with ED Glass330 Feet1.44 Pounds19.5mm Celestron 71422 Cavalry 7×50 GPS Binoculars394 Feet1.97 Pounds23mm Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x 42mm Roof Prism Binoculars340 Feet2.28 Pounds15.2mm Swarovski SLC 10×42 Binoculars330 Feet3.80 Pounds16mm

Best Hunting Binoculars Reviews 2016

Zeiss Terra ED 8×42 Binoculars

Zeiss has a reputation as one of the premium optic manufacturers. And for good reason. These Zeiss binoculars are incredibly bright and clear, and would work well for most hunting trips. The wide angle lens helps ensure that you get to see a better field a view than some other choices and that can be a really helpful feature when you are stalking deer out in the field. The Terra ED is also ruggedly constructed and has great ergonomics. The focus is like butter. These sport a 18 millimeter eye relief, so it will work if you wear spectacles or sunglasses while hunting.

See pricing on Amazon

Roll over image to zoom in Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 8×42 Binocular (Black)

Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 Binoculars

The Nikon Monarch series of binoculars has a stellar reputation. And while they are very high-quality binocs, they are outstanding for the money. The value these binoculars offer is why they make the cut. The lenses are fully multicoated, it’s packed with features that are found in higher priced options, and it’s encased in a durable rubber. The versatility of this pair is legendary. The extended eyecups and ergonomics are great. The weight is also a benefit, as these weigh less than some similarly featured competitors’ options. They are also very easy to use. Overall, the Monarch’s are great options if you are looking for a first serious pair of binocs.

See pricing on Amazon

Vortex Optics New 2016 Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars

Vortex Diamondback 8×42 Binoculars

These binoculars are great for hunting. They come with Vortex’s Unlimited Lifetime Warranty which is fully transferable and doesn’t even require you keeping track of the receipt. The Diamondback is very rugged, and waterproof. It has a 16 millimeter eye relief adjustment, so they work well if you have glasses as well. The 10×42 weighs 24.4 ounces, so The lenses are also fully multicoated. These binoculars also feature phase corrected prisms. The center focus of the Diamondback binoculars is very smooth to operate and is located in a convenient place. Vortex Diamondback binoculars also come with a hard carry case to keep them safe as well.

See pricing on Amazon

Carson 3D Series High Definition Waterproof Binoculars with ED Glass

Carson 3D Series HD Binoculars with ED Glass

The Carson series of HD binoculars have numerous top features that you would expect in a quality product. Besides the phase correction coating on the prism glass and the multicoated lenses, the Carson 3D series also comes with ED glass. The other great feature of the Carson 3D series is that it is perhaps one of the lightest binocular models on the market. It is easy to use and can be used for a variety of outdoor activities.

The binoculars are both water and fog proof and have as solid single bridge design. The Carson 3D series binoculars are easy to hold and the central focussing wheel is easy to reach without having to adjust the grip or look away from the sight of vision. The external framework of the Carson 3D series is fortified with strips of rubber armoring which protect the device from scratches and knocks. Further, the rubber coating also provides a firm grip in all weather conditions. Importantly, the eye cups are covered with a soft but thick rubber coating that provides a comfortable feel even when using the binoculars for prolonged periods. However, the most important innovation in the Carson 3D series binoculars is the quality of optics. The use of

The use of extra-low dispersion (ED) glass provides a wide range of options, minimizes artifacts and improves the brightness of an image even at a distance. The multiple layers of antireflective coating also allow for the binoculars to perform in low light with great resolution. The introduction of high definition optical coating in this series has made it one of the best binoculars on the market. The Carson 3D series binoculars are a worthwhile investment for both professionals and amateurs. For all its fancy gadgets, it is a relatively inexpensive device. Accessories that come with it include a neck strap, binocular harness, lens cover and a carry case.

See pricing on Amazon

Celestron 71422 Cavalry 7×50 GPS Binocular (Olive Green)

Celestron 71422 Cavalry 7×50 GPS Binoculars

One of the most rugged binoculars on the market is the Celestron Cavalry 7×50. Because of it sturdiness and durability, the Celestron cavalry is widely used by law enforcement, military personnel, hunters, boaters and sailors. The Celestron has been designed to withstand a range of environmental hazards. This includes dust, rain, snow, ice, heat and frigid temperatures. The binoculars are fully water and fog proof. The external framework of the Celestron is covered with a tough rubber armoring that not only protects the binocular from scratches but also makes it easy to grip the device under slippery conditions.

The other feature of the Celestron Cavalry is the olive drab coloring which is useful when you are trying to conceal yourself or the instrument. Other features of the Celestron Cavalry include the high grade BaK-4 prism and multicoated lens which offer pristine vision and bright images. A remarkable feature of this unique binocular is that it also features a fully integrated GPS, reticle, and a digital compass. The compass is designed so that it will help you assess the direction of objects in relation to your location. The reticle will help you determine the distance and size of the object you are trying to view.

Even though the Celestron Cavalry can be used in any open area, it is most useful when you are out on water. The Celestron Cavalry is very easy to use and allows easy adjustments of the central focus with the fingers. With its wide viewing field it is considered to be one the best binoculars out there. Anyone who intends to buy the Celestron Cavalry should know that there are government export restrictions. You can use this device anywhere on mainland USA but are not allowed to take it abroad or sell it to anyone outside continental USA. Accessories that come with the Celestron Cavalry include the lens caps, strap, rain guard and a carrying case.

See pricing on Amazon

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism Binocular

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x 42mm Roof Prism Binoculars

The Bushnell 10 x 42 Legend Ultra HD Binocular Realtree AP Camo is very versatile and durable device. Its features include a roof prism, central focus and good resolution. The Bushnell Legend HD is a very rugged binocular and is primarily suited for the outdoors person who likes to hunt and go shooting in the forests. The Bushnell Legend HD is both fog and water proof. On a cold day, even your own breath will not fog up the lenses.

The external features consist of a metal frame which does make the device slightly heavy but this is a requirement when you venture in dense forest areas. The external surface has a rugged beauty which also camouflages the binoculars. The ED glass ensures that the image will be bright and free of any artifacts. Further the ED glass also helps to correct any chromatic aberration when viewing dark objects against a bright background. The multicoated lenses with antireflective coating offer superb light transmission.

The focussing of the Bushnell is easy even when mobile. The rigid eyecups are made of a plastic material that does not cause any eye strain even after prolonged use. Even under rough environmental conditions, the Bushnell legend HD is easy to grasp. Other accessories that come with the Bushnell legend HD include lens covering, a hard case, a harness and a neck strap. The Bushnell Legend HD is most effective as a binocular during daylight. It has the ability to distinguish dark objects from bright background very easily. The Bushnell Legend is an ideal device for someone who has never owned binoculars before. This particular device is relatively easy to use, has good functional value and is perhaps one of the cheapest binoculars on the market. With all these features, it is hard to find an equal competitor on the market.

See pricing on Amazon

Swarovski SLC 10×42 W B

Swarovski SLC 10×42 Binoculars

The Swarovski SLC 10 x 42 binoculars stand at the top of the heap when it comes to bird watching and hunting. The latest generation of the Swarovski SLC are exactly what the company says- slim, light and compact. The newer models have HD with thinner and shorter ocular tubes. The magnesium chassis just below the armouring has made the newer models a lot lighter than the older ones. Swarovski SLC also comes with upgrades in glass, coating and optical resolution. Other minor innovations include an improved diopter adjustment mechanism and a better focussing system. The Swarovski SLC 10- x 42 has excellent image brightness with superb contrast between colors.

The eyepieces have been made ergonomically designed to enhance comfort. The external surface of the Swarovski SLC is also coated with a special material that prevents accumulation of water or dust particles. The multilayered coasting on the lens significantly improves the color spectrum at all intensities of light. The binoculars are completely sealed and purged with nitrogen which makes them both dust and fog proof.

The latest Swarovski SLC also includes a dig binning adaptor which allows you to attach a point and shoot digital camera to the device. While this can turn the binoculars in a great telephoto lens for the camera, it does take practice to be good at using it. Other great features of the Swarovski SLC include a hard surfaced cap which protects the lens surface at all times. Other accessory features include the rain guard, a strap and a case. Unlike the older generations, the new Swarovski SLC is probably the best binocular for functional use and aesthetics. These binoculars are pretty darn good. The razor sharp images and a solid feel of the devices make them the best binoculars on the market today. Watching nature with them will transfer you into another dimension with a surreal feel.

See pricing on Amazon

Hunting Binocular Optics

If you are looking for the best binoculars for hunting, you have to consider many factors.

The first consideration is magnification power. How much magnification do you need? This is determined by the ocular lenses, which are the lenses close to your eyes, and they are critical to magnification power. The fundamental tradeoff here is the more the magnification, the less field of view. For most hunting purposes, 8x or 10 x will fit the bill. Most people recommend 8x if you will be hunting in the woods, where timber or other obstacles. If you are a hunter in the west, where you are shooting at longer ranges with less obstacles, you may want to opt for the 10x and additional magnification.

Field of view should also be considered when picking out a pair of binoculars for hunting. Generally, wide angle is considered greater than 7 degrees, with 5-7 degrees being standard field of views. If you are curious to find out more on what magnification does to field of view, you can calculate the impact that magnification has on field of view at different distances using this formula.

The second consideration is how much light you need. This increases with the size of the objective lens. The larger the objective lens, the more light the binoculars will let in. For hunting applications, you will want a large enough objective lens diameter to let in the light you will need for hunting at dawn and dusk. Please remember that the tradeoff here is weight. Most hunters with standard hunting outings around dawn and dusk will do well with a 42 millimeter objective. This is because a 42 millimeter objective will pull in significantly more light than compact binoculars.

Overall, both 8×42 and 10×42 options are great general purpose binoculars for hunting. Here are some great options with these specifications that are favorites of hunters.

Another thing you will have to consider is how much moisture the environment you will be in has. Consider waterproof binoculars if you are in anything more than dew or under an umbrella in a rain. Especially so if you are out in the elements hunting in austere conditions.

If you wear eyeglasses, consider binoculars with a longer eye relief. Binoculars with less than a 15 millimeter eye relief could be a problem for you if you wear sunglasses as well.

Coatings on the lenses will help the binocular retain brightness, as the light won’t bounce back. Fully multi-coated lenses are the best, but coatings are available in a variety of options, and you may not benefit in your use.

Before we dig into the specifics and technical specifications, here’s a great video from hunter Ron Spomer about “How to Choose the Best Binocular for You.”

The size of the objective lens

Contrary to what many people believe, binoculars do not achieve their effect primarily by magnifying the subjects in their field of view. Rather, their primary function is to collect far more light from the subject than your eyes could ever admit, and make it all available for your eyes. This function is especially important, considering the fact that most hunting goes on in low-light situations — early in the morning or late in the evening.

The size of the primary objective lens is of primary importance to the kind of jobs that a pair of binoculars is able to do. The larger the lens, the clearer and sharper the image.

Manufacturers do offer different levels of quality in lens coatings and other essential optics such as the inbuilt prisms. It’s important to invest as much of your money in getting the biggest objective lens that you can afford. And that you can comfortably carry. Models with 42 mm objective lenses offer the best results; you can go as low as 22 mm with reasonable results, though.

Understand that magnification isn’t necessarily the most  important thing

Once the objective lens collects light from a given subject, the subject is small and distant. Magnification is needed to allow you to be able to clearly see it. This is the job of the magnification lens.

If the objective lens does a poor job of collecting light, though, the magnification will likely be no good. In general, binoculars should have eightfold magnification. Binocular makers usually express objective lens and magnification numbers next to each other in the form 8×42 or 6×22.

High-tech lens coatings

Every major manufacturer of hunting binoculars offers lenses that are coated in special formulations for enhanced capability. These coatings take different paths to offering better contrast, enhanced visibility of certain important colors such as browns and reds. It also makes the obstructions posed by foliage less bothersome. You need to do some research into the significance of the coatings offered on each pair of binoculars that you come by.

Important added features

From rangefinder displays that offer distance readouts to comfortable eye cups for hunters who wear glasses and fog proof constructions, quality binoculars come with a number of important features that can make your life easier in the field.

Finding the best deer hunting binoculars

Deer hunting is carried out in two kinds of environments — in the woods and in open fields. This can make buying a pair of binoculars somewhat difficult. You can decide between getting large, objective lenses for the low-light conditions present in the woods, and ones with small lenses, but powerful magnification for the long-distance stealth required in wide open areas. In general, you can’t go wrong with 42 mm lenses and 8x magnification.

These basic rules apply to any hunting situation. If you need to go after fowl, you don’t particularly need great low-light performance. Instead, you need powerful magnification. You also need something that’s relatively compact and light, considering that you need to spend hours holding up your binoculars.

Knowing this should equip you with the knowledge you need to make the best decision to find the best hunting binoculars for you.

The post The Best Hunting Binoculars Reviews and Buying Guide 2016 appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr

[thebinocularsguide]

Top 5 Binoculars Reviews 2016

Now let’s talk about some actual binocular models that are on the market right now and see how they compare to each other and to what has been discussed in this article. The following binoculars are our top binoculars reviews 2016.

Best Binoculars Reviews 2016

Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular

Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular

Pros – Well-priced (about $200) for high-quality binoculars; comes with the VIP Lifetime Warranty, so even you break them you can get them fixed or replaced; has the multicoated lenses that you want for better viewing quality; waterproof and fog-proof, so no inclement weather worries; comes with lots of accessories like a carrying case

Cons – Difficult to use if you wear glasses; hinges at barrels may be too tight, inhibiting easy adjustment; the soft case doesn’t offer much protection from a fall

Decision – A good value! These are a high-grade product that the average consumer can afford that comes from a company with a reputation for excellent customer service. It’s great that they can be used in all weather. But, if you’re buying high-quality binoculars, they should come with a hard case that will protect them from the occasional fall or drop. Overall, a really good product and a great deal for what you’re getting. It’s easy to see how they got such good reviews. The Vortex Optics Diamondback binoculars deserve to be ranked the best binoculars on the list!

See pricing and reviews on Amazon

Nikon 8245 ACULON A211 8×42 Binocular (Black)

Nikon 8245 ACULON A211 8×42 Binocular

Pros – Very inexpensive (less than $100); have multilayered-coated lenses, so there’s more than one layer, which will give you bright images; the eyecups are easy to position; fairly shock-resistant, so falls won’t be a problem; can be attached to a tripod with an adapter; easy to focus and lightweight, meaning you can carry them longer distances

Cons – Take more work to learn to use than traditional “point-and-shoot” binoculars; the case has a loop instead of a strap that could go over the shoulders or neck, so hands-free carrying could be hard; some buyers complained the company’s repair policy is flawed; some people had trouble getting the binocs to focus properly; tripod adaptor does not come with this model, as it does with others

Decision – While they do allow you to see very bright, clear images, the time it takes to learn to focus properly makes them less useful; Binoculars offering wider fields of view at pretty good distances should come with a hands-free carrying case. If you end up needing repairs, the company should make that easy, not hard. Everybody drops things, so being pretty shock-resistant is a nice bonus. For the money, these are not too bad a pair of binoculars – but they’re no too wonderful, either.

See pricing and reviews on Amazon

Canon 10×30 IS Ultra-Compact Binoculars (Black)

Canon 10×30 IS Ultra-Compact Binoculars

Pros–Very lightweight; have an image-stabilizer built in, so viewing remains steady; multi-coating on the lenses gives you sharp contrast; comes with 1-Year Refurbished Binocular Limited Warranty; have a magnification power of 10x, so they are very good for long distances; have a rubber coating to ensure a secure grip; some buyers reported in binocular reviews having reduced eye fatigue with these compared to other brands

Cons – Not available new from Canon website, only refurbished; pretty expensive (above $400) for used binoculars; no accessories are included with your purchase, so you’ll have to buy a case separately; image stabilizer needs 2 AA batteries, which don’t last long, so unless you use rechargeable batteries that last awhile, you’re going to need a lot of them; the rubber coating starts to deteriorate after 2 or 3 years; to steady your view, you have to hold down the image stabilizing button the whole time

Decision – These seem to be greatly over-priced for the level of goods you’re getting. Why pay $400 or more for “refurbished” when you can buy a new pair of binoculars for the same money or less? Getting to use them for 2 or 3 years before the coating rubs off on you is unacceptable, too, even if they aren’t “new.” Image stabilization in a pair of binocs is great, but what do you do when your hand starts to shake from holding the button down for a long time? Conclusion? Save your money and find a really good, long-lasting pair of binoculars without all the defects.

See pricing and reviews on Amazon

Pentax PTX62216 8.5x21mm Papilio Binoculars

Pentax PTX62216 8.5 X 21 mm Papilio Binocular

Pros – Not a bad price and perfect for close-up viewing of subjects such as insects and birds, it has a focus capability of as close as 1.6 feet; super compact and lightweight, you could carry these binoculars for a long time before getting tired; rubber outer covering provides a safe grip; the company will repair or replace them for about $20, even if it’s your fault they’re broken; has tripod mounts.

Cons – Only useful for close-range viewing; plastic tripod mounts break easily, if you’re not careful they may snap off when you’re attaching the tripod; difficult to see in dim light with these because the lenses are so small; the small eyepieces may be uncomfortable to look through; some binocular reviews report that there are distracting internal reflections that interfere with focusing; the contrast does not seem to be as clear with these binocs as with others.

Decision – If you only want to view things close up, then these are the best binoculars for you. Since they are so small and lightweight, they are easy to carry and won’t weigh you down. There may be a few kinks to be worked out, like the internal reflections, but it’s hard to beat the Worry-Free Warranty. The price is very reasonable and the quality seems to be well-above average for what these binocs are meant to do, so these would be a superior choice.

See pricing and reviews on Amazon

Nikon 7218 Action 10x50mm Binoculars

(Recently discontinued and replaced by Nikon 8248 ACULON A211 10×50 Binocular (Black))

Nikon 7218 Action 10×50 Binocular

Pros – Very reasonably priced under $200; multicoated eyepiece lenses deliver high-resolution images in all light; body design makes extended viewing more comfortable; 10x magnification and 50mm lenses add to great viewing in all light levels; 5mm exit pupil good for older eyes as their pupils don’t open as much as younger ones; no-slip grip rubber coating

Cons – Very heavy, so you can’t really carry or hold them for too far or too long; binocular reviews have reported difficulties getting Nikon to honor the warranty when repairs or replacements were needed; not very shock-proof, even with normal use

Decision – For the quality of the optics, high magnification power, and astronomy strength lenses, the price is extremely reasonable. The smaller exit pupil on these binoculars is definitely more appropriate for those with older eyes. The heaviness of these is an issue, but if you are using them for stargazing in your backyard, then you don’t have far to carry them, so weight may not matter. Across-the-board, these binoculars are an excellent product with a fair price – so go ahead, go nuts with them.

Now you should have a basic understanding of what to look for in binoculars, the different types, information on some of the best companies offering them, and an understanding of what’s hot on the market today. So go outside and enjoy yourself!

See pricing and reviews on Amazon 

The post Top 5 Binoculars Reviews 2016 appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr

[thebinocularsguide]

Compact Binoculars

Introduction to Compact Binoculars

Compact binoculars are useful for hiking, sporting events, camping, and everything in between. If you’re looking for binoculars and you live an active lifestyle, then compact binoculars would be worth checking out. They have all the magnification of regular binoculars, but they will often fit in your pocket and are much less bulky than standard binoculars, so they are much easier to carry when you’re away from home, off in the mountains, or watching a football game. Just whip them out of your pocket and you’re set. Most major binocular companies, such as Nikkon compact binoculars and Sony, produce high quality compact binoculars, so you won’t have to sacrifice quality for size. You can spend as much or as little as you would like. The most expensive compact binoculars start at around two thousand dollars, and the lower end ones will go for less than one hundred. They are an affordable, compact alternative to the bulky styles of the regular binoculars.

As said, there are a vast variety of brands and features when it comes to compact binoculars and it might be a bit confusing if you’re unprepared for your shopping experience. It depends on the kind of thing you’re looking for. Obviously, you’re probably going to want something portable.Most compact binoculars will easily fold up and slip in your pocket. Some are also waterproof, such as certain models offered by Bushnell or Barska. These types of binoculars are also fog proof, so matter what the humidity, your lenses will not fog.

Another feature you want to examine is magnification. If you’re standing on top of a mountain looking out at the land below you, you will probably want something with higher magnification. Most models will provide up to 10x magnification, which would be great for sporting events, but not so great on top of a mountain looking perhaps thousands of feet down. So be sure the magnification fits your needs.

For many, weight is always an issue. No one wants bulky compact binoculars that will weigh you down on a hike or a mountain climb. Bushnell is usually great at offering light weight compact binoculars. Some weigh less than a pound while others are closer to three pounds. If you find a pair with the specs you are looking for and don’t mind the extra weight, it might not be a factor, but, as said, if you’re looking for something lightweight, definitely check out Bushnell’s lineup. They offer high quality, HD vision while weighing less than a pound.

It’s also a bad sign if you have to strain your eyes to look through your binoculars at something in the distance. Some of that will have to do with the magnification or even the kinds of lenses the binoculars use. It would be worth checking out compact binoculars with prism technology built in. Models with prism technology will give you a crisp, clean image along with better light transmission, making viewing long distances much easier on your eyes.

A huge factor for most people is the cost. As said, you can spend as much or as little as you like. The more expensive models will offer high magnification, superior technology with prisms, weight reduction, and durability. Some models hit two thousand dollars, if you have the money to go that high.  Some are as low as thirty dollars on Amazon. Be sure to closely examine all factors that apply to what you need. Most people probably don’t need those two thousand dollar binoculars, especially if you don’t use them often and are not looking for huge distance. If a forty dollar pair fits your needs, then there is no reason to splurge on something more.

Top 3 Best Compact Binocular Reviews

Let’s look at some of the top rated models on Amazon.

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x 42mm Roof Prism Binocular

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism Binoculars

Let’s start out with the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10 x 42mm roof prism binocular. These could be one of the best compact binoculars out there. Bushnell is one of the most popular brands of binoculars out there, and they are also one of the highest rated. This particular set is available for a little over two hundred dollars on Amazon. They have 10x magnification with a 42mm lens. They also offer protection from the rain, snow, and sleet with RainGuard HD lens coating. In addition to this, they are O-ring sealed for maximum protection in any weather condition. These binoculars also offer a wide field of view, soft touch grips, prism glass, and weigh under twenty-five ounces. They would be ideal for hiking, sporting events, and star gazing. There is also an anti-glare protection on the lenses which allows a great view and awesome brightness. Also, the glass is fluorite glass, referred to as ED prime glass. This provides great contrast and a sharp view in lowlight conditions. Finally, it must be mentioned that they have long eye relief, which is especially great for those with glasses. They also sport a durable, tough body. For the price they are one of the best buys out there and offer everything you could want in a set of compact binoculars.

Bushnell Bear Grylls 10 x 42mm Roof Prism Waterproof/Fogproof Binoculars

Bushnell Bear Grylls 10 x 42mm Roof Prism Waterproof/Fogproof Binoculars

Another great model for the value is also from Bushnell. The Bushnell Bear Gryllis 10 x 42mm roof prism water proof and fog binoculars are a great deal for seventy-three dollars on Amazon. This model has a great, durable body, and there is a limited lifetime warranty available. Non-slip rubber armor offers a great grip, and it also absorbs a lot of shock just in case you drop them. They are completely sealed by an O-ring and nitrogen purged for waterproof and fog proof viewing. They come with eye relief and weigh just twenty-five ounces. Superior Bak-4 prisms offer a great image with clear light transmission. The lenses are also multi coated and ideal for long range viewing. A possible downside is that they are not tripod compatible, but again, consider your needs. If that is something you absolutely want, then these are not the right binoculars for you. If you can live without it, then they are ideal for just about anyone at this price. As an addition, these binoculars are also cosmetically attractive, if that matters to you. Again from Bushnell, they are a high quality, popular model of binoculars. They’d be great to pull out for just about any occasion.

Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15×70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter

Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15×70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter

Leaving the Bushnell family of binoculars, the Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15 x 70mm with a tripod adapter model is a great value. This model offers multi-coated optics, a large aperture for dim and dark conditions as well as gazing at the stars, a tripod adapter, and long eye relief. They are a great binocular for bird watching or hunting. They are also great on short hikes or nature trails. If these activities are your thing, definitely consider this model. At sixty dollars on Amazon, they are a great buy. If you’re looking for something light weight, however, you might want to consider the top two discussed models instead. These things weigh almost three and a half pounds, double the previous two. But the price makes up for it if you don’t mind the extra weight. It’s easy to spend hundreds of dollars on compact binoculars. While more expensive binoculars will easily out perform these, SkyMaster models are great for the money. SkyMaster binoculars are the leaders in low priced binoculars. They offer great clarity, contrast, and sharpness for the price that they are offered. As said, if you don’t mind the extra weight, this model is spectacular for the price.

The post Compact Binoculars appeared first on The Binoculars Guide.

http://ift.tt/2alY5Vr