subject: Bird Binoculars - Things To Consider [print this page] Bird binoculars, are essential things for bird watching. If watching is your hobby, it's nice to have your bird watching binoculars handy. Or if you're considering presenting a binocular to your friend who loves bird watching, still you should shop savvy. Here are some things you need to consider while shopping for bird binoculars.
Magnification
It does matter how much the lenses are magnifying. If you love bird watching, you surely want a fully clear view or sight of birds that you find interest in. The standard configuration of magnification is - 7x35 (at leas). True, many people just use a regular pair for bird watching, but when you're ready to expend a little bit more for getting multiple magnifications (8x to 10x), you'll surely want the advantage of getting larger image of the birds.
Things depend a lot on your preferences when it comes to the size of the lens. If you're in need of something lightweight, then you might want binoculars less magnified. However, if you're looking for a much clearer view with extra light, you'll be better of with larger lenses, though they're likely to be a little bit heavier.
Flexibility & Focus
Try and move the barrels. Do they feel tight? When you're shopping for bird binoculars, you should know that these things are supposed to move easily - which gives you a comfortable hold. That way, your binocular is not exposed to the risk of a breakage. Binoculars that are for hobbyist should offer the feel of comfort and ease of control.
Trying out the focus isn't at all times easy - especially when you're in a building. This is because stores aren't usually very light. So, consider trying out a comparatively brighter side in a room. Then focus on any object, which is quite close. Also focus on one, which is relatively farther away. See whether it requires you to alter it too much for clearer view. If it does, you take that a clear indication of "poor quality".
Exit Pupil
This might seem trivial at the first thought. But, it's got clear influence on the degree of clarity of your view. The binoculars' exit pupil actually is an amplified view of whatever image you're seeing in the binoculars eye-piece. For getting the finest image from bird binoculars, you'll need a quality exit pupil, which is not below 4mm.
