Most consumers are not exactly sure what the magnification numbers on a pair of binoculars really mean. Today we are going to focus on the objective lens as well as give you 7 matters to consider before purchasing your next pair of binoculars

The Objective Lenses is the second number when describing a model of binoculars, such as 8x42. 42 refers to the diameter in millimeters of the objective lenses – the big lenses farthest from your eyes. The larger the diameter of the objective lenses, the brighter the image you’ll see, and even small increases in the diameter can make a big difference in the brightness of your view – for distance viewing a pair of 8x 50’s is hard to beat.

Brightness can make all the difference in the performance of binoculars. Hunters like brightness for several reasons: A brighter image obviously means you can see more detail. Brightness is also important low light conditions. Extra brightness equals the image not becoming as dark when an animal moves into shadows. A large objective lens really pays off in low-light conditions, such as at dawn or dusk or on overcast days. Compared to human eyes, a larger objective lens can gather more light. So, when it comes to brightness, a bigger objective lens really is better.

7 Important Matters to Consider when purchasing Binoculars

1. What is your price range? -Top-of-the-line binoculars normally give you the best image. Lower price ranges also offer some great options, thanks to advances in technology in the last decade. It is normally true that the more you pay for binoculars the better the experience although 2 pair of $500 binoculars by two manufacturers put side by side are rarely equal.

2.Magnification - Your choice of 8x and 10x binoculars is personal. Usually, 10x are better at far distances. But you will normally sacrifice a narrower field of view and a darker image in low light. An 8x will give you a smaller image that’s brighter, wider, and easier for finding and following animals.

3.Physically Compare Models - People look through binoculars in different manners and no two people will look through a set of binoculars in the same exact manner. The shape of face, how you focus, the size of your hands, your vision—all matter. We would suggest selecting a few models from manufacturers such as Vortex, Leupold and Burris and then attempt to look through each model before choosing. You will most likely decide on a clear cut favorite.

4.Brightness, crispness, true color - Image quality is of utmost importance. How bright are the binoculars? How sharp? Are the colors true? Do they resolve details in a backlit image? Keep in mind that most stores are much better lit than the lighting you will have when you are hunting.

5.Eye relief - Many binoculars have eyecups that retract for eyeglass wearers or provide shading for those without glasses. If you wear glasses, adjust the eyecups and make sure there’s enough eye relief—there should be no black rings around the image.

6.Warranty - Pay attention to durability, waterproofing, and warranty—most major optics companies now offer excellent warranties.

7. Usage - How do you hunt? If mostly from a blind a larger set of binoculars will not be an issue. If you spot and stalk you will want to consider dimensions and weight. What is the average distance you need to view?

Conclusion:
There are many other factors that have not been discussed that we will cover in future articles such a Roof Prism vs Porro Prism, magnification (The other number). What do the terms Nitrogen -Filled, Fog Proof, Shock Proof and Waterproof really mean? What does Lens Coating mean to the average hunter? How does the grade of glass effect my view? What about night vision optics? Range Finding Binoculars? Many topics to discuss but in the meantime, this should help you start deciding which pair of binoculars you may wish to purchase next.