|
 |
|
|
Testimonials
"My Heartwood Ashley birdhouse is so beautiful and the
quality is excellent. Thank you so much." Sandi, Atlanta
"Thanks in advance, you have great customer service, feels
like doing business with friends." Lynette, New York.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Articles & Resources
Bird watching can be one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences, but it can also be the most frustrating. The first challenge is to simply find the bird. Then, you must be able to follow its rapid movements through the trees or across a field.
Binoculars that work well for boaters, hikers or hunters won't necessarily be the best for birding. Look for a pair with a bright image to help distinguish subtle features, particularly in dim light. Also, being able to focus them quickly is a must.
Here are a few tips that will help you select the right pair of binoculars for a successful bird watching adventure.
Tip 1: Image quality and field of view
A good pair of birding binoculars must have a good field of view because birds move fast. Those that have a larger ratio between the magnification (first number) and the objective lens size will always give a sharper, brighter image than ones with a smaller ratio. (For instance, 8 x 42 provides a brighter image than an 8 x 32.)
The higher the second number, the brighter the image. A higher second number will also exhibit greater clarity and better dim light performance.
Tip 2: Magnification
Most binoculars will have 7, 8 or 10 power magnification. A higher number isn't always better. Most birders feel that 7 or 8 power is a good choice. Opinions against the 10 power binoculars are that the higher the magnification, the smaller the field of view and any shaking of the hands will be magnified.
Tip 3: Weight
Typical standard-sized birding binoculars will range from 20 to 35 ounces. Reasonably light weight is good, but don't let the weight be the determining factor. A heavier model is often helpful for steadier viewing. Binoculars weigh just a fraction of what your arms weigh. It's the weight of your arms rather than the weight of the binoculars that tires you out. A wide neck strap or harness will make carrying them easier.
Tip 4: Focusing
The two basic types of focus systems are center and individual. For birding binoculars, center focusing is the most common and convenient and typically the most preferred, as both eyepieces can be focused at the same time. A separate diopter adjustment on one eyepiece (usually the right one) helps to compensate for differences in the strength of each eye. An acceptable minimum focus distance is 18 to 20 feet, but many birders prefer models with a closer focus of 8 to 13 feet.
Tip 5: Eye Relief
The distance behind the binocular eyepiece at which the entire field of view is clearly visible is known as eye relief. This is a very important specification for those who wear eyeglasses or sunglasses. This distance can vary from as little as 5mm to as much as 23mm. Most current models feature fold-down rubber eyecups so eyeglass wearers can bring the binoculars in closer to the eyes to significantly improve viewing. Some models have what's known as long eye relief for those without the need for glasses, but they do not have a particularly wide field of view. Decide which feature is most important before making a purchase.
Tip 6: Price
You get what you pay for. For many this may be a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, so spend as much as you can afford. You will never regret purchasing high quality binoculars. Take your time to make the right decision by asking experienced birders to express their pros and cons. Visit a store that sells a variety of brands to ask questions and compare the statistics in the first four tips. After making a decision, check the prices with reputable companies on the Internet and read customer reviews. Quite often the prices will be lower.
Tip 7: Zoom Binoculars
In general, zoom binoculars have a host of problems that can't be easily overcome. Fixed-power binoculars, of similar price, will always out-perform the zoom variety. At low power the view is almost half that of the fixed-power. At high power the image quality is not as good and is likely poorly merged. Similar fixed-power binoculars offer as much magnification as you can steadily hold and the image quality will be far superior.
Tip 8: Involve the Kids!
Kids who show an interest in birding at an early age should be encouraged to join in the fun. Gift them with terrific kid-size binoculars that are designed with smaller features for little hands. This is a wonderful way for children to not only enjoy nature but to make it a special bonding time with parents and siblings.
The chosen binoculars are now in your hands. Get comfortable with them. Practice before that first big birding adventure. Follow birds leaving your feeder to develop a feel for the speed of flight and the quickly changing focus. It's awe inspiring. Tune in and enjoy!
|
|
|
|