Man has invented many devices that help him or simplify his life. One of these inventions was binoculars, which allows you to view an object of interest at a remote distance. There are models of different designs that are used in certain areas. It is necessary to carry out the purchase of binoculars, based on specific parameters.
How to choose binoculars according to the main characteristics
When it comes to which binoculars are better, you need to pay attention to their optics. It has two most important characteristics - diameter and magnification. The manufacturers themselves indicate their importance by indicating these values in the product name. For example, the Nikon Aculon W10 10x21 has a 10x zoom and a 21mm lens. All binoculars can conditionally be divided as follows:
- With a fixed multiplicity, it cannot be changed. There are binoculars of small (2-4), medium (5-8), large (10-22) magnification.
- With the zoom function (ZOOM), which provides the ability to change the approximation parameter in a specific specified range. For example, Veber ZOOM 7-15x35 adjusts the magnification from 7 to 15.
The diameter of the lens or the entrance pupil directly affects the luminosity of the device, the image quality, which helps to determine which of the binoculars is better. This part is also responsible for the viewing angle: the larger the lens, the larger the visible area through the device. It should be borne in mind that the diameter of the optics directly affects the dimensions and weight. Models with lenses up to 50mm are considered suitable for handheld use, values above require the use of a tripod.
Opera glasses
When choosing this type of binoculars, the main characteristic should be the size. Ideally, if the device will fit in your jacket pocket or in a woman's handbag. Low magnification models are well suited because theater environments do not require a closer approximation. This will be enough to examine in detail the costumes of the actors, their faces. Such models are often sold in the theaters themselves and are called pocket binoculars.
Binoculars for hunting
There are several criteria that will help you understand how to choose binoculars for hunting. The difficulty lies in the fact that many people use different options when choosing a device. Yukon Point 8x56 is considered popular among hunters, but it weighs just over a kilogram, which complicates the observation process. Another hunting option is Fijifilm Fujinon 10x50, which does not even reach 840g, but the image quality is considered slightly worse. Unanimously, all lovers of fishing and hunting recognize that the device should:
- have good optics, a magnification of at least 8 and a diameter of 50-56 mm;
- weigh no more than 1 kg (this is the maximum weight that will not interfere with observation), but less is better;
- the case must withstand falls and other “tests” that are not critical for further operation.
Nautical
It is already clear how to choose binoculars with a high magnification, but in the case of boat trips, this criterion is not at all the main one. The device must have a moisture-resistant case so that water does not damage its components and does not spoil the image quality. Among professional users, Veber BPS 7x50 has proven itself well, which is able to survive even immersion in water, has a built-in illuminated compass.
Field or army
It is believed that the most powerful binoculars are military, but in fact this place is occupied by astronomical models. Army devices should not be so much rangefinders as they should have a set of specific functions. Their presence or absence determines which binoculars are good and which are not. List of options:
- built-in compass;
- laser rangefinder;
- electronic image stabilization;
- possibility of night reconnaissance.
Not always all these parameters are combined in one binocular, but they are also used to solve narrow specialized tasks. The main requirements of this type of device include:
- high luminosity;
- impact-resistant case, moisture protection, nitrogen filling;
- weight not higher than 1 kg;
- wide field of view - a value of 120x1000 m is considered acceptable;
- high-quality optics;
- separate focusing eyepieces;
- additional functions: rangefinder reticle, altitude scale, buoyancy, etc.
The best binoculars made in Russia and from foreign suppliers
Among fans of binoculars, models that were developed back in the USSR are highly valued. Then a lot of attention was paid to quality, standards. The main emphasis was placed on the production of military models with a high level of picture, high magnification. Now their design is very outdated, they are not as comfortable as their foreign counterparts. Factories continue to produce new versions of devices that are now of interest to lovers of tourism, to watch the stars. The price of such binoculars is usually lower, so people take them often.
This brand belongs to the SMOS plant and has a long history. Models of the device differ in magnification and lens diameter. Users note the good aperture ratio of optics. One of the main advantages of the model is its low cost. The disadvantages include weight, which increases proportionally with increasing lens size. If you choose the right model, then its characteristics will be in the rating no lower than those of imported counterparts.
Nikon Aculon A211 Zoom 10-22x50
Nikon, known for its high-quality optics, has released this model to replace the Action VII line. It uses Porro prisms, which are designed for all lovers of hunting, sports and tourism. The high magnification range (22x) is suitable for super long range surveillance. A function that helps you change the magnification of the binoculars will allow you to adapt to any conditions.
Olympus 8-16x25 Zoom PC I
This model has a ZOOM function, which provides the ability to zoom in and out of objects in the visual field. The minimum value of the multiplicity is 8, and the maximum is 16. The device helps to see everything in detail even when wearing glasses, but the diopter adjustment is small. Lenses provide a bright and high-quality picture. It is recommended to use binoculars for tourist purposes.
Veber Opera BHC 3x25R lorgnette
If you are wondering which binoculars are best for theatrical performances, then this model is for everyone. It is necessary to choose such device options, based on considerations of comfort and ease of use. This model perfectly combines an attractive, sophisticated appearance and compact size, and the low price should be the last argument. It has binoculars with 3x magnification, which is quite enough for theatrical performances.
Where to buy and how much binoculars cost
These products are sold in specialized stores. Theatrical models, as a rule, are offered directly on the spot, but tourist and military models must be bought strictly in specialized stores. Many online hypermarkets offer binoculars in their hiking gear section. As a rule, the price on the Internet is always somewhat lower. Estimated cost:
- Theatrical - from 1000 to 3200 r;
- Tourist - from 2000 to 40000 r;
- Marine - from 8000 to 93000 r;
- Astronomical - from 7000 to 63500 rubles.
Video: the right choice of binoculars
Binoculars are a popular and ubiquitous group of optical equipment. They are designed to conduct surveillance from various distances. The advantage of the device is a combination of multiple approximations, small dimensions, and the ability to look simultaneously with two eyes.
Binoculars may differ in the way they focus. That is, pointing the eyepieces simultaneously or separately. And in terms of size, optical equipment is divided into classic and compact models.
Classification of binoculars depending on the tasks they perform:
- theatrical models are designed for observation at close distances. They increase by 2.5-5 r., have a low weight and increased luminosity;
- compact ones are much smaller, but they approximate more efficiently. They are used for observations during daylight hours, because have a small luminosity;
- field devices - optimal for topographers, power engineers, signalmen, hunters. They can catch light at dusk and increase by 7-20 rubles;
- military binoculars are special devices that differ in the presence of additional functions. For example, increased strength and water resistance combined with high expansion;
- marine binoculars are equipped with a powerful zoom system, compass, range finder. They perfectly "see" in bad conditions and are completely "not afraid" of water;
- astronomical instruments increase, starting from 6-7 p. Used only with a tripod;
- night vision binoculars are equipped with an IR illuminator and have a wide range of visibility.
binocular magnification
Multiplicity - the first number indicated on the body of the device, indicating how many times it zooms in on the image. This is the main parameter that you should pay attention to when buying binoculars.
Advice. For observation in the forest, the best solution would be binoculars with a magnification of 7-8 r. In the forest-steppe and steppe, a greater approximation is required, that is, a magnification of 10. For hunting in the mountains, devices with a maximum value of 12 are suitable, but they are used only with a tripod, because hand trembling will knock down the setting.
The most common increase rates are from 6 to 10. An even larger value loses its meaning, because. at this magnification, the picture is blurry. It is clearly visible at 6, 7 and 8 times magnification.
Sometimes there are binoculars with a variable magnification value, for example, from 8 to 32. This is not the best choice, because. a device with this function is less reliable and heavier.
Objective lens diameter
The second number on the marking of the device, written after the magnification and the symbol "x", indicates the diameter of the objective lens. It is the lens that determines the so-called aperture ratio, that is, the brightness of the image in poor lighting conditions, for example, at dusk. Simply put, the larger the lens, the better you can see.
In addition, the so-called coated lenses increase the aperture ratio. They are distinguished by a special coating, which is an obstacle to the loss of sunlight. Enlightenment can be single-layer and multi-layer.
Exit pupil diameter
The size of the exit pupil corresponds to the magnification. For example, if the device indicates the value 6x30, then dividing 30 (incoming lens diameter) by 6 (multiplicity), we get the exit pupil diameter, i.e. 5 mm.
Attention! The best indicator of the diameter of the exit pupil is considered to be 7 mm, this is a size equal to the size of a human pupil.
For those who wear eyeglasses, binoculars with an eye relief function will do. With a distance of 15 mm, you can observe without taking off your glasses.
Another important indicator related to the lens and the exit pupil is the angle of view. It is clear that the larger the viewing angle, the better. But it must be borne in mind that the more powerful the device, the smaller the percentage of the viewing angle it has.
To whom, which binoculars are more suitable
Having dealt with the main technical characteristics, you can understand which device is right for you. But practitioners are advised to take into account several more features of optical devices:
- Tourists, hunters, geologists and nature explorers will need models with increased protection. Rubberized binoculars will not get wet in the pouring rain. Models in a sealed case will be protected from shock. The moisture absorption system will help the equipment stay in working condition during frosts.
- Astronomers need powerful binoculars, with a magnification of 20 or higher. But be prepared that the picture at this magnification will tremble. The alternative is a widescreen instrument with a standard magnification. So the stars and nebulae will still be far away, but the field of view will increase significantly.
- For sailors, models with image stabilization are ideal, so that the binoculars can be used safely on a rocking deck.
The highest magnification in binoculars is not always the best result. For hunting or observing animals, binoculars with a magnification of 6-7 are quite suitable.
How to choose binoculars - video
The choice of binoculars should be determined based on its purpose. Tourist optics are very different from hunting optics, and military and marine binoculars with high magnification and night vision are included in the category of special devices. Quality and price, respectively, they differ significantly. The main criteria for any binoculars are their size and magnification.
Characteristics of tourist optics
For a hike it is not necessary to purchase binoculars with a very strong approximation. The best option would be 7-10 times the increase. Anything that goes above these figures is very difficult to hold in your hands for a long time, so you will need a tripod.
Compact binoculars with a high magnification of 10x are quite suitable for tourist conditions. It can be a rubberized model, which costs an order of magnitude cheaper than waterproof optics. It is important that the device does not take up much space and is well “held” in the hand. If the tourist activity is devoted to observing nature, then it is preferable to have a light model with a 6-8x zoom. This is quite enough for the object of observation to be clearly visible, but not to be able to smell the observer. This category includes binoculars from Celestron at a price of 3900 rubles. and Levenhuk with prices starting from 5390 rubles. and higher.
Typically, optics are numbered in two numbers, for example, 7x35 or 10x50, in which the first number indicates the ability to bring objects closer to this number of times, and the second indicates the lens size in millimeters.
Optics for hunting
For various types of hunting, you can choose binoculars with high or medium magnification. The higher the magnification, the smaller the view, so for observing large game that can be lured to a selected place, binoculars with 10-15x magnification are suitable. It can be mounted on a tripod and pointed in the desired direction.
If you need a large field of view to cover a section of a forest or a river, then optics with a 4-7x zoom with a lens diameter of 25-40 mm will be the best assistant. An important quality for hunting optics is the shockproof and rubberized housing, as well as its weight. It is unlikely that a heavy device will become a help during long-term tracking of game. A good example is Nikon Aculon T11 8-24x25 Zoom worth 11590 rubles.
Special hunting optics
For hunters, modern industry produces models that were previously available only to the military. These are high magnification electronic binoculars. They are based on the uniqueness of which is that it displays information on the exact distance to the object on the liquid crystal display. This greatly simplifies the possibility of a more accurate sight. Also, their clear advantage is the display of a high-quality image even with very poor visibility or at night. Such binoculars with high magnification - reviews and advice on the hunting equipment forums confirm this - are especially suitable for novice hunters whose eye has not yet been “shot in”.
Such devices make an error of only up to a meter, which greatly simplifies the chance for an inexperienced "pathfinder" to aim accurately, and for a professional to save time on this.
marine binoculars
High magnification binoculars are a good helper for sailors and fishermen. In the open sea, the maximum view of the horizon is considered the main thing, so here the choice should be in the middle link: 7-10x approximation is quite sufficient to get a clear picture of the view. If binoculars for a yacht are required, then you can choose a higher magnification with the optics mounted on a tripod.
Binoculars with high magnification "Nikon" 8x36 or Compass 7x50 CF WP (price 22790 rubles) are quite suitable for sea travel or fishing. All optics of this kind are made in a waterproof case to protect them from splashes. Prices for marine binoculars are slightly higher than for hunting binoculars, but the quality of the resulting image is better. Tactical marine optics are in great demand.
tactical binoculars
Marine binoculars with high magnification can also be tactical, as they are equipped with a rangefinder reticle with a compass, which allows you to set up a clear picture even with strong pitching. Such optics do not sink in water, since the case is filled with nitrogen. Special lenses with a high aperture ratio provide good visibility both in clear weather, when there are glare on the water, and during fog or poor lighting.
Marine binoculars with high magnification are rather large in size precisely because of their magnification, while tactical binoculars have 7x50 parameters, which makes them convenient and compact.
Many marine binoculars are equipped with autofocus, which adjusts both eyepieces at the same time, making them significantly more expensive but of higher quality. In this case, it is enough to make the adjustment once so that all objects are clearly visible when transferring attention from one to another.
Astronomical binoculars
Observation of space objects has firmly entered the hobby category, so the demand for binoculars with high magnification began to grow. This category does require a 10-14x zoom. The main thing is that the diameter of the exit pupil should be from 3 to 4 mm. This standard corresponds to optics with indicators 10x35, 10x40, 12x40, 12x50, 14x50.
Devices from 12x50 to 30x90 are considered specialized, have a narrow view, but give a clear vision of details in space, for example, Celestron Cometron 12x70 worth 7490 rubles. Astronomical optics has gone beyond telescopes, so today you will not surprise anyone with the concept of "binoculars for astronomical observations", although their prices are quite high. High magnification binoculars are large, so a tripod is a must.
Optics made in the USSR
During the Soviet era, the standards for military optics were considered the highest in the world. Optical-mechanical plants for its production, such as Zagorsky (B8x30 USSR ZOMZ price 12,000 rubles), Salavatsky (B10x50 SOMZ, 13,500 rubles), Kazan (Photon -7BKFTs 7x35 KOMZ 11,000 rubles) are famous for their products , some of which was exported to foreign countries.
All binoculars with high magnification (the USSR produced a lot of them) are still in demand, since they are lower in price than modern optics, but they may well meet even the highest demand. They differed in purpose: for example, military field and marine binoculars had a grid and a resolution of up to 20x60 mm.
Optics for hunters and tourists is simpler, but it is quite suitable for its application. Thus, light and small-sized binoculars of the Foton series were popular not only among lovers of hiking, fishing or hunting, but also with a resolution of 7x35 mm with multi-coated lenses and a durable body that made it possible to use them in extreme conditions, in bad weather and at dusk.
Very high magnification optics
Binoculars with a magnification of 100x or more have a field of application in astronomical observations or for animals and birds. According to their characteristics, they are close to telescopes, therefore, they require installation on a tripod.
Russian-made binoculars
Russian opto-mechanical productions produce binoculars both for military needs and for mass use. At the Zagorsk enterprise, for example, they produce not only electronic and conventional zooming optics, but also light filters that are used for everyone. Among the large assortment of the plant, you can choose optics with an approximation range of 15 times. The scope of their application is astronomical observations, tourism activities, sea travel, observation of animals and birds.
Binoculars with a large increase in Russian production, which are used at night, are produced at the Jupiter plant. These devices are suitable for use in complete darkness for both distant and near objects. Specialized Russian-made devices, for example, Farvision BKS 20x50 M binoculars with stabilization, cost 99,900 rubles, although ordinary optics can be purchased from 1,500 rubles.
The most important technical specifications of binoculars
To choose the right zooming optics, you should focus on the main indicators that determine the quality, price and scope of its application.
- The most important is the indication of the multiplicity. The most optimal and popular are binoculars with a magnification of 6-10x. Everything above already requires either additional effort and skills to use, or installation on a tripod. Magnification of objects from 6 to 10 times is quite enough for the use of such optics in hiking, hunting and fishing, when observing animals. High magnification binoculars are not always the best choice if you need a lightweight companion on your hike.
- The next most important is the diameter of the lenses: the higher it is, the clearer and sharper the picture will be. This is because a larger lens collects more light, making distant and dim objects bright. For ground observation binoculars, indicators from 30 to 50 mm are considered sufficient. If more powerful optics are required, for example, for astronomical observations, then the diameter can reach from 50 to 80 mm and even higher. The optimal ground-based binoculars have parameters of 7x35, 7x42, 8x40, and with indicators of 10x50, a tripod is already required for long-term observation.
Based on these data, you can choose optics according to your preferences, but there are still indicators that affect its quality and price.
Center focus
More expensive binoculars have autofocus, a special reticle, or a laser rangefinder. Electronic optics with a rangefinder is in the most expensive segment of the market. These are the most accurate devices with quick adjustment of two eyepieces at the same time.
Manual focusing is done independently, and if the binoculars are also equipped with diopter adjustment, then it can be done even for persons with myopia and hyperopia. The new generation of optics provides a fixed focus for those cases when there is no time to adjust. Such devices are used by firefighters, rescuers, hunters chasing prey.
Angle of view and exit pupil diameter
These parameters also affect the price of binoculars and their scope.
- The angle of view indicates the distance covered by the human eye through binoculars. The higher the magnification, the smaller the view a person sees. Very high zoom optics, with values such as 30 and above, require a certain focus on the object. While a shorter range gives a wide view, which allows you to use them both on the water and in the field or mountains. This type of binoculars is called large-scale. To determine this indicator, manufacturers indicate the width in meters, for example, 110/1000 m, which means a view of 110 m with an object range of 1000 meters.
- The best indicator of the diameter of the exit pupil is considered to be an indicator close to the size of the human pupil, that is, during the day it is 2-3 mm, and in the dark 6-8 mm. Therefore, data of 5-7 mm are considered a generally recognized standard. To find the exit pupil diameter, you need to divide the size of the lens by its magnification. For example, 7x35 binoculars have an exit pupil of 5 mm (35:7=5). At higher values, the light will not be fully received by the human eye, and, accordingly, visibility will be worse.
Binoculars are also classified according to what the lenses are made of. They can be lens and prismatic. The first includes theater optics, the second - all field devices.
Prism optics is divided into two systems:
- Porro, in honor of the optician from France, in which the lens and lens are distributed in successive steps, which expands the perspective of the view and gives a clear picture.
- The Ruf system is a prism with two faces located at an angle to each other. Such optics are more compact and lighter, but expensive due to the difficulty of grinding and polishing the prisms.
Thus, before you make a choice of binoculars, you should highlight a few starting points for orienting in a large assortment of this product:
- the purpose of the binoculars;
- targeted review or wide-ranging;
- approximation ratio;
- focus type;
- country of manufacture and brand;
- estimated price.
Having given answers to these points, it is easier to make a purchase that will not bring annoyance and disappointment.
The choice of binoculars for hunting or other needs is a responsible task, which comes down to buying the optimally convenient optical product for use in certain conditions. When purchasing binoculars, you should pay attention not only to its magnification capabilities, but also to other characteristics that are no less important when using the device.
Binoculars are an optical instrument, the design of which consists of two telescopes. They are parallel to each other and are connected by one body, which allows you to comfortably observe objects at a distance.
binoculars classification
In size, they can be compact or classic. Compact optical devices are small in size and light in weight. They are convenient to carry and use during hunting or hiking trips. At one time classic can be used in any situation. Variable or fixed multiplicity may be provided in different models.
By type of focus
- central focus;
- separate focus.
The binoculars of the first group have a central handwheel in their design, which performs focusing for both eyes. To ensure diopter difference, one of the eyepieces is equipped with an individual focusing mechanism. If you look at the design of devices with separate focusing, then there is a separate adjustment on each of the eyepieces.
Binoculars are also divided by technical indicators. Classification of products occurs on the basis of several parameters.
According to technical specifications
- multiplicity;
- luminosity;
- the diameter of the exit pupil and the entrance lens;
- field of view width;
- other indicators.
Based on these characteristics, there are different types of binoculars.
Types of binoculars
- Theatrical. Used to view events at a short distance. They have compact dimensions and small multiplicity parameters.
- Compact. Like theatrical products, they are small in weight and size, and also have a small exit pupil diameter and low aperture. However, they are endowed with a high multiplicity.
- Field. Due to their large aperture and magnifying power, they are very popular.
- Military. Such devices can be used in various conditions. They stand out for their rugged housing, portability, increased lightness, and also show good resistance to moisture. They have a high magnification and a wide field of view. This makes them indispensable products for observations.
- Astronomical. They are used to observe the starry sky, they have several types and are equipped with special tripods.
- Marine. They have increased resistance to aggressive environmental conditions. They have a high magnifying power. A special scale and a full-fledged compass are built into such devices.
- Binoculars for night observation. They give the most clear and high-quality picture in night lighting conditions.
Binoculars with porro and roof prisms
The porro prism system is a classic variant in which the distance between the viewing tubes is smaller than between the lenses. In optical products with a roof prism, eyepieces and objectives are located on the same axis. The difference between these systems is that porro prism instruments are characterized by increased plasticity and high image quality. However, the use of the proof system in the product makes it possible to make it small-sized.
Basic parameters of binoculars
Initially, when choosing binoculars, it is worth considering two parameters: the magnification and the diameter of the outer lens.
multiplicity
For the forest zone, a device with an eightfold increase is perfect. Its power will be enough to see wild animals and birds among the green foliage. For an area where there are a lot of trees, you should not choose a product with a large multiplicity, as this will interfere with a quick search.
For forest-steppe and steppe zones, where large spaces are viewed, binoculars with a good magnification index are needed. The optimal model will be a product with a tenfold increase. The size and weight of these binoculars allow for constant observation, as well as focusing on the selected object.
When hunting in mountainous areas, it is necessary to select a product with a maximum magnification. A device with a twelvefold magnification and higher will allow not only to detect an animal, but also to evaluate its value. Such devices are bought together with a tripod.
It is worth purchasing optical products with high magnification only for observing very distant objects. If you use a device model with a high magnification to approach nearby objects, then even with the smallest movements, the picture will jump slightly. This will complicate the observation process and significantly reduce the comfort of using the device.
To avoid general discomfort, you can choose a model with variable multiplicity. In such models, you can smoothly adjust the degree of magnification. The design of such binoculars is much more complicated. It allows you to zoom in on objects of observation without violating the properties of stereoscopic vision.
External lens diameter
The size of this optical element determines how much light will take part in the formation of the image. This is the second most important indicator that determines the aperture ratio of the product. It affects the viewing angle and the width of the field of view. The larger the dimensions of this optical element, the higher the aperture ratio. To see a bright and more realistic object through binoculars, you need to choose a device with a large aperture. Binoculars with an increased aperture ratio will allow you to observe at dusk, as it has the ability to collect more light.
For each territory, it is necessary to choose its own combination of these parameters. The most optimal indicators are:
- for the forest, mm - 7x35, 8x36, 8x40;
- for tundra, forest-steppe and steppe, mm - 10x40, 10x50;
- for mountains, mm - 12x50.
Many hunters who hunt in different areas prefer a product with 7x50 parameters. However, it should be noted that the large diameter of the optical elements makes the weight heavier and increases the design of the product.
Latitude of the field of view
This parameter determines the maximum value of the image available through binoculars at a distance of one kilometer. This indicator directly depends on the size of the output lens. The larger it is, the wider the view will be. If this parameter is higher than 100 meters per kilometer, this will allow you to conduct comfortable observation and easily navigate the terrain. Small lenses and an increase in magnification reduce the width of the field of view and reduce image quality in poor visibility.
Aperture and focus
Aperture is determined by the angle of view and the magnifying power of the optical device. The brightness of the image depends on its indicator. If you plan to use binoculars in conditions of limited lighting, then you need to choose products with an aperture ratio of at least 25.
Focusing binoculars allows you to focus on the object selected for observation. In devices with central focusing, the adjusting handwheel is mounted on a swivel between the survey pipes. His movements will equally change the sharpness in both eyepieces. If a person has severely impaired vision, then a device with an individual sharpness setting for each eyepiece is suitable for him.
The weight of binoculars is of great importance for hunters who travel long distances while hunting. However, here everyone needs to make their own choice. After all, weight reduction entails a decrease in the multiplicity and other important indicators. To reduce weight, manufacturers often use plastic, which in turn reduces the strength of the product. Binoculars with parameters 7x35 must weigh at least half a kilogram. Devices with lower weight values are of poor quality, or are not designed for hunting.
Extra options
Due to the fact that the binoculars contain optical elements and are almost always used on a canopy, they must have increased strength and resistance to various mechanical influences. So that it can be securely fixed in your hands, you should choose models that have a rubberized body. If the device is to be used in wet conditions or near water, it must be completely waterproof. The only way to protect binoculars from fogging of internal elements is to fill its body with nitrogen, which is provided in expensive models.
What to look for when choosing binoculars
When a person is fully acquainted with the main parameters of binoculars and their varieties, he can go shopping. However, when making your final choice, you need to pay attention to a number of additional factors:
- It is always worth giving preference to a time-tested manufacturer. If a company has specialized in the production of various optical products for many years, then their binoculars will be of good quality. Such devices will have good image quality and will allow long-term observation without the appearance of eye strain.
- Do not focus your choice only on the multiplicity index. It is best to take several models with different magnification for comparison and look through them at a piece of paper with text that needs to be placed at a distance of 15 meters. Text with less magnification will be much easier to read. It is worth buying a product with a large magnification only for the purpose of constant observation over long distances.
- Binoculars are a device that in some hands can create a feeling of comfort, while in others it can be ineffective. His choice must be approached individually. Be sure to look through the device in the daytime and see the image with your own eyes. It is better to rely on your own feelings than on the opinions of other people.
- Before buying, you need to carefully consider the body and lenses of the device. The body must be free of dents and paint defects. Lenses must be clean and free from scratches. To check the absence of scratches and dirty spots on them, you can look through binoculars at a light background. If even the smallest traces of dirt or scratches are found, the device will not function well.
- It is advisable to test the product not only on near, but also on distant objects. During viewing, due attention should be paid to image quality. The picture should have clear contours, and objects should not be surrounded by multi-colored auras. The image should not double, or be slightly smeared. The quality of the transmitted image can be determined by the condition of the eyes. If a slight tension is felt, then such a model should not be taken, even if the picture, according to the person himself, is excellent.
- Be sure to check the reliability and quality of the connecting mechanism of the telescopes when choosing. It should work smoothly and not make any sounds. The fastening must be strong and not loosen.
- Giving preference to binoculars of low cost, a person runs the risk of purchasing a low-quality product.
Before making your final choice, hold the binoculars thoroughly in your hands. Think about whether it will be comfortable for you not only to conduct observation through it, but also to transfer it over long distances. Well weigh the pros and cons, and only then make your choice towards one of the models.
The most common magnification for astronomical binoculars is 15-40x. Astronomy binoculars are quite bulky, so they need to be mounted on a tripod or stand to stabilize the image.
Specifications of binoculars
The magnification (multiplicity) of binoculars shows how many times an object seems closer than it actually is. The magnification is indicated on the body of the binoculars, on the box and in the title. The increase is always indicated by the first number. For example, if the name of a binocular contains the numbers 8x25, its magnification will be 8. The second number indicates the diameter of the lens. The larger the diameter (aperture) of the lens, the greater the aperture ratio of the binoculars and, consequently, the better the quality and brightness of the image. As the lens diameter increases, so does the viewing angle.
The focusing system in binoculars is central (when two lenses are adjusted simultaneously) and separate (when each lens is adjusted separately).
Binoculars for extreme conditions must be protected from moisture and dust or completely sealed. In order to prevent the glasses from misting up during a sharp change in humidity or temperature, the lenses of the binoculars are filled with gas (most often nitrogen).
Binoculars have two main prism systems: Roof ("with a roof") and Porro. Porro prisms consist of a single piece of optical glass, the light beam in them is refracted three times, so the light is not lost in it. The Roof prism system consists of two optical glass elements, which results in additional light loss. Roof binoculars cost about 1.5 times more than Porro prism binoculars with the same image quality, but are more impact resistant and compact, making them easier to take on a hike, trip or fishing trip.
