Posted on 11/10/2014 4:30:24 PM PST by Chickensoup
I know next to nothing about optics. I want to look at the birds more closely at the feeders at home. I will be looking through double paned windows. The feeders are four to ten feet away. Then there are the birds in the trees that are up to 25 feet away.
Any recommendations for binoculars? I wear glasses and am nearsighted.
I would appreciate any input. I think they are going to be my Christmas present to myself. That or a receiver for my old stereo that I am trying to resurrect. But that will be another thread!
Thank you all!
soup
Any recommendations for binoculars? I wear glasses and am nearsighted.
I would appreciate any input. I think they are going to be my Christmas present to myself. That or a receiver for my old stereo that I am trying to resurrect. But that will be another thread!
Thank you all!
soup
Light gathering power, resolution, zoom function these days, start with a low priced version to see what you really need to get your “job” done well enough.
No need to go expensive for this kind of use. Go to a store that carries binos and try a few.
Burris has good optics.
Bump to check later about binoculars.
Do NOT buy Barska. If you have a big box sporting goods store go there. They will have many choices. Keep in mind if you are going to watch for a long periods of time weight is an issue. Here at ranch we prefer Leopold but Vortex is and acceptable alternative.
I got a monocular. My eyes don’t work well together. It’s cheaper and easier to use.
There are a lot of specifications but give all due consideration for comfort. A large pair may see better but be cumbersome and unwieldy in use. A small pair might be easier to use but can get lost in clutter or cushions. Try to find one that fits your hand, has accommodation for eyeglasses and has easy controls.
I’ve worn glasses for about 15 years and that’s a problem when using binoculars. There’s lots of telescopes out there that can be connected to a computer. You might try checking them out. They wouldn’t be much good when the birds are moving but would be great when they are sitting. You’d also be able to take pics and videos. Just a thought.
An interesting alternative is a spotting scope - these are used in shooting to see your hits without having to go downrange. Big zoom, lots of light. Good luck!
Get a tripod and a Binoc with a mount.
PS Get a `real-deal’ harness for it, not just a neck strap that comes with it. Your neck will thank you!
I got the ones that freeze the image electronically. I have never been so amazed when using them. Made by Canon with “Image Stabilizer”.
ever consider a spotting scope? On a tripod in the window is great.
Go to a store and try a few
I finally gave up. Know use my Canon ti3 with a 200 mm zoom. That way I can use the image.
For your purpose, I would get an 8x42 pair. The field of range is broader and you won't notice a shake as much.
Nikon Monarch is the way to go. You can spend $500 more for a better optic, but why when you're only looking out your window?
I have enjoyed my Leica binoculars for over 20 years.
If I were shopping today, I would consider image stabilization.
First, the windows are going to take away a lot of the sharpness that the good optics of the binoculars can provide. And if the temperature is different outside/inside, you will lose even more.
Any binoculars over 8x power will be difficult to hand-hold steady for any length of time.
I would strongly recommend a spotting scope on a tripod. Of course 4-10 feet away might be too close for focus for even binoculars.
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