With a little advance preparation you can walk into any reputable binocular store and understand what the sales person is talking about as he or she explains what he or she has to sell. The salesperson is working for his company and even the most honest salesperson cannot give you the advice that is best for you unless you go in prepared.

There are four (4) steps to follow in preparing for your visit to a binocular store:

Step #1: Know what you really want.
Step #2: Learn binocular features and terminology.
Step #3: Decide an approximate amount that you would like to invest in the binocular.
Step #4: Be ready, willing, and able to explain what you need if you want the salesperson to direct you properly.

Step #1: How to find out what you really want.

Ask yourself how you will be using the binocular most of the time and how you might use it at other times.
For example: If your primary use is to be on a boat then you need a binocular that is best for marine use.
If your secondary use is for sporting events then you should know that a binocular that is best for boating is not
necessarily best for watching ball games.

Another example might be if you are going on a trip. A binocular best for carrying around sightseeing might be of little use during the years to come after your 2 or 3 week trip is over.

If you are a serious hunter it is important that you get a binocular that is designed and built for hunting.

In plain language all binoculars are not the same, and even binoculars with the same measurements are not the same. For example: there are 7x50 binoculars that sell for $19.95 and some that sell for as much as $1,995.00. Quality and features make the difference.

Step #2: Learn the most basic features and the terminology of binoculars. For more information on terminology and features see “Terminology and Features of Binoculars in Easy to Understand Language”.

Boating binoculars should be waterproof, rugged, and have good low-light capability. The preferred size is 7x50.
The “7” means that the object looked at will appear seven times closer. The “50” indicates that the objective lens (the big lens where the light enters) is 50mm in diameter. On a boat the weight of the binocular is not important because the boat is carrying the binocular most of the time. Fact is, a certain amount of weight is desirable as it makes it easier to hold the binocular steady. Hunting binoculars should also be waterproof, fogproof, rugged, and have good low-light capability, especially if you like to stay out late and get in a last shot before it gets too dark. Preferred size is determined to great extent on where you hunt - in the deep woods or in open country. The most popular sizes are 8 x 40 – 42 or 10 x 40 - 42.

Both sizes have advantages and disadvantages. In hunting the size and weight of the binocular are very important because you are carrying that binocular for hours and hours.At sporting events a binocular that gives you a wide field of view makes it easier to follow the action on the playing field. Here again size and weight are important. Water resistant may be just as good as waterproof and is less costly. 7x35 and 8x40 are the preferred sizes. At sporting events low-light capability is not very important because night games are held on a brightly lighted field.

Hikers and travelers prefer small lightweight compact binoculars. Kayakers prefer the small lightweight waterproof styles. 8x20 or 10x25 are usually preferred.

Step #3: How much should your binocular cost? “Quality” is the key word!

Let’s assume you are in a reputable store and the binoculars that you are looking at are made by a reputable factory:

Remember #1: The more quality that a factory builds into a binocular, the more it cost.
The lower the cost the lower the quality.
Therefore, to assure yourself many years of satisfaction from your binocular always buy the
best quality you can afford.

Remember #2: Most boaters prefer a binocular with a built-in compass - a practical feature, but it adds to cost.
Hunters may prefer having a binocular with a laser rangefinder built in. This is a very worthwhile feature, but it does add to your cost.

Remember #3: Never buy a binocular that does not have the features you need for your use!
For example: If you need a binocular that is waterproof do not settle for one that is not.

Step #4: Talk to the salesperson. Tell him or her how you will be using the binocular and also the approximate amount that you would like to invest. Ask this person to recommend several binoculars in your price range and ask about the features of each and why he recommends them. It is a waste of time and also confusing to look at binoculars selling for $1,000.00 if you had in mind to spend $200.00 to $300.00.
Because you will be using the binocular outdoors get permission to try it out outdoors. Look at the same distant object with each binocular – allow a minute between each sighting to allow the pupils of your eyes to adjust.
If it is necessary to look at objects within the store be sure to insist that you have return privileges if, after trying the binoculars outdoors, they prove unsatisfactory.

Never buy a binocular without return privilege if you cannot test it properly outdoors!

If you have any questions please contact us.

For more information about features
and terminology on binoculars
CLICK HERE!