Binoculars and Handlens questions

[Lancashire Lad]

Originally Posted by MetalMoth

....I am not sure now which would be best for me. Magnification is important to me to get a good view of things but use in low lighting is also an issue.

There's no doubt that with two pairs of binoculars of same objective lens size, from the same manufacturer and model range, that the lower magnification model would appear to have a brighter field of view, and would perform better in low light situations.

The exit pupil of a pair of 10 x40's is 4mm, whereas the exit pupil of a pair of 8 x 40's is 5mm

The nearer to 7mm, (the generally accepted optimal exit pupil size relative to human eye), that can be attained, the brighter the field of view.

As for magnification, a reasonably steadily held pair of 8 x40's would provide more detail than a less steadily held pair of 10 x 40's.

I'd suggest trying both magnifications as a side by side comparison test (perhaps at a local store - even if you didn't buy there and then), before making any decision as to which would be best for your particular needs.

Regards,
Mike.

[MetalMoth]

Thanks for your advice everyone, really is much appreciated. I have done a lot of reading on the matter and decided to go for the 8x magnification. The main reasons are: better in low light, less hand shake effects, wider field of view and not a great deal more magnification difference in the 10x. I could see going from 8 to 12 would be quite noticeable but I am not sure 8 to 10 will show up on someone like me who is using binoculars for the first time. I reckon 8 is enough for me to ID and see all the birds I want to.

[Hobjob]

Originally Posted by MetalMoth

First off what do people think about these bino's? :

Bushnell Natureview 22-1042 - Binoculars 10 x 42: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics

I am looking to buy some binoculars for the first time and am willing to spend around £100. How good do you think these will be? I am a relatively experienced bird watcher and recently have been using my girlfriends Hawke binoculars which were great.

Where is the best place to buy a good handlens?

Thanks.

Having read the thread I would advise, as others, not to buy x10 Bins.
There is far too much shake for anyone not used to using goodish binoculars for a few years. You also have to learn to bring the Bins up to your eyes and be straight onto your target - thhis is also easier with x8.

IMO you would do far better to try and afford the cheaper Hawkes than Bushnells which are the lower end of the range. I tried Hawkes at the Bird Fair, and have used a mates - outstanding value for money. Bushnells are acceptable at best.

I bought a combined x10 and x20 this year. Cost about £19.00. x20 is smallish, but fine for the purpose. sorry can't find the supplier.

I also bought from a botanist who was selling then for £7.50, a x10 hand lens with an LED. On a cloudy day and in woods it is brilliant and if you can find one on the web I would highly recommend the light.

[MetalMoth]

Too late I already ordered the Bushnell's! The Hawke's are a bit out of my price range to be honest. I am sure they will be fine for me, I have used Bushnell's before and they were ok. Also I am no binocular fanatic so won't notice! Thanks for the advice though.

[nightshade]

There is a highly recommended Hand Lens on Alana Ecology Hand Lenses