Prism Binoculars
Binoculars for Birders
Binoculars for Birders
With the beginning of Spring Migration it is time to consider investing in new binoculars. This is a proposition that can present itself in daunting ways. Careful consideration needs to be made whether a new birder or one who has spent some time in the field and acquired some expertise. The optics field is quite large and the number of products is considerable. How does one choose a binocular? Here are my suggestions.
First, determine just how and under what circumstances you will be using your new binoculars. If you are going to be walking then full size binoculars are certainly worth your consideration. However, if you are a backpacker or will be doing your birding on a bicycle, then you may wish to consider mid size or even compact binoculars. If you bird by sitting in a favorite spot, then larger binoculars could be your choice. Size matters when one considers the mode of birding. Size is dictated by the objective lens. Generally, if the objective lens is 50 mm then it is considered to be a large binocular; if it is 42 mm, it is full size; if it is 32 mm, it is a mid size. Finally, compacts have objective lenses 25 mm or less.
The size of the binocular will probably affect the way they feel in your hands. One should consider the ergonomics of one’s choice. In other words, does the model you are examining have the right heft? Do you feel comfortable while holding the binoculars to your eyes?
Coupled with the size of the objective is the light gathering ability of the lens and the field of view. Of course, the larger lenses tend to gather more light. The more important consideration should be the field of view. Those new to the game should consider obtaining a pair of binoculars that posses a large field of view. Field of view is often stated in feet viewable at 1000 yards. For example, the Stokes Talon has one of the largest field of view for its size lens, 420 ft. at 1000 yards.
One of the most significant advances in optics is in water and fog proofing. This has been accomplished in two ways. The first of which is changing the prism design. Roof prism binoculars are so much easier to water and fog proof because of internal focusing. The older porro prism design has external focusing and, therefore, is not easily water or fog proofed. The other facet to proofing is the gas used to purge the binocular.
Two gases are currently being used, nitrogen and argon.
Nitrogen and oxygen, if you remember, are the major components of air. Oxygen is the active ingredient while nitrogen is not. This basic chemistry is the reason for choosing nitrogen as the purging agent in many models. However, the real advancement is in the use of argon.
The Argon Binocular is the newest class of binoculars. Argon is a member of the Noble Gases. Noble Gases were at one time called the Inert Gases because of their inability to react. In fact, they are so unreactive that it was not until the 20th Century that they were even discovered. The point is that argon is now being used because it does not attack the o-rings and seals in the binocular, thus allowing for excellent water and fog proofing and extending the life of your binocular.
One more word…in my opinion, one should be prepare to purchase a binocular worthy of your endeavors. Spend the money on a pair of binoculars that you can afford. Do not waste your hard earned cash on a pair of cheap ones. This advice is given in much the same vein as buying all the house you can afford. Let’s face it; you are going to possess these binoculars for a long time. You want to be able to see the bird with clarity and ease. You want to become adept at identifying a bird correctly. So, you must be able to see it in all conditions, including some adverse situations. Your willingness to increase your budget will often provide you with a return in performance of your purchase.
These tips hopefully will lend themselves to your benefit. Enjoy your new binoculars and spend as much time as you can in the field.
About the Author
Roy Smallwood is the owner of Kingbirdfeeders.com. Roy began this enterprise after a 26 year career as a teacher of science. His love and enjoyment of the outdoors and birding in particular is the impetus for the company. He is an active member of the Central Texas Audubon Society. He encourages everyone to participate and enjoy birding whether in the backyard or in the field. Visit www.kingbirdfeeders.com for , binoculars and spotting scopes and happy birding!
Pentax 8×32 ED DCF Roof Prism Binocular – Review
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Brunton 355261 7 x 18 Echo Pocket Scope – Black $27.20 About the size of a film canister. Bak-4 prism glass, multi coated 2.6 mm exit pupil, 12 mm eye relief 180′ filed of view at 1000 yds, 1.1′ close focus Size: 1.3″ x 3.3″…. |
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Seco Mini Tilting Prism System 6450-00-BLK A miniture version of the Eclipse Total Prism System, the mini system includes the Mini Tilting Prism (#6451-00-BLK), a plumb bob attachment, Mini Bob Prism Mount (#6453-00), Point & Belt Case with a convenient blet loop. Weighs 0.3 lb (0.14kg)… |
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Vivitar 40 Piece Microscope Set $24.50 Vivitar 40 Piece Microscope Set… |
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Orbiter Electronic Listening Device $49.95 Capture the Sights and Sounds from 300 Feet Away! — Extraordinarily powerful, the Orbiter Electronic Listening Device brings sounds and images ordinarily impossible for human ears and eyes to perceive well within your reach. — You’ll find thousands of uses for this extraordinary device. Listen to a conversation happening a football field distance away, hear a concert from the back row as if you… |
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6x20mm Prismatic Binoculars $17.99 Young explorers will love these high-quality, lightweight binoculars, featuring the same internal prismatic reflection system found in much more expensive binoculars. The handy strap and protective pouch make it easy to grab for a quick nature hike, overnight trip, or the top bleacher seats! Simulated leather case included…. |
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Pentax 8 x 43 DCF ED Binoculars $999.00 8 x 43 DCF ED BinocularsThe PENTAX DCF ED 8×43 binoculars combine Extra Low Dispersion glass elements, full reflection and phase coated prisms, hybrid aspherical lens elements and fully multi coated optics. Built to last with JIS Class 6 waterproof construction, DCF ED binoculars feature a durable magnesium alloy body and a hard coating to protect exposed lens elements.Features:ED Optical glass el… |
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BUSHNELL OUTDOOR BUSHNELL 7 X 50 WATERPROOF / FOGPROOF BINOCULARS 137501 $237.98 Marine Binoculars.Bushnell suggests you keep them on board, but made their Marine series binoculars buoyant, waterproof and corrosion resistant, so a little dunking won’t deep-six your day. You’ll appreciate the ultra-bright, crisp views granted by their multi-coated optics and premium BaK-4 prism glass. Rugged rubber armoring provides a sure grip, absorbs shock and keeps them from sliding in roug… |
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Meade 6 Piece Outdoor Adventure Set $35.98 The 6 pieces are: 10 x 50mm Meade binocular, featuring Meade’s legendary optical technology and design, including solid, high quality construction. This binocular features multi-coated lenses for clear, bright viewing, rubber coating for durability. The rugged backpack easily holds your Meade binocular and all its accessories. Comfortable, padded shoulder straps, with waist and chest straps offer … |
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Bushnell Powerview 8×21 Compact Folding Roof Prism Binocular (Black) $12.96 The Bushnell(r) Powerview(r) Series of binoculars offers you compact, streamlined designs for bright, crisp views of wherever you’re exploring…. |
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Bushnell Powerview 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular $34.99 The Bushnell Powerview 8x32mm Roof Prism Binoculars offer a center focus binocular with multi-coated optics for bright, clear images. The binoculars come with carrying case, neckstrap and lens cloth. |
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Sharper Image 6x16mm Folding Roof Prism Binoculars $15.99 These compact binoculars from Boston Traveler deliver 6 x magnifications with a 16 mm diameter lens. These folding roof prism binoculars come with a small set-in compass and straps which allow hands-free portability. |
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Redfield Rebel 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular $119.99 The Redfield Rebel 8x32mm Roof Prism Binocular features fully multi-coated lenses and premium BAK4 prisms to offer brightness, high resolution and edge clarity. The armored aluminum body provides durability in an ergonomic design. |
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Redfield Renegade 7x50mm Porro Prism Binocular $99.99 The Redfield Renegade 7x50mm Porro Prism Binocular features fully multi-coated lenses and premium prisms to offer brightness, high resolution and clarity. The armored body provides durability and the porro prism design produces 3-D image reproduction. |
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Rokinon 8 x 22 Compact Roof Prism Binoculars $16.85 Compact, pocket-sized binocularsBuilt with titanium anodized materials and coated opticsBinoculars feature roof prism design8x magnification power |
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Rokinon 8 x 32 Fully Coated Roof Prism Binocular $27.04 Rokinon Special Performance binoculars capture innovation, technology, and precise performanceWith unparalleled attention to detail, comfort and quality, Rokinon binoculars stand apartBinoculars boast 8X magnification and 32 mm lens diameter |
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Galileo Binoculars with Compass, Clock and Thermometer $27.99 Galileo binoculars are totally digitalOptics provides a 25 mm power roof prismBinoculars are ideal for camping and the outdoors |
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10×42 Blackhawk Binoculars $0 Blackhawk binoculars soars high in performance. Impressive features, these rugged roof prism binoculars perform extremely well in all weather conditions and are a perfect companion on your next vacation, hike, sporting event and more! |
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Vivitar Sportsman 10×50 Heavy-duty Binoculars $38.99 Sportsman Series binoculars have advanced BK7 porro prismsBinocular lenses are multicoated to minimize flare and ghostingBinoculars have oversized center focus knob for easy operation |
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8×42 Blackhawk Binoculars $0 100-percent waterproof and fogproof, this rugged roof prism binocular set performs extremely well in all weather conditions. Other features include twist-up eyecups, BAK-4 prisms and a non-slip ergonomic rubber design. |