Buying a pair of binoculars can be a bewildering experience. There are so many advanced versions in the market that you'd end up picking up a fancy one. Here's our guide (strictly for an amateur) to buying one.

Look for the field of view:

Near the eyepiece, you will notice that it has a multiplication sum printed on it (for example, 8x40). The first number indicates the number of times the binocular magnifies (in this case it is eight times). The second number is the diameter of the objective lens in millimetres. Higher magnification means that you will have a smaller field of view (the desired object will appear smaller than when seen through the naked eye).

The light gathering power:

This is indicated by the exit pupil diameter and is calculated by dividing the objective lens diameter by the magnification. A higher exit pupil diameter indicates greater light-gathering power - and lower eye strain when you use the binoculars in the woods or in dim light.

Cost:

A reasonably good one would cost around Rs 1,200 - 3,000. This is suitable for a beginner. Brands made in Russia cost around Rs 1,200 and Japanese Binoculars like Nikon and Pentax would cost around Rs 4,000 (the Russian models are also available in the grey market). You can also opt for a second-hand piece. Brands like Minolta, Leica and Zeiss would cost as much as Rs 20,000.

Type

Pick a pair that is not too heavy to hold steady. Remember that you should also be able to reach the focussing rotor with little or no trouble.

Check the colours:

If the lenses are of poor quality, a coloured outline appears around the images. Compare models for the sharpness of image. Focus on a straight line, such as a window sill, and watch for distortions at the edge of the lens. Try them out in natural light.

Now that you know what to look for, go ahead, make your pick and have a great time while you are there in the great outdoors!

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