HUNTING BINOCULARS

There are literally hundreds of binoculars on the market that would make a good hunting pair. The best choices are waterproof, fog proof, and lightweight for easy carrying. You might also add “performs well in low light,” which means small magnification power and a larger objective lens size to let in more light. Of course you need something rugged and durable to hold up to the rigors of the field. There are also some with special features for hunting, such as camouflage and built-in rangefinders.

Rangefinder Hunting Binoculars

A rangefinder is a device that measures the distance between you and a distant object by means of a laser beam. When you use a rangefinder the laser travels to the object you’re focused on and returns; the rangefinder measures the speed at which the beam returns and gives you an approximation of that object’s distance from you, usually expressed in yards or meters. Don’t count on a precise, pinpoint measurement, though. Any number of variables can affect the speed of the laser beam: the surface of the object (rough or smooth, light or dark), the angle at which the laser hits, weather conditions, and the amount of light available. Two makers of high-quality rangefinder binoculars are Leica and Zeiss.

Camouflage Hunting Binoculars

The idea of camouflage hunting gear is to help you blend into your surroundings. You’ll be more noticeable if your jacket is red or bright blue; a camouflage jacket makes you look like just another tree. The same idea applies to binoculars, too. Most binoculars are black, but there are many that are green, brown, or olive drab. To be extra careful, try out one that comes in camouflage. Nikon, Leupold, and Bushnell offer camo versions, as well as other makers.

Compact Hunting Binoculars

The chief advantages of compact binoculars are, of course, small size and weight. Who wants to lug around heavy glasses when you’re hoping to be lugging around some trophies? Most compact hunting binoculars feature magnification in the 8X to 10X range, with objective lenses measuring between 20 and 28 millimeters. Leica and Bushnell are two makers of quality compacts.