Good hunting binoculars help you spot game before it spots you, and judge a shot, a rack or a ridgeline from a long way off. Our collection covers waterproof, fog-proof binoculars for hunting in 8x42, 10x42 and compact formats, with bright glass for first and last light. Not sure which to pick? Start with the guide below.
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Collection: Binoculars
Our full range of binoculars, from 160 g (5.6 oz) opera glasses to 80 mm astronomy models. The quickest way to choose is by what you plan to watch: an 8x or 10x pair covers birds, hikes and games, while 12x and above work best braced or on a tripod.
How do you choose binoculars?
Start with the two numbers in the name. In 10x42, the 10 is the magnification and the 42 is the diameter of each front lens in millimeters. More magnification brings the subject closer; a larger lens gathers more light.
Then match the pair to the job. This table is the shortcut we would give a friend:
| You mostly want to… | Good starting point | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Watch birds | 8x42 or 10x42 | binoculars for bird watching |
| Carry them on hikes and trips | 8x25 to 12x32 | compact binoculars |
| Hunt at dawn and dusk | 10x50 | hunting binoculars |
| Use them on a boat | 10x42 or 10x50, waterproof | marine binoculars |
| Look at the Moon and stars | 60 to 80 mm lenses, on a tripod | astronomy binoculars |
| Enjoy a show from the balcony | 3x25 opera glasses | opera glasses |
| Give a first pair to a child | 2.5x to 4x with a strap | kids binoculars |
8x or 10x: which magnification?
For most people, 8x or 10x is the right answer. An 8x pair shows a wider, steadier view and makes it easier to find a moving subject. A 10x pair shows more detail at distance, but every small hand movement is magnified too.
Above 12x, handheld viewing gets shaky. That is why our high power binoculars and zoom models are best used on a tripod.
What does the lens size change?
A bigger front lens means a brighter image and a heavier pair. Divide the lens size by the magnification to get the exit pupil: 42 / 10 gives 4.2 mm, 50 / 10 gives 5 mm. The larger that number, the better the view holds up in low light.
- 21 to 32 mm: pocket and travel pairs, ideal in daylight.
- 42 mm: the all-round size, see our 10x42 binoculars.
- 50 mm and up: dawn, dusk and night sky, see our 10x50 binoculars.
Roof or Porro prism, BAK4 or BK7?
Roof prisms give straight, slim barrels; Porro prisms give the classic offset shape. Both work well. The glass inside matters more: BAK4 prisms deliver a fully round exit pupil and brighter edges than BK7. Each product page lists the prism type in its spec table.
Waterproof or water-resistant?
Check the IP rating, not the word on the box. IPX4 means splash-resistant, fine for light rain. IPX7 means the pair is rated for immersion up to 1 m (3.3 ft) for 30 minutes. Every pair in our waterproof binoculars collection is rated IPX7.
Frequently asked questions
What do the numbers on binoculars mean?
The first number is the magnification and the second is the diameter of each front lens in millimeters. A 10x42 pair makes objects look 10 times closer through 42 mm lenses. Dividing the second number by the first gives the exit pupil, a quick guide to how bright the image stays in low light.
What magnification is best for general use?
For everyday use, 8x or 10x. An 8x pair is steadier and easier to aim, which helps with birds and sports. A 10x pair shows more detail at distance. If you are unsure, an 8x42 or 10x42 is the safest first purchase.
Do I need a tripod for binoculars?
Not for 8x or 10x. From about 12x, small hand movements start to blur the view, and above 15x a tripod makes a clear difference. Zoom binoculars and large astronomy models are designed to be used on one.
Is it safe to look at the sun with binoculars?
No. Never point binoculars at the sun, even for a moment, and keep them away from children near a sunset. Magnified sunlight can cause permanent eye damage. Use a certified solar filter made for binoculars if you want to observe the sun.