/r/Binoculars

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A place to ask questions, discuss and share stories relating to all types of Binocular usage including but not limited to Astronomy, Nature, Hunting and Marine.

Welcome to /r/Binoculars

A place to ask questions, discuss and share stories relating to all types of Binocular usage including but not limited to Astronomy, Nature, Hunting and Marine.

Please enjoy your time here and feel free to subscribe if you would like to.

Helpful Binocular Guides

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Rules

1. Please remain kind and civil at all times. Please be respectful and remain kind and civil to all users at all times.

2. Do not directly advertise your own items on this page.

Do not advertise your business or sell personal items on this sub.

Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis for general chat about items for sale ie; deals on Craigslist/eBay/Amazon or Binocular retailers.

Linking to items in comments is fine as long as you gain no benefits from doing so.

3. Excessive promoting of users own content. Please be respectful of this sub and other users and do not excessively promote your website, reviews, channel or videos.

Related Subreddits

/r/Optics

/r/telescopes

/r/Binoculars

8,699 Subscribers

1

Help me get my boyfriend a Christmas present

Hello! So my boyfriend (23 male) is super into the outdoors. He loves camping, fishing, and just admiring the environment. He mentioned a few weeks ago how he would love a good pair of binoculars.

I assume so he can check out spots while fishing or bird watching. I don’t think he knows too much about binoculars but I want him to have what professionals recommend. Something that is easy to carry, has great vision, and is built to last.

I looked into the Vortex and they have some for a good price but I’m not sure what size/scope I should get him.

Also my first time posting on Reddit.

What would be a good pair of binoculars for him?

14 Comments
2024/12/03
05:08 UTC

3

Won Fuji 8x42 Binoculars - What Can I Do With Them?

Hello!

I’m a photographer and filmmaker who entered a Fuji Sweepstakes. I was notified that I won a prize of binoculars.

I am debating between selling them and using the money for a camera lens or keeping them as a practice into relaxing and living in the moment, plus an excuse to dive into something unexpected, and rediscovering the world through a new perspective!

I have always wondered what potential uses there could be for binoculars. Obviously I know birdwatching is a big one; would love to hear about your experience with that/why you fell in love with the hobby/how to get started/what else you use binoculars for!

6 Comments
2024/12/03
03:02 UTC

1

Geometry vs. Magnification

So many of the requests here are for a binoculars recommendation for a specific use. There seems to be default recommendations based on magnification and primary lens size as well as lens clarity and brightness. I would suggest that geometry is as important as any of those. By geometry I mean the ability to get a still image comfortably. I have 10x42 that I get great views from with ok glass vs a 7x50 with stunning glass because I can’t hold the latter steady no matter what I do (tripod excepted). The 10x42’s I can jam my elbows in and get the lens cup in the perfect spot on my cheek bones. The 7x50’s weigh a ton and I can’t create a solid holding position. What is frustrating for the online buyer, which is 90% of the universe at this point, is you can’t test a pair in your hands to assess this. Also, this is unique to every person. Hand size, arm length, etc. Not sure what point I’m making other than, if you can, you might need to buy 5 pairs and return 4?

2 Comments
2024/12/03
02:58 UTC

1

Entry level binoculars help

Hi there! Looking to upgrade a pair of binoculars that I've had for like 10 years. One says Tasco fully coated model 304, 7x35, 358 ft at 1000 yds/119 m/1000 m. The other is a sharper image 7x50 coated optics 297 ft at 1000 yds. Just to give you an idea of what I've used before. Many people are suggesting Nikon p7 or M5 or M7, or the vortex diamondback. Someone mentioned scoopx UHD and another person recommended one of the Zeiss binoculars. Just looking for more thoughts!

This would be for traveling and looking at wildlife, birds, hiking. We travel to Costa Rica often and there is lots of wildlife there. I was thinking of a budget up to maybe $300 but would spend more if it was worth it. Thanks!

7 Comments
2024/12/02
22:18 UTC

1

Vortex viper HD vs Leupold bx4 gen 2 vs athlon cronus

Looking for a new set of mid tier hunting binos. These are all on sale for BF. anyone with first hand experience out there? Also for white tail and varmint hunting do you recommend 10x42 or 10x50?

6 Comments
2024/12/02
20:53 UTC

0

Bets binoculars under $50?

I like to hike and would like to get some compact binoculars that are not too heavy and that I can bird watch with or see deer with. I saw some on Amazon under this price range but I am not a professional!

2 Comments
2024/12/02
20:49 UTC

0

Trying to buy a pair for around 100

I was looking at these on amazon but am confused at the difference https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-71332-Nature-Binocular-Green/dp/B00B73JONS

https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-Binoculars-Binocular-Multi-Coated-Waterproof/dp/B0B7CNPNJV?th=1

would either of those be good or should i go for something else for around 100$?

6 Comments
2024/12/02
20:02 UTC

1

Slight grit or “sand” in focus ring of new vortex triumphs

Terrible title, but basically as I get to one end of the focus spectrum using the middle focus ring, there’s as gritty sound like there’s sand or something inside. Brand new set from Amazon from a 100% trusted seller. It’s very minimal, but I’m worried. Should I swap out for a new pair?

0 Comments
2024/12/02
16:38 UTC

1

Svbony?

Would anyone have any idea if there is much difference between svbony sv28 or sv406p ed? I've never had a scope before so im a complete novice. Thank you! https://amzn.eu/d/5991CLd https://amzn.eu/d/gDtomCT

2 Comments
2024/12/02
15:00 UTC

2

Alaskan Cruise binoculars

I am taking a cruise along the Inner Passage in Alaska in May 2025. I currently own a pair of Bushnell 7 x 35 binoculars. Will these be enough for going on the ship? On land excursions? I have also booked a helicopter trip to a glacier.

If these are too small or otherwise not likely to be sufficient, please recommend what I should take with me.

TIA for any advice.

11 Comments
2024/12/02
14:27 UTC

1

Vortex razor 13-39x56 vs Swarovski atc / stc 17–40

Has anyone had the chance to compare these two optically? Is there a difference? Is the swarovski worth 1k extra compared to the razor?

0 Comments
2024/12/02
13:51 UTC

1

Can you help me identify?

https://preview.redd.it/la2vr2wdnf4e1.png?width=302&format=png&auto=webp&s=e1f11be4916d6c7736aabd5cd928d427e5d33eea

https://preview.redd.it/rg7lg58qnf4e1.png?width=302&format=png&auto=webp&s=5c8d49d39adbdc6d2dc21ac506f30c65cfac04f4

Whay does 2 in triangle and k belowe symbol mean and what does scratched F mean in my binocullar?havent seen same symbols in other these model or simillar binos

3 Comments
2024/12/02
12:59 UTC

0

light travel binoculars

Hi, just looking to buy my first set of binoculars for travel, going to Sri Lanka and then Uganda next year.
Seem to be so many different versions the Olympus 8 x25 WP II and Nikon Travelite 8x25 seem about the right size and budget for a first pair of binoculars - any thoughts on which are better?
Thanks for any assistance

(would like something that gives equivilant to a 400mm on full frame Sony camera)

0 Comments
2024/12/02
11:21 UTC

2

Opticron Explorer WA ED-R 8x32 vs. Vortex Diamondback HD 8x28/32

I am looking to get my first pair of binos primarily for use on walks particularly in areas with a lot of birdlife to view through them.

I am in the UK and wear glasses (minor astigmatism) and am nearly 50 (mentioning this for pupil size reasons).

I want something reasonably portable and not too heavy so that I actually take them with me when I go out. That rules out anything above a 32, realistically.

I've narrowed it down to 3 choices:

  • Vortex Diamondback HD 8x28
  • Vortex Diamondback HD 8x32
  • Opticron WA Explorer WA ED-R 8x32

Would love to get any insight from you folks on which way I should go. Leaning towards the third option based only on price at this point, but would love to get more opinions (including, "forget those, at this price point you should go for this other option").

Thanks!!

5 Comments
2024/12/02
11:13 UTC

1

Need - Astronomy

I need a binocular for sky gazing, hopefully some planets and stars. Can you please suggest some good binoculars (not super heavy or needing a tripod). Alternatively do you suggest I invest in a telescope (much of a hassle setting it up and the whole calibration etc).

4 Comments
2024/12/01
20:46 UTC

1

Need a new case

I recently inherited binoculars but the case is destroyed and I can't find only a case for my binoculars and when I find a seller there selling both the binoculars and case for 170$+, so I'm just wondering if anyone knows whether my binoculars will fit into another companys case as this was mass produced (They are vintage 1960-1970 limer triple tested field 7.1 7x50 coated optics.)

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0 Comments
2024/12/01
06:48 UTC

2

Nikon M7 vs HG

Any preference? Is HG worth the significant price increase? First pair of binoculars that I'm looking to make a serious investment into for use for traveling looking at birds/wildlife in places like jungle, safari, etc

7 Comments
2024/12/01
06:26 UTC

6

Is this a good deal?

Local pawn shop has these camouflage Kahles 10x42 binoculars for $120. Fairly difficult to find info online, but what I have been able to find basically tells me that they’re a great deal at that price. Can anyone confirm or deny?

2 Comments
2024/11/30
21:56 UTC

4

Want to buy my sister binoculars for bug and bird watching, but she must wear her glasses. Can anyone recommend a good option?

I am hopelessly clueless about this. I got very excited to buy her Pentax Papilio until I realised she must keep her glasses on always. Now I am wondering if I need to rethink this plan...

12 Comments
2024/12/01
13:39 UTC

1

Help?!?

I recently inherited binoculars but I can not find anything about them I would like to know some general information like what year they came out etc. if you know anything about them please share! (They are limer triple tested field 7.1 7x50 coated optics.)

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9 Comments
2024/12/01
00:33 UTC

1

Binoculars recommendation for a beginner 100-150 Euros

I'm searching for a Christmas present for my g/f. She wants a set of binoculars for birdwatching and general nature watching. It doesn't need to be super compact. I've searched through this subreddit and there are a lot of the same question but not in this exact price range, and not in the EU. (I'm in Germany)

Any tips are much appreciated x

10 Comments
2024/11/30
17:18 UTC

0

NOCS Monocular/Inspector Microscope Thread Size?

Was wondering if anyone knew the thread size?

I’m looking to make a quick-disconnect with some magnets. But can’t find this information on their website

0 Comments
2024/11/30
17:04 UTC

1

Looking for binoculars HELP

I'm looking to purchase binoculars for wildlife viewing while traveling. I do a lot of traveling to Costa Rica and plan to visit other places in central/South America as well as Australia in the near future. Looking for something I can take while hiking and look at wildlife and birds up in trees and far away. Bonus points for night vision and recording capabilities or smart phone attachment option. Budget maybe around $300 but would pay more for the right product. Thanks!!

20 Comments
2024/11/30
03:18 UTC

2

Nocs Monoculars

Looking at getting some affordable binoculars or monoculars for my family as a Christmas Gift. Would the Nocs 8 x 32 monoculars work well for an Alaskan vacation (whale watching, sightseeing etc) for my wife and I and kids age 14 and 10 (almost 11) at time of travel

3 Comments
2024/11/29
23:36 UTC

35

Just picked up!

Earlier this week I asked for advice on which binoculars to buy within about $200 budget.

Got suggested these guys and after looking through them and their competitor, made the purchase!

Leopold 10x52 Alpine BX-2 HD.

So just wanted to say thanks!

18 Comments
2024/11/29
17:32 UTC

1

Buying advise: budget stargazing binoculars for a kid

Hi. I'm looking to buy entry level stargazing binoculars for a kid (and maybe occasionally for their parents).
This is definitely for casual viewing/getting into (i.e. looking at the Moon/Mars/bigger clusters, not far dim galaxies) , so my search boiled down to:
– should be relatively light to be handheld
– 7x50 – 8x50
– porro

I'm buying this in Germany, couple of options I'm gravitating towards:

  1. Celestron Cometron 7x50. Despite super-low price, it has surprisingly good reviews everywhere I look. Also incredibly light, compared to other porro-prism binos in similar range.
  2. Bresser SF 7x50 WP. Caught my eye b/c of low/discounted price + Bak4 glass for this price range.

Could someone please give opinions on those? Is there better option for under €200? Or I'm completely missing some point on what to look for?
Thx.

5 Comments
2024/11/29
12:51 UTC

9

What’s the Best Black Friday Binocular Deal You’ve Found? Let’s Share, Compare, Get & Give advice

Hello everyone

As many of you may know, I am the binocular reviewer over at Best Binocular Reviews (BBR).

With Black Friday and what I do for a living, it is hard not to come across as spammy or promotional, but here goes:

Leading up to this Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Holiday season, it has been part of my job to look for and highlight on BBR what I feel are the more worthwhile Black Friday binocular deals I’ve come across.

However, I am sure there are many that I have missed. Also, there may be "deals" that you have come across, which you may not be sure about - so either the deal may be better somewhere else, or you may not be sure about the binocular - ie is it a rubbish binocular (amazon is good at this).

So on this post:

  1. Share any binocular deals you’ve spotted, including the retailer and discount details. #SharingIsCaring
  2. If you’ve got your eye on a specific deal but aren’t sure if it’s worth it, feel free to ask! As well as all the other great advice from others on this sub, I’ll do my best to give an unbiased, fact-based opinion and let you know if I think it’s a good buy or if there might be better options.

Good Deals: For context, some of the deals I’ve found include significant discounts on Zeiss Terra ED, Vortex Diamondback, and Nikon Monarch binoculars. But I’m curious to see what you’ve discovered!

Bad-to-Good: I've also documented a "deal" on the Vanguard Endeavour II 10x42 binoculars, which were being offered at $499.99, with the deal advertised as 19% off (save $120.00) - sounds good and some may have bought it, but this was based on the original RRP of $619.99! Another site was selling the EXACT same binoculars for $399.99 and then with some work I eventually discovered them for sale at $250!! This is $249.99 less than the "deal" being offered at the first site!

So, let’s help each other navigate these Black Friday sales and make informed decisions. After all, getting the right pair of optics isn’t just about the price - it’s about the value you get for your money and making sure you get the right binoculars for your specific needs.

Looking forward to hearing what you’ve found or helping with any questions! 😊

Happy deal hunting, Jason

23 Comments
2024/11/29
08:36 UTC

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