Birding Binoculars Specifications

In this article, we’ll discuss some useful birding binoculars specifications that will assist in your understanding of how binoculars work. Such an understanding will aid in your decision to purchase, and in the end, be sure this tool gives you maximum benefit as you practice your hobby.

Prior to reading this information, I urge you to read the introduction first. Click here to read essential information about bird watching binoculars. In this article, we’ll address:

  1. Eye Relief
  2. Close Focus
  3. Weather Proofing
  4. Warranty

  1. Eye relief

    This refers to the furthest distance behind the binoculars’ eyepiece that the whole field of view can be attained. The number is measured in millimeters.

    Without proper eye relief, the eyeglass wearer will not see the full field of view. If you wear glasses or plan to use your binoculars for a long stretch of time, you want an eye relief measurement of at least 15mm.

    Keep in mind that eye relief of a binocular can vary from 5mm to as much as 23mm.

  2. Close focus!This is the maximum distance to which a pair of binoculars can be focuses. Bird , butterfly and insect watchers need binoculars that focus down to 10 feet or less.

  3. WeatherproofingThis is simple. If waterproof and fog-proof, your bird watching binoculars will last longer. Binoculars that are truly weatherproof go through a process called nitrogen-purging. This is a process whereby the internal atmosphere of a binocular is purged and replaced with an moisture-free inert gas. This ensures that the binocular will not fog internally from high humidity.

  4. WarrantyYou should consider the warranty of your binocular as a feature. Generally, there are limited and unlimited warranties. The former covers manufacturer defects. The latter is much more extensive and doesn't care how damage occurs (excepting down right abuse). This warranty is often referred to as “no-fault.

    Look for the latter--vortex has such a warranty!

The preceding information should aid you in the selection of your birding binoculars. Binoculars are an essential tool of your hobby, so choose wisely!!


I hope you found this article about birding binoculars useful. Click here for a great introduction to bird watching binoculars. Click here for more great information about bird feeders and bird houses.

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