Which binoculars are for me?

Without pretending to know everything about the world of optics, we at Angling Active have put together this simple and non-technical buying guide to help you choose the right “BINS” for your purpose with the added bonus of lasting a lifetime.

As soon as you decide to start shopping for a pair of binoculars you are faced with different options, numbers, and terminology that could mean nothing to you. Hunting around for little bits of information online can be successful, ‘only if’ you know what to look for and find what you need. We have done all of the hard work for you here at Angling Active by narrowing our range of binoculars to one very special brand: VORTEX OPTICS. This brand covers a huge range of applications for those who go deer stalking, bird/wildlife watching, the races, sporting events, insect lovers or even indoors at the theatre or at the equestrian centre.

We wouldn’t presume to tell you what binoculars do or how they do it, but because of the range of applications our customers enquire about, there are specific advantages to particular models that will benefit you over other models. Factors contributing to your choice of binoculars are as follows:

Magnification (aka Strength)

This one seems pretty easy, the first number stated when choosing your bins is the magnification i.e. 10×42 – the “10” means x10 magnification. The range of magnifications we at Angling Active hold are x8, x10, and x12. These are explained.

X12 – You would choose the x12 if you are looking to really focus on distant objects that are easy found like horizons, buildings, or a horse/dog at the races. The increased magnification that you would think would be the best option for everyone comes with some drawbacks, mainly the field of view (width of what you see). The FOV in high magnification bins is narrow, proving to make searching for your target difficult because you have to really concentrate as to the location of the object. Generally, the higher the magnification the darker the image and there is more shake too. Shake can often result in requiring a tripod to stabilise your bins in the higher magnifications specs.

X8 – From one extreme to another, the smaller the magnification means generally a wider field of view (FOV) therefore finding your target is easy, you have more room for error, and less shake from your hands. More light comes in through x8 bins too, meaning you have a stunning image on sunny days, but more detail in darker conditions. The drawback is of course you are not seeing the target as large as a higher magnification pair of binoculars will show. These are great for hunters scanning/prospecting a hillside for prey, or birdwatchers as a second (beta) pair scanning a marshland to find the target and then use a stronger alpha pair to really zoom in.

X10 – This middle magnification in our range at the store here is as you’d expect a happy-middle-ground option. Great magnification, lots of light coming in, less shake and easier to find your target. These are by far the most popular magnification for general users without a specific purpose, a pair of bins that satisfy the user whatever you are viewing.

Objective Lens

This is the second number stated on the binoculars. i.e. 10×42 – the “42” means the biggest lens (closest to the subject) is 42mm in diameter. Other examples are 28, 32 and 50mm. The wider the lens the more light is introduced to the binoculars meaning a crisper image and detail within shadows are enhanced. A wider lens is great for darker conditions like dawn or dusk or overcast/indoor scenarios. A narrower lens is good for very bright conditions i.e. out on the sea. Generally, a larger objective lens is found on a higher magnification pair of bins because more light is lost with the increased magnification as explained above. So, if you are viewing objects at distance using x12 magnification, try to go for a larger objective lens for better results.

Close-Focus

We are rarely asked for a close-focus pair of binoculars, but these are what the name indicates. Great for insect viewing as close as 5ft from the binoculars. It is generally a case of the lower the magnification, the closer the focus is. i.e. a x8 pair will focus on the ground in front of you, a x12 may not.

Eyecups

Adjustable eyecups should be expected on all binoculars today, some cheaper brands however don’t offer the feature. The entire Vortex Optics range that we stock includes adjustable eyecups. The reason for an adjustable eyecup is quite simple. If you wear glasses, screw the eyecup in so that it is not extended and look through the binoculars against your glasses. Non-glasses wearers can unscrew the cup to provide a distance between your eye and the lens, this is called “relief”. The benefit of this feature to non-glasses wearers is that the eye cup blocks out all of the light at the eye for a clearer view.

Ergonomics

The Vortex Optics range we stock are all rubber coated for very good grip and ergonomically designed for comfortable use. If you are going to be wearing these around your neck all day, you want a pair that you can grip easily but also consistently every time you raise them regardless of gloves or no gloves, cold or sweaty conditions.

Other Specs

This is where you can read in to the individual pairs of binoculars we offer. Argon gas can reduce fogging, increase resolution and true colours. Extra low-dispersion glass is virtually scratch proof. Waterproofing is essential for rain but also accidental splashes or putting the bins down in wet grass etc. Anti-reflective coatings, light enhancing coatings etc are all available. Decide on what suits you and your needs and you’ll quickly find a pair that is ideal for you. You can even have double lens covers that fold to the left or right to stay out of the way of your dominant hand. Everything has been thought of.

Price Balanced with Value?

The fact that most people looking to buy binoculars are looking for the best deal is understandable. We suggest buying a pair that will offer a lifetime of use, “cheap” is to be avoided, value is the new go-to. The rule of thumb with optics until recent years has been to buy as expensive as you can afford. Though still a recommendation, brands like Vortex Optics have begun to level the playing field with extremely high quality binoculars at prices a fraction of their comparable competition like Swarovski’s. This is why we are so happy to put all our eggs in one basket with this amazing brand.

Undisputed Added Value

Having faith in your product as a manufacturer is key, and what could be more reflective of this as an “unconditional lifetime guarantee on your binoculars”?

Vortex Optics binoculars are covered by a VIP Warranty for any damage/faults, completely regardless of how the issue came about! A true benchmark for quality and aftercare that we wish every manufacturer could aspire to replicate.

We have all of our binoculars on display for you try out from our multi-storey showroom overlooking the River’s Forth and Teith and Stirling Castle. If you can’t come to visit us click the button below and learn more about our amazing binoculars. Between ourselves and our suppliers we can answer any query you have if you would like to contact us.