Choosing binoculars is the most important decision you will make as a birder. Whether or not you ultimately purchase a spotting scope, your binoculars will be a part of every birding experience. They will be your window into the world of birding. Making an informed decision now can prevent years of unhappy performance. At Eagle Optics, we’ve been helping customers make sound decisions in birding optics since 1986. We stock the right equipment, at the right prices, and our knowledgeable staff will help you pick the model most suited to your needs. We invite you to review the information below, and then call our toll-free number (800-289-1132) for personalized attention.

What size binocular do you prefer?

Full-size binoculars offer the greatest light gathering ability and over-all optical performance. Larger objective lenses and prism blocks allow for greater exit pupils, providing brighter, sharper image quality. Typical full-size configurations include the 7x35, 7x50, 8x40, and 10x40 models.

Compact binoculars are much more portable than full-size models and may even fit into a purse or coat pocket. Smaller objective lenses limit the light gathering ablility of the binocular, but may be ideal for day events. Examples of compact configurations include 7x21, 8x25, and 10x25 models.

How much magnification do you need?

Higher magnifications of 10x (“ten power”) or more will help when observing at longer distances in more open terrain. When viewing raptors, waterfowl, and large wildlife, the extra magnification will give you more detail. Keep in mind that this extra magnification requires a steady hand. However, compact binoculars are so light that it takes very little hand tremor to affect your view.

Lower magnifications of 7x or 8x work equally well in all terrain and in a wide variety of situations. The fields of view are wider and images tend to be brighter. Wider fields of view make it easier to follow fast moving birds in thick woodland environments, scan for animals from a distance, and to follow action in sporting events or at the theatre. Low magnification in compact binoculars provides a much steadier view. 

Do your binoculars need to be waterproof?

Binoculars are made to be used in the field. Most standard binoculars will stand up to light rain and humidity, but if you plan on extended use in bad weather, or if the binocular could be submerged, then waterproofing is suggested. Waterproof binoculars are becoming more popular and cost-effective as more people push into extreme outdoor situations. They are good for boaters, backpackers, hunters and birders that brave the elements. Waterproof optics are literally submersible and any water damage would be handled under the manufacturer’s warranty. 

If waterproofing isn’t necessary, then you can find good optical quality at considerably lower prices. Water-resistant optics will handle occasional splashes, but are not submersible.

Will you wear eyeglasses or sunglasses?

Many models of binoculars will allow you to view in comfort while wearing eyeglasses. These binoculars have a feature, known as long eye relief, that allows you to see the full field of view. In order to take advantage of this feature, you roll back, twist in, or pop down the rubber eyecup. Consider models with at least 15mm of eye relief.

Special considerations for eyeglass wearers:

If you have moderate to severe astigmatism, you will need to wear glasses for serious observing. If your eye correction is for near or far sightedness, then the binocular’s focusing travel will usually accommodate for these conditions and you won’t need to wear your eyeglasses. Out in the field you will generally use the naked eye to locate birds before looking through your binoculars and, while not optically necessary to keep the glasses on, it is much easier to do so. Constantly taking your glasses on and off is not only frustrating, but it will slow you down when tracking fast moving birds.