Specialty Binoculars

Unlike a telescope, a set of binoculars allows the viewer the use of both eyes instead of just one. But is one set of binoculars just like another? Not at all. The people who use binoculars often have special purposes, and subsequently they have special needs. For that reason, the manufacturers of optical aids make specialty binoculars. If you are in a profession that requires the use of binoculars, or if you pursue a hobby that calls for a specific type of optical aid, there is a model of binoculars that has been designed just for your purposes.

Perhaps you are fascinated by the night sky. If you are an amateur astronomer, then you will want a good set of astronomical binoculars. You will need binoculars that function well in darkness, making the best use of limited light. Since you will be spending prolonged periods of time looking up, you will not want astronomy binoculars that are too heavy. Nor will you want an astronomy binocular that is too large for your hands, because that will cause discomfort and fatigue. Giant binoculars with maximum magnifying power are certainly an option for star gazers, but bear in mind that they can be costly and often require a tripod.

Does your work or hobby take you on or near water? Perhaps you’re a birder with an interest in water fowl. Or maybe you live by the sea (or the Great Lakes of North America) and like to zero in on passing ships. You might even be a professional involved in land and sea rescue. In any of those cases, you will need marine binoculars. Binoculars for marine use are waterproof, and made to withstand tough usage.

Are you a hunter? Hunting binoculars will certainly be of use to you in stalking game animals. A hunter needs binoculars that can take rugged use, are light to carry, and are waterproofed for those treks through wet woods. The best hunting binoculars can improve your chances of getting a trophy.

Perhaps you are a collector of military equipment. Surplus army binoculars are easily available, and you can enhance your collection with models from the armies of other countries. Through clubs, magazines and the Internet, you can purchase French military binoculars, Russian military binoculars, and even German military binoculars (vintage, on ebay – both World Wars).

Who prizes their specialty binoculars more than bird watchers? Birders, as they prefer to be called, know better than anybody how important it is to have the right binoculars. Some birding binoculars simply bring the subject up close. Other binoculars for birding are combined with digital cameras, so the viewer can preserve the moment.

Opera glasses are unique in that they are binoculars that are used indoors. They provide a dramatic view of just what is happening onstage. Opera glasses have a very long social history, and antique opera glasses can be quite valuable. Mother of pearl opera glasses were once an envied sign of social rank.

Binoculars are not so simple after all. Be sure to find a set that is suited to your specialty.