Improve Your Expedition with Quality Birding Optics

If people had eyes with the visual acuity of eagles, we might not need binoculars. But, given the visual equipment we come into this world with, we need some supplementary optical aids.

If you want the best views of birds then you need the right birding optics.  These primarily include your binoculars and spotting scope.

You’re better off spending a little more money to get the correct equipment that’s just right for you. If you don’t, you’ll be wasting a lot of time struggling to get a good look at that particular bird that you’ve been searching for.  Bad spotting optics will leave you feeling dissatisfied with your bird watching experience.  Let’s start then, with your binoculars.

First, your binoculars. And this should not be one that you borrow from someone else.  Each person has a different set of requirements in regard to how the binoculars feel in their hands--the weight, the touch, how steady they are in that person’s hand. So what will work for your friend may not work for you. You may need something lightweight.  So invest the money to buy yourself a pair. 

Buy waterproof binoculars that will prepare you for any changing weather conditions because these binoculars are sealed. This will prevent lens steaming; no water vapor can form inside. When shopping for binoculars, you can recognize these types by the words “nitrogen purged” or “nitrogen filled” on the packaging.

Test the binoculars before you buy, especially if you wear glasses.  Better to get binoculars with long eye relief.  This feature is recommended whether you wear glasses or not. And pay particular attention to the way the eyecups fit.  Check for magnification and image quality as well. A 10 power is generally recommended.  Spend some time surfing the web for birding binoculars reviews.

Now on to scopes.  Your spotting scope takes you beyond the reach of the average binoculars. That is, it will extend your view for longer ranges than the binoculars can cover. Popular opinion is that the angled scope is better for birding, simply because it saves you the time adjusting a straight-through scope when the object of your view is in sight.  Essential to a good scope is the aiming device that will allow you to find your birds quickly.

As with your binoculars, the spotting scope should be nitrogen filled so the lens won’t fog up and they should be lightweight. Keep in mind that you will be carrying this equipment around for long periods of time.

Remember, the success or failure of your birding expedition depends a lot on your selection of birding optics.