Bird watching is a wonderful hobby that can last a lifetime. While many of us receive great enjoyment just from watching the birds that visit our back yards, other people are interested in learning much more about these fascinating creatures by observing them more closely. One of the best ways to accomplish this is with a good pair of bird watching binoculars.
For those who are more serious about bird watching, having a decent pair of binoculars can make our hobby more satisfying and enjoyable. If you have decided that the time has come for you to begin your search for your first binoculars, here are a few things you should consider before making your purchase.
One of the compact models can be a great choice if your bird watching includes hiking or walking a bit of a distance where the amount of weight that you carry is a serious consideration. If, on the other hand, the amount of weight you might have to carry isn’t something you need to be concerned with then a standard-sized model may be a better choice for you.
Whether you decide to go with standard or compact binoculars, here are a few additional things to look for. First, try to buy the best pair of binoculars you can afford so that your investment will last a lifetime. Next, try different pairs of binoculars to find one that feels good in your hands. In addition, you’ll want to hold the binoculars up to your eyes. Do they feel comfortable to use? Do the diopter and focusing controls feel natural and easy to use when making adjustments?
Another thing to consider when purchasing binoculars for bird watching is that they need to be both lightweight and sturdy. They should be built to withstand any terrain or environment that you will encounter while bird watching. You should be able to hold them steady without too much effort. The optics should have the capability to resolve delicate details and subtle colors with great accuracy.
In addition, your binoculars should be able to focus very quickly. If you can, try them in different lighting conditions to make sure they work well under low light conditions as well as regular and bright lighting. How close do they allow you to focus? If you wear glasses, is the eye relief long enough to enable you to see the whole picture? Are you able to see fine details at both the center and at the edge of the image?
Some binoculars include a digital camera that allows the user to take photographs of birds up close in their natural setting. This is yet another option for you to consider but can be well worth the extra cost for those who have an interest in photography as well.
As you can see, there are many things to consider when purchasing a good pair of binoculars for bird watching. Many of the choices you will have to make will be personal ones, such as how much weight you want to carry or which pair feels best in your hands. The best advice is simply to take your time, investigate the many options available, and then choose the pair of binoculars that you feel will work the best for you.