Binoculars For Bird Watching

Bird watching binoculars can range in price from under £10.00 to over £1000.00 and if you plan to invest some serious cash in a pair then it is essential that you choose the right type to get the most out of your bird watching hobby.

Buying a cheap pair of binoculars will be a false economy as they are likely to pick up faults atht need repair and not last as long as a poor expensive model so try and spend as much as you can.

If you're worried that bird watching may not become a long term hobby you can pick up some very suitable binoculars for around the £50.00 mark and as long as you keep them in good condition and in their original packaging you will be able to sell them on an online auction site or through your local classified paper if you find that bird watching is not for you.

Don't make the mistake of buying binoculars with a very high magnification - these binoculars are not suitable for bird watching. Choose binoculars that have a magnification of around 7x or 8x and a lens with a diameter between 35 and 50. A larger lens will mean heavier binoculars which can be uncomfortable when carrying in the field.

You will probably want a neck strap for binoculars that you use for bird watching. Spend some time trying on the strap and adjusting it till it feels comfortable for you.

Once you have purchased your bird watching binoculars look after them to make sure they stay in good condition and to prolong their life.

If your binoculars get wet dry them thoroughly. If you think they may have got damp inside keep them in a warm place to dry out before you put them back in their case. Don't open up the binoculars no matter how tempting it is to inspect for water damage.

Unless your binoculars are waterproof don't expose them to sea air. Salt is very corrosive and can damage any inside parts.

Avoid touching the lens as much as possible. When cleaning the lens blow away any particles before gently wiping clean with a special lens cloth. When you buy your binoculars ask the supplier for a suitable cleaning cloth.

If you drop your binoculars they may become unaligned. If this happens take them to a specialist shop who will be able to adjust them for you.