How to Choose Birding Binoculars.

Most binoculars are multi-purpose and can be used for a variety of different activities including birdwatching, nature observation, hunting, sporting events, hiking, concerts and more. A high quality binocular will allow you to see fantastic details, identify birds from great distances, and is the most important tool for any birding enthusiast. 

The binocular you choose depends on what you're going to be using them for and under what conditions they will be used. Binoculars come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and specifications. No one binocular is perfect for all situations. Determining the primary use of the binoculars is one of the most important factors in choosing the right binocular for your needs. 

Essentially, a binocular is two low powered telescopes mounted together. Binoculars allow a more comfortable viewing experience by using both eyes instead of one and they have two basic functions;

• to gather more light than the unaided human eye and 

• to enlarge the image you're looking at. 

You'll want to consider some of the following factors when choosing a binocular; magnification (power), field of view, size, weight, eye relief, exit pupil, prisms, type of coatings, aperture, and near focus. 

The power (or magnification) of a binocular is represented by the first number for hand held binoculars and indicates how much larger, or closer, the object will appear than with normal unaided vision. For example, with a 8x42 binocular, the first number (8) is the binocular power. A binocular of 8 enlarges (or magnifies) the image eight times the size as seen by the normal, unaided eye. More power is not necessarily better. As magnification increases, brightness and clarity may decrease and the field of view is usually more restricted.

Rachel's Robin carries Audubon Binoculars, which we feel are the best in the industry.  They are a result of extensive planning, field consultation and rigorous testing by the Audubon staff. Audubon binoculars were designed to meet the needs of those who appreciate and enjoy optimum performance and unparallel value in fine optics. We know you'll be delighted with Audubon binoculars and how they will help you connect with your world.