Many people like the idea of using a compact binocular that they
can slip into a shirt pocket, whether it is for bird watching, the
theatre, or to get a better view at sporting events. But quality compact
binoculars are very difficult to manufacture, and there are a lot of
very bad buys out there. So what do you need to look out for, and how do
you choose the best compact binoculars?
Well
firstly, lets look at the drawbacks of compact binoculars. Compact
binoculars typically come in 8x and 10x magnifications, with objective
lenses usually of either 20mm or 25mm in diameter. Because of these
small objective lenses, the glass and lens coatings need to be of
premium quality in order to retain an acceptable level of brightness.
The same goes for the very tiny prism used in this type of binocular, it
needs to be manufactured to fine tolerances and have phase correction
for the binocular to be usable.
In addition to the above design
requirements, compact roof prism binoculars also have a very small exit
pupil. This can make eye placement difficult and can make them tiring to
use for any length of time.
All of this does sound very negative,
but the fact of the matter is that quality compact roof prism
binoculars are very difficult to manufacture, and therefore you do need
to pay a premium to get yourself a good and usable instrument. If you
look at the 8x20 or 10x25 models from top brands such as Leica,
Swarovski, Zeiss and the Nikon LX-L and do not want to part with that
sort of money, then you are probably better off looking for a slightly
larger binocular such as an 8x32 or possibly a small porro-prism model.
Because these are less demanding to manufacture, you will typically get a
better view dollar for dollar than with true compact binoculars, and
often they are not that much more bulky to carry around.
To
summarize, the best compact roof prism binoculars are the rather
expensive offerings made by Leica, Swarovski and Zeiss. My advice would
be to steer clear of cheap compact binoculars, and instead go up
slightly in size to an 8x32 binocular as a better compromise.
If hope you have enjoyed my article and found the information
useful. If you would like to read more about binoculars, please visit my
site:
http://www.binocularsforbirdwatching.info for more binocular information and
binocular reviews all geared towards the bird watcher.