As hunters you have certain equipment requirements. You will definitely need good rifle, bow or other weapon (depends on the rules of the state/territory). Then you will of course need proper footwear and clothing which also includes base layers, etc. But what is the main thing you will need to observe the animals ? Yes, the good old telescope/binoculars. So what to look for in binoculars for hunting ?
Do two eyes see more ?
The first thing every hunter needs to think of when choosing the telescope is what type to choose. As we know, there are two types - monocular and binoculars.
Let´s make this straight. For hunting, the binoculars are pretty much the only option. Why is that ? They are simply more appropriate, convenient and adaptable for this use.
As you’re only using one eye with a monocular, you won’t get anything like the same depth of vision as you would using both eyes with binoculars. Also using one eye instead of two for sustained, intense focusing with a monocular can cause your eye to tire rapidly, leading to eye fatigue. The eye that you are not using may cause you some discomfort as you automatically try to rectify your vision over both eyes.
Dark and dusk conditions shouldn´t be problem
When observing, you will sometimes look at the enlightened place against the dark forest. In this case, the less light is allowed in. This shouldn´t limit you and that is why you need to choose binoculars with good field of view.
In general, the bigger the objective lens, the more light that is allowed in. Of course it may depend also on quality of the lens as well as on overall design.
With the binoculars you will always see two numbers. So for example something like 10x56. The first number is the magnification.
The second number that comes after the magnification refers to the size of the objective lens. Light gathering capability is crucial for first and last light glassing, so this is something to definitely pay attention to. For hunting, choose something between 50 – 60 mm objective lens, never less.
Some of the binoculars may be equipped with variable magnification ( for example 7-20x50).
The disadvantage of bigger magnification
As alread mention, the first number is the magnification. For hunting, you should choose rather standard binoculars with magnification approx 6x-8x. The bigger magnification also means a bigger, heavier binocular, so with the heavier binocular, you'll also need to carry a tripod.
How about some other features ?
Binoculars for hunters are usually quite expensive. In addition to good magnification and size of the objective lens they should also have another features. These include for example anti-fog feature, polarized lens, etc. They should also deliver excellent light transmission for sharp images.
What they should definitely have is the durable design - be water resistant and impact resistant as you can not get away from water and impacts, so think about it as well. Another features include rubberized finish for better handling, lens caps for protection and a neck strap.