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Ideal Specifications for Binoculars for Bird Watching

There are too many things to look for, while purchasing binoculars for bird watching as follows:

Speed of Focus:

Since a birding binocular needs to focus on both stationary birds and those in flight, a crisp, fast speed of focus is essential. Be sure to test this ability in the store before buying a set of binoculars.

Handling Qualities:

Other handling qualities you may encounter include adjustments for diopter (an added adjustment for individuals who require corrective lenses), specialized knob focusing mechanisms, and custom grips. Many of these items are a matter of individual taste and should be tried in the store before the purchase is made.

Eye Relief:

Although a wide variety of birding binoculars are manufactured by keeping the eyeglass wearers in mind, you may look for one which offers an eye relief of 14-15mm. This simply means that you can position your face a short distance behind the eyepiece to accommodate the frames of your eyeglasses without losing the full field of view in the binocular.

Field Of View:

Field of view is simply the area you can see through the eyepiece of the binocular. You want to avoid extreme wide views or those that are too narrow. Moderation is the rule of the day because it will center your focus but allow you to track the bird's movements without "losing" the creature.

Waterproofing:

It is advisable to purchase a watertight binocular as it can be used in extreme climates or if you're caught outside during a rainstorm. Watertight binoculars are also less prone to collecting condensation or becoming fogged in high humidity.

Lens Coating:

Lens coating improves brightness and clarity to the magnified images but coated lenses are expensive. If cost is not a factor, look for a "fully multi-coated lens" binocular.

Armoring:

Mostly binoculars are outfitted with a rubber coating or armoring which makes them shock-resistant and prevents scratches and stains. A bird watching binocular is a tool and it will take some abuse so buy a rugged instrument that can take the occasional fall without suffering catastrophic damage.

Weight:

An ideal bird watching specific binocular should weigh 995-1500 grams (between 2 and 3 lbs.)

Optical Quality And Price:

Depending on optical quality and usage type, binoculars for bird watching are available for $75 and above with more expensive models climbing to $300 and more. Whether the binoculars are for a wild bird watching tour or simple backyard bird watching, Avian, Optolyth, Bausch & Lomb, Canon, Leica, Bushnell, Nikon, Swarovski, Swift, Fujinon and Zeiss are some of the best and finest bird watching binoculars brands available.

Bird Flight: Masters of the Air
Basic Bird Watching Gear
How to Set Up a Backyard Bird Cam
Basics of Bird Photography