Military Binoculars Meet Many Needs

Many hunters, outdoorsmen and even detectives want the best when it comes to making long-range observations and are turning to military binoculars to meet their needs. Whether for strict daytime use or night vision, many companies can supply a variety of military binoculars.

Configurations such as 7X50, 12X45 and 20X60 can be extremely confusing, but knowing what the military binoculars will be used for can help determine which configuration is going to work for you. Planning long-range observations in less than idea light conditions, you may want to consider the 20X60 configuration. It offers a magnification of bringing images up to 20 times closer and has a 60 rating of light gathering ability.

The design of binoculars will also help determine part of the expense of your military binoculars. Those with porro prism optics are of the traditional hump shape and usually are less expensive. However, they are a little harder to waterseal than military binoculars with roof prisms, which have a straighter, more sleek design.

More Features Equal More Money

Center focus is the standard means for quick focusing, but some military binoculars come equipped with individual eyepiece focusing capabilities. These hardly ever need adjusting beyond 30 or 40 yards, but for close observation, adjustments will most likely be required and since you have to adjust both eyepieces, it will be slower.

Lens coatings add to the brightness of the image seen through binoculars and most costing less that $100 includes that feature. Costs may rise when all the lenses in a pair of military binoculars have several coatings to improve image enhancement. Any binocular costing under $300 should be checked to verify it has this feature.

Durability, comfort and waterproof are additional features which may tack on a few dollars, but remember that rubber coating do not always make military binoculars waterproof or resistant. It will, however, make them shock resistant, which is important feature for rugged or outdoor use. This will protect them from the bumps of daily use. Waterproofing will protect the insides from damage to the elements, most good for full submersion of about 10 meters.

Comfort is in the design of the binoculars as well as the weight. The larger the lens the more weight and, although many people believe bigger is better, close range viewing may make catching an entire image more difficult to see, while adding more pounds to your military binoculars.