Feeling good

Don’t buy binoculars you haven’t tried because different types suit different people, and you can’t always expect the people who make binoculars to own up to their failings. 

Make sure you can look through them with both eyes at once without strange black shapes looming at the side of your vision. Some binoculars don’t fold closely enough together. What you see should be in a sharp, black circle, without any unusual colours around the edges of what you are looking at. The image should be clear right to the edge. 

Make sure that you can reach the central focusing wheel comfortably so you can follow flying birds. And see how well balanced they feel in your hands. Remember too, that you may carry your binoculars all day, so buy a light pair if you can. And check the strap. All straps are too long, and many are so thin that they feel as if they are cutting into the back of your neck. You can always replace the strap later. 

If you wear glasses, make sure you choose binoculars that have fold-down eye-cups. Rubber-coated binoculars often feel better for most people. They are warmer in winter and easier to grip, and the rubber will help protect against damage from minor knocks.