Along with your rifle or bow, binoculars are the most important tool you'll need when you go hunting. This crucial piece of gear can open up all sorts of new possibilities. Binoculars can help you see faraway objects as if they were right next to you. Since binoculars are so important, you must take your time to find the best pair for your needs. So how do you choose binoculars? Keep reading and learn about the most important considerations to keep in mind when looking for hunting binoculars for sale.

Compact vs Full Size

First, consider the size of the binoculars you want to purchase. The main benefit of compact binoculars is their portability. They are lightweight, easy to slip away in your pocket, and can easily be used for more than just hunting; they are great for fishing too. On the downside, they typically have fewer features than full-size binoculars, simply because of their size. They have a narrower field of view and a longer minimum focus distance, which makes it harder to see things that are only five or six yards away. Additionally, they have small lenses, which reduces the amount of light collected and the brightness of the image produced. To choose between full size and compact binoculars, you'll need to think about your priorities. Are better features more important than portability or vice versa?

Magnification

The magnification of binoculars is the number printed on the side next to an X. If the binoculars are labeled 10X, they magnify the subject ten times. A bird that is 1,000 meters away will appear as if it is only 100 meters away. For hunting, look for binoculars with a magnification between 7X and 12X. Anything with greater magnification will be too heavy and will need to be supported with a tripod.

Objective Lens Size

The objective lens is located opposite the eyepiece and determines how much light enters the binoculars. The lens size is measured in mm and has a magnification X designation, too. A larger objective lens is better for use in low light conditions. Look for a ratio of 5mm lenses with the magnification for ideal binoculars. For example, 8 x 40 mm lenses will produce a solid bright and clear image.

Lens Coating and Quality

Lens coating also plays an important role in determining the quality of the binoculars. The coating helps to decrease the amount of reflected light and it lets the maximum amount of light transmission to enter. A higher quality lens will provide better contrast and produce a non-distorted image. Quality lenses work well when used in low light conditions, since the colors are vibrant and it can transmit more light.

Weight and Eye Strain

If you can, it's best to try out hunting binoculars before you buy them so you can feel their weight. Binoculars that are too heavy will tire you out after prolonged use. You should also be mindful not to choose a pair that will cause eye strain. For most people, using regular binoculars for more than a few minutes at a time can cause arm and eye stress. If you need to look through binoculars for hours on end, try to find a high-end compact pair, since they are lightweight and will cause very little eye strain.

Visit us at The Optic Zone to browse our wide selection of top rated hunting binoculars.